Ripon Farm Services: On Track - Issue 2

ON TRACK

THE RIPON FARM SERVICES MAGAZINE

Welcome to the second issue of the Ripon Farm Services magazine, created to keep you and your business On Track with the latest news from Ripon Farm Services and the latest innovations from our industry leading manufacturers.

We marked the start of the year with the 20th anniversary of our Ripon Farm Services Show at the Yorkshire Event Centre in Harrogate. Thank you to all those who joined us for another successful event, it was great to see so many of you there and to catch up with customers old and new.

In March we announced my appointment as CEO, as Geoff Brown MBE transitions to Chairman. The change marks a significant step for the business and puts us on course to ensure that the next 40 years are as successful as the previous 40.

We are looking forward to the remainder of the year with lots of exciting updates to come. John Deere are known for their cutting-edge machinery with groundbreaking technology and earlier this year they unveiled the new 9RX Tractor and state-of-the-art S7 Combine Harvester. Stay tuned for more exciting product announcements ahead!

We hope to see you at some of the agricultural shows in the next few months and, as we embark on summertime, we wish you all the best for harvest 2024.

With thanks for your continued Support,

Richard Simpson, CEO

John Deere Introduces New Combines!

John Deere has launched several new combine models – machines designed to deliver increased efficiency with the latest John Deere engines and higher productivity through advanced harvesting automation. They feature new cabs, styling and names, plus integrated advanced precision agriculture features, offering a wide range of the leading technology already tried and trusted in the John Deere X9 combines.

Harvesting Performance

The new combines are equipped with the latest generation JDX engines. The field-proven John Deere engines deliver strong results across all harvesting conditions. Notably, the JD14X engine with HarvestMotionTM achieves maximum power at a reduced engine speed of just 2000 RPM. In addition, the new S7 adopts the X9 “Xcel” residue management system to further enhance overall efficiency. The unloading auger also comes with the adjustable spout which can be controlled from the cab for easier and more accurate filling of the trailer. The T Series range features 8 new models, with increases in grain tank capacity, engine power, unloading rates, as well as the new cab from the X9 range.

Advanced Harvesting Automation

The S and X combines pave the way for future farming by offering full, true harvest automation through optional technology packages that include automation solutions such as Harvest Settings Automation, where automatic adjustments of five internal combine settings take place during harvest; based on grain loss, foreign material, and broken grain limits. Also new to the range is Predictive Ground Speed Automation. This predictive system senses the crop through several different sources, including satellite biomass maps and live automation camera feedback. This uses live camera feedback to detect crop height and/or down crop to further adjust the ground speed in real-time.

New Cab and Integrated Precision Ag Capabilities

The new cab features the G5Plus CommandCenter™, enabling AutoTracTM, AutoTracTM Turn Automation, Documentation, and DataSync. Additionally, a new high-definition corner post display with a user-friendly interface and digital readouts of combine performance enhances the overall operator experience. The integrated StarFire™ receiver ensures exceptional signal stability and 2.5cm pass-to-pass accuracy. The integrated precision agriculture capabilities are complimented by JDLink™, providing two-way connectivity for automatic uploading of crop and machine data to the John Deere Operations Center™ and for remote monitoring in real-time.

This connectivity is essential for maximising uptime during harvest. It even has a massaging seat!

For more information on John Deere Combines contact our Harvesting Manager, Ben Moseley at ben.moseley@riponfarmservices.com

Get to know...

Richard Simpson, CEO

In March, we announced the appointment of Richard Simpson as our CEO, as Geoff Brown MBE transitions to Chairman. Richard comes from a farming background and originally joined the company three years ago as Commercial Director. We sat down with Richard to ask him 10 questions, 5 about the company and 5 about himself, and here’s what we learned...

1. What are the values of the company?

“Putting people (our staff and customers) first; integrity; service; innovation; and trust. These have been present since Geoff founded the company, we’ve pulled them together and put a badge on them so we all know.”

2. What are the top priorities for the company in the coming year?

“Ensure we stay on top of a very challenging market situation whilst at the same time creating an environment where our staff feel safe and happy and be rewarded for what they do. Aspire to providing the very best customer service. All this is work in progress and we still have lots of improvements to make. However, as long as we are better today than we were yesterday, that’s progress. Selfbelief is crucial.”

3. What does the future of the business look like?

“Despite the current challenging economic conditions, Ripon has a bright future, our potential is yet untapped. We have a wonderful customer base and our partnership with the world-class John Deere in particular means we sell the finest agricultural machinery in the UK. Over time, we will also be looking at strategic expansion but for now our focus must be on thriving in the current market conditions.”

4. What are the biggest challenges your business is facing today?

“The biggest challenge is to help our customers to understand how useful (and cost effective) the new technology is in helping them to be more profitable. Farming is a traditional industry, but it is vital the sector embraces change. This year, the weather is proving to be a challenge, which makes technology and the efficiency it brings even more valuable.”

5. How do you think the industry will change in the coming years?

“The pace of technological innovation will revolutionise the industry and create some amazing state-of-the-art machinery, saving money and time. But our key values of customer service, providing value for money and looking after our staff will remain the same.”

6. Your favourite musician or band?

“I love music and play the piano and drums. My favourite band is the incomparable Rush (you will not have heard of them!), and I was distraught when drummer Neil Peart passed away in 2020.”

7. What are your Hobbies?

“Cricket is my passion. One of the most unforgettable times of my life was training with the West Indies team in Adelaide, Australia in 1988. Bowling to Sir Viv Richards in the nets was intimidating. My run up was the same length as Malcolm Marshall’s, so we chatted a lot, a wonderful man, who is my ultimate cricketing hero.”

8. What is your favourite book?

“This is an easy one. Long Walk To Freedom by Nelson Mandela. I read it in two sittings. I remain in awe about how someone who was imprisoned for 27 years can emerge with enough strength and courage to transform his country. What a leader.”

9. What is your favourite film?

“This is more difficult. I love films where the all-powerful, unstoppable baddies cop it, so it has to be the Equalizer films starring Denzel Washington. I love the sentiment of standing up for the little guy. Probably because I was bullied at school.”

10. What are you most proud of?

“My family. I have been married to my wife Sarah for 37 years and we have two children, James, who is a Porsche salesman, and Hannah, who is a solicitor. All 3 of them are “on it” and super talented. Puts me to shame really!”

T he ne w 5M

The one for every T hing

Great just got better. The new 5M Series tractors deliver the same renowned diesel-only performance and the same unwavering reliability as the previous Series. A brand-new array of controls and features have been introduced that make them more powerful and more efficient to operate than ever before. Talk to your dealer, you’ll love the test drive.

NOTHING RUNS LIKE A DEERE

CUSTOMER TESTIMONIAL

Competitive Conversion: Unmatched reliability with Kramer

When East Yorkshire farmer, Angus Wielkopolski bought his first Kramer back in 2019, little did he know that the Kramer product would soon become a major brand in his front line of machinery.

Angus, who had always run a fleet of JCBs across his two Yorkshire sites, bought a Kramer KT357 Telehandler in 2019 following the brand’s split with Claas. Angus was impressed with the performance and pleasantly surprised by comparison with what he was used to, so it was no surprise that when the other machines in his fleet came up for renewal that Kramer was in the running.

Angus comments “I was really impressed with the transmission and how well the Kramer puts the engine power through to the wheels. It makes light work of heavy loads, 15 tons of bales on a trailer and it effortlessly pulls it away. They are comparable with other brands cost wise, but more efficient and reliable in my experience.”

Based on Angus’ experience with his initial KT357 he went on to order five new Kramers in late 2022, including two KT457s, two KT407s and one KT276, from Thomas Pickering, Area Sales Manager at our Ottringham branch.

From the left: Tom Pickering, Sales Manager (Ottringham branch) with farmer Angus Wielkopolski with one of his Kramer KT457s.

“I was really impressed with the transmission and how well the Kramer puts the engine power through to the wheels. It makes light work of heavy loads, 15 tons of bales on a trailer and it effortlessly pulls it away.”

We’re now just over one year on since Angus took delivery of the first of his new Kramers and he remains as impressed with the brand. The first machine has done just over 1000 hours in the year without any niggles or warranty issues. The service and backup are supported by the Ripon Farm Services’ Ottringham branch and Angus passed on his thanks to the team there, especially to Luke in the workshop who has provided a rapid service to ensure that Angus’ machines are back up and running as fast as possible. “Machines are serviced in no time at all, they come and take the machine away from the farm, service it in their workshop and it’s back on the farm within half a day. No machine is better than the backup behind it and the backup is brilliant” comments Angus.

He goes on to say “They’re not the cheapest but the build quality is great, the machines are robust and reliable with little to no down time, it makes the customer experience a positive one. I would never dare run any other front-line machines out of warranty, I can’t afford the down time, but I might just be prepared to run these Kramer’s out of warranty. When a product consistently performs well and meets expectations it builds trust and loyalty, and it’s safe to say that the quality and reliability are really coming through.”

Area Sales Manager, Thomas Pickering comments “We understand the importance of keeping farmers going, it’s critical that efficiency is at a maximum and down time is at a minimum. Reliability isn’t just about functionality, it often translates to peace of mind for the user, knowing they can rely on the product when they need it most.”

The Kramer brand stands out in today’s market for robustness and longevity. From the start, the toughest applications were the measure of all things in the development of Kramer telehandlers; the machines are consistently designed for robustness and reliability which is now shining through in customer feedback.

Sturdy ~ Reliable ~ Efficient ~ Versatile.

To find out more about which Kramer model best suits your operation, contact your local Sales Manager today.

Kramer Spotlight

We have a selection of new and used Kramer Telehandlers and Wheeled Loaders in stock. Take a glimpse at four of our favourites below or browse the full range on our website at www.riponfarmservices.com

KRAMER

KL14.5 Wheeled Loader

Stock Number: B1123772

Complete with heater, radio, adjustable steering column, 2 x front & 2 x rear worklights, Continental 315/55R16 bi-directional utilities tread tyres, beacon, load stabiliser.

KRAMER

KT557 Telehandler

Stock Number: 51131519

40K Ecospeed, air seat, air conditioning, pick up hitch with mirror, hydraulic trailer brakes, reversing camera & alarm, load stabiliser, boom scraper, power train cover, 500/70R24 Michelin tyres, 3 Years/3000hr warranty

KRAMER

KL55.8T Wheeled Loader

Stock Number: E1131272

40K Ecospeed, air seat, air conditioning, cabin & rear window heating, radio, load stabiliser, reversing camera, reversible fan, Volvo quick hitch, 500/70 R24 Firestone Duraforce Tyres, 3 Years/3000 Hr. warranty

KRAMER

KT144 Telehandler

Stock Number: C1136384

Complete with air seat, adjustable steering column, 2x LED front work lights, 1x LED rear work light, reversible fan, 31/15.5-15 Mitas tyres, hydraulic quick hitch, 2 Years/2000 Hr. warranty

0% finance available on ALL Kramer stock. Terms and conditions apply. Contact your local Sales Manager for more information.

There is a Kramer telehandler or wheeled loader for every job Whether you’re stacking, loading, or transporting, every job can be done quickly, efficiently and reliably with a Kramer Contact your local Sales Manager for more information on the Kramer range

01765 692255

40 Year Switch: The S Series Combine Performs

Andrew Burden is a third-generation farmer on his family farm just outside Rotherham, South Yorkshire. This is where S & R Burden Agricultural Contractors operate from, providing a variety of services including combining, grass production and cultivation methods.

After 40 years of owning and running Class Lexion combine harvesters, Andrew Burden of S & R Burden Agricultural Contractors, switched to a John Deere S Series Combine. We caught up with Andrew to find out what inspired the change and whether he’s happy with his decision…

What factors led you to choose a John Deere Combine Harvester?

“We have always run Claas Lexion combines and got on really well with them, but the Lexion struggled with the linseed crop in harvest 2022 so I had to try something different. I got in touch with Matt Smith, Area Sales Manager at Ripon Farm Services to arrange a demo of a John Deere combine. I was specifically interested in the S series because of the output and it took to the linseed really well. The price was right, and we got a good deal.”

What was your first impression using the John Deere S Series Combine?

“The combine arrived in the yard first thing on a Saturday morning and we had it cutting by 10am. The big grain tank is noticeable, the S Series can hold a full trailer load so we’re working more efficiently and cutting out any waiting time. No one can say that John Deere combines aren’t luxurious, it’s a nice place to spend your day.”

Tell us about the technology on the S Series Combine

“It’s quite easy to forget how to use all of the technology on your combine because you only use it for so many weeks of the year, but because we have run John Deere tractors for a long time now we are familiar with the technology and regularly use the John Deere Operations Center to manage our fleet. Being familiar with the technology means it’s really easy to set the combine up and it’s brilliant to be able to use all of the technology available on the machine. My favourite feature is the ICA2 camera system, because we like to cut clean, we don’t want any losses, it’s brilliant!” says Andrew.

ICA2 automatically controls the level of broken kernels and precisely maintains grain losses to pre-set limits. It uses two cameras compared to similar systems, which only use one.

We’re one year on from you taking delivery of your S Series Combine, what’s the verdict?

“It’s the first combine I’ve had where there haven’t been any niggles, which is a big thing. Apart from its routine service, it hasn’t needed a mechanic at all – and last year was hard on combines with the amount of laid crops. I’m impressed with it, it does what it says on the tin, it got on well and got harvest done”.

Is there anything else you’d like to add about your experiences with the S Series Combine?

‘We’ve always got on really well with the Claas Lexion, had it not been for the linseed problems we wouldn’t have considered changing, but linseed aside we are happy we made the switch.” Browse our stock of combines on our website at www.riponfarmservices.com.

The Restorer relieves compaction & ground damage caused by previous operations, restoring ground prior to cultivation or drilling operations. It has the ability to be front and rear mounted to suit all possible requirements in the arable calendar.

The low disturbance cutting discs and points cause minimal surface ground disturbance.

The Restorer can be used as a front mounted unit with rear mounted drilling rig or rear mounted as a single pass machine with option of rear packer and/or seeding equipment.

What does Jamie Robson, Assistant Farm Manager at Thoresby Farming think?

Thoresby Farming farm 2000 Hectares, consisting of potatoes, carrots, onions, sugar beet, AD Maize and a variety of combinable crops. They are based in Nottinghamshire in the middle of Sherwood Forest, stretching around 35 miles.

What factors led you to choose the Ryetec Restorer?

“We chose the Ryetec Restorer based on a few factors to be honest. We had a fantastic demonstration, nothing was too much trouble. The British build quality looked to be great; strong and reliable for the job in hand. The Restorer has a much stronger frame than competitors, with 2 pivot points per wing within the frame to reduce flex and strengthen overall. It is closer coupled than similar machines which makes easier pulling, with less moving parts and hydraulic functions required. The legs being able to move slightly side to side aids in-frame stress, along with a helping hand on slight corners - this is a great feature.”

What specific benefits have you observed since using the Restorer?

“As this was a new journey to mainly establish our AD Maize crops, we have benefited from reduced operations and retaining moisture which is critical at that time of year within the seed bed. Carrying all the traffic at harvest time, as the soil structure is loose underneath providing good rooting, but also leaving good structure in the surface to help through harvest, this is helped by Metcalfe’s design with our legs. The machine is versatile with all the different options available.”

Can you quantify the impact the Restorer has had on your business? E.g cost savings, efficiency savings.

“The one crop that we mainly bought the restorer for is AD Maize. We have reduced operations by 1 or 2 passes post drilling, saving us time, moisture and getting land ready in the ideal conditions which has made us more efficient. We have very little compaction as the drill is following the tool bar, therefore the crop hopefully has everything in its favour to thrive.”

Would you recommend the Restorer to others? If so, why?

“I would highly recommend the Ryetec Restorer for its build quality and workmanship. The user friendliness and ease of use for any operator changes in the field makes the working day a little easier.

For more information, contact your local Area Sales Manager.

The New John Deere G5

Displays

With a John Deere display, you get clear feedback on the performance of your equipment. At Ripon Farm Services we have options that deliver the data to help you grow your business.

We understand that requirements differ, so there are a range of displays and activation levels available. Options include universal displays that can be moved between equipment or integrated, offering improved security.

G5 Displays

The G5 display series provides farmers with several options designed to view and adjust machine information and use precision technology across their business. G5 displays build on the Gen4 displays ease of use and functionality by offering:

• Clearer brighter HD screens and images for improved visibility of maps and information

• Redesigned run pages created with customer feedback

• Larger maps and more information without changing run pages

• Increased processing power for faster boot times, imports and responsiveness

G5 CommandCenter / G5 Universal

• 10.1 inch touch screen

• AutoTrac, Section Control and Advanced Licenses are optional

• ISObus VT

• 12.8 inch touch screen

• AutoTrac, Section Control are standard, Advanced License is optional

• ISObus VT

The G5 Plus Extended Monitor is compatible with the G5 CommandCenter, G5 plus CommandCenter and the G5 plus Universal Display.

G5 CommandCenter / G5 Universal Plus Plus Contact our Technology team to find out more about John Deere G5 Displays technology@riponfarmservices.com

07700 152217

“How To”: Setting up a prescription map with your Gen 4 or G5 Display

No two fields are the same and once we know the differences, together we can help build yields. With this objective in mind, variable rate allows fields to be zoned to allow tailored activity. Issues such as soil type and drainage can be analysed, and corrective action can be taken to deliver the correct levels of seed or fertiliser to improve yields. The result is maximum productivity.

Variable Rate control can offer a number of benefits, including:

• Optimises input distribution according to the yield potential of each zone

• Applies precisely the right number of seed, fertiliser or crop protection product

• Ensures consistent growing conditions

• Easy set-up with John Deere Operations Center

We will take you step-by-step through “how to” set up a prescription map with your displays, whether its

Step 1: Receiving your prescription

Receive your prescription from either your agronomist, or set up the prescription yourself.

Step 2: Setting up your prescription

To input the prescription into the tractor, you can use one of two methods, either manually inputting it into the tractor via USB or pushing the prescription wirelessly through John Deere Operations Center.

1. To do this, you need to put the prescription shape files in an RX folder on the root drive on your memory/USB stick.

2. Insert your USB into the tractor, the tractor should recognise the USB and ask what to do with it. Click “Import data”.

3. Select “Import from USB drive” then click “Next”.

4. Ensure the folder is selected and click “Next”.

5. Select the prescription via the tick box, and click “Import”.

6. A dialogue box should then appear with the message “Data Successfully imported”, confirming the manual import process is complete.

1. Firstly, ensure your files are in a zipped file.

2. In the Ops Center, click “More” along the top header, then select “Files” from the dropdown menu.

3. Once this takes you through to the page, select the yellow “Upload Files” button on the right hand side of the page.

4. This should then bring up a dialogue box where you can upload your files. Click the “Choose files to upload” button.

5. Select the zipped folder from you files and click “Open” at the bottom of the dialogue box.

6. This should take you back to the previous dialogue box, where you will be able to see your zipped file. Click “Upload”.

7. This will take you back to the previous window. Select the tick box on the left hand side then click “Transfer to Equipment”.

8. This will bring up a dialogue box to select your JD Link enabled tractor from the list of machines. Once you have, click “Transfer” at 9. This will take you back to the previous window, where the message should say “Operator has imported the file” under the “Status” column.

THIS COMBINATION CULTIVATOR IS USED FOR BOTH SHALLOW MIXING AND DEEP CULTIVATION IN ONE SINGLE PASS. WORKING IN THIS WAY MINIMISES FUEL AND LABOUR COSTS WHILST CREATING A MORE SUPPORTED SOIL STRUCTURE.

www.sumo1.com | sales@sumo1.com | 01759 319900

Join the John Deere Junior Club

John Deere have recently launched the John Deere Junior Club in the UK.

You can register children up to the age of 12 years to join the Junior Club through the John Deere website. Whilst registering, you can choose Ripon Farm Services as your preferred dealer from the dealer locator.

All registered children receive the club magazine “Junior Club News”, which is directly sent to your home. The children will also receive a birthday card, with which they can collect a birthday present at the dealer you have chosen during registration.

You and your children can look forward to lots of fun, games, craft ‘templates’, videos and exciting information about agricultural machinery and small, exclusive gifts from John Deere - all free of charge! Just register and you’re ready to go!

Scan the QR code to register your children today:

In the Spotlight: Ripon Farm Services in Lincolnshire & Nottinghamshire

Following the acquisition of RBM Agricultural back in 2019, Ripon Farm Services took ownership of branches in North Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire.

Retford

Mark Curtis joined the Ripon family in November 2022. After a short while with us, Mark has taken on the role of Regional Manager for Region 3, covering our branches in Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire.

Mark brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise from his career in the agricultural industry.

Regional Manager for Retford, Brigg & Louth branches

Nestled between Retford and Gainsborough, the Ripon Farm Services Retford branch serves a diverse clientele spanning Nottinghamshire, Lincolnshire, Yorkshire, and Derbyshire. At our Retford branch, you’ll find all the latest in commercial turf and ground care machinery – as well as agricultural machinery and parts.

Clarborough Hill, Clarborough, Retford, Nottinghamshire, DN22 9EA 01777 704823

Key people at our Retford branch:

Area Sales Manager

Matt Smith

Area Sales Manager

Carol Preston Service Manager

Wil Sykes Parts Manager

Andrew Hunt

Mark Curtis

Brigg

Our Brigg branch, in North Lincolnshire, is equipped with an RTK base station and network, offering unparalleled in-field precision to our Lincolnshire customers. Along with our range of agricultural machinery, we offer the latest in commercial turf and ground care machinery.

Westrum Lane, Brigg, North Lincolnshire, DN20 9EY 01652 650600

Key people at our Brigg branch:

Louth

The Ripon Farm Services Louth branch, established in 2009 and conveniently located on the Fairfield Industrial Estate near the A16, quickly became known for its exceptional service and expertise. At Louth, we offer all the latest in commercial turf and ground care machinery, as well as agricultural machinery and parts.

19 Bolingbroke Road, Fairfield Industrial Estate, Louth, East Lincolnshire, LN11 0WA 01507 617588

Key people at our Louth branch:

Jez Clare

Adam Thompson

Manager

Simon Stubbings

Manager

Jonathon Clarke Area Sales Manager

Jack Fox Service Manager

David Broome Parts Manager

Richard Smith

Nurturing Expertise: Inside the John Deere Certified Dealer Technician Programme

For decades, John Deere has not only provided high quality equipment but has also invested in cultivating expertise to ensure its customers receive the best service possible. The Agricultural and Turf industries are constantly evolving, with advancements in technology that is central to our success, now and in the future. The Certified Dealer Technician Programme by John Deere supports our Technicians with a comprehensive training initiative aimed at equipping our Technicians with the skills and knowedge neccessary to maintain and repair John Deere Equipment to the highest standards.

Why is the Certified Dealer Technician Programme different?

The John Deere Certified Dealer Technician Programme is designed to be hands-on, allowing technicians to familiarise themselves with the equipment that they will be working on. This practical approach not only enhances learning but also instils confidence in technicians to tackle real-world challenges that they may encounter in the field.

The programme encourages technicians to stay abreast with the latest trends and technologies and to hone their skills with industry certifications through participation in specialised training. Technicians not only learn from seasoned instructors and experienced colleagues but also from their peers, exchanging insights and best practises that build their knowledge base. Through the programme, our technicians gain the confidence and skills to provide superior service to our customers.

This programme ensures that our technicians are kept up-to-date with the latest advancements in John Deere equipment through regular training sessions and refresher courses. The course recognises that our employees have different career paths, backgrounds and interests and the Certified Dealer Technician Programme brings together their skills and experience to equip them with the specialised training they need to handle the intricasies of John Deere machinery effiency.

Are you looking for a new opportunity with your career?

The route to being a Certified Dealer Technician is varied. The Certified Dealer Technician Programme covers a wide range of topics essential for servicing John Deere equipment. If you come from a mechanical engineering background and have an interest in engine diagnostics, hydraulic systems or eletricial troubleshooting to software updates, we may be able to support you in a new career path working with John Deere machinery.

Delivering Excellence in Service

Ultimately, it is our goal at Ripon Farm Services with the support of the John Deere Certified Dealer Technician Programme to deliver excellence in service to customers. By investing in the training and development of our technicians, it ensures your equipment is maintained to the highest standards, minimising downtime and maximising your productivity.

As a result, we believe that customers can trust their John Deere equipment is in capable hands of Ripon Farm Services technicians, allowing them to focus on what they do best.

Certified Dealer Technician Graduates

We caught up with 3 technicians who have completed the programme. Here’s what they have to say:

Oliver Blackwell, Keighley Branch

Length of time at RFS: 8 years

Previous Employment: RFS, Started in the parts department at our Keighley branch It has always been Oliver’s passion to work in the workshop, so when he left college and saw a job in Parts at the Keighley branch come up, he knew it would be a way into a dealership, so he jumped at the opportunity as a stepping stone into the workshop.

Oliver completed the Certified Technician course on 22nd April 2024. As part of the course, Oliver spent time at our Ripon and Keighley branches and at John Deere’s UK Headquarters at Langar, Nottinghamshire.

“My transition from parts to workshop was fairly smooth, and I felt really supported by Ripon Farm Services and John Deere throughout the whole experience. It is a very good course. It’s very educational and it has really opened my eyes”

“I love being in the workshop, especially when working on forage harvesters. Now I have qualified, I will be doing more on grass equipment and ground care.”

What next? “I’d like to do additional courses so I can be a master technician. Having started in Parts, it has given me a number of transferable skills, like customer service, computer skills and telephone manners. I feel these can help me with moving forward”

Chris Spensley, Keighley Branch

Length of time at RFS: 1 year, 2 months

Previous Employment: 9 years at Claas, 18 months at Carrs Billington

Chris joined the Ripon family after deciding he needed a change of environment following his previous role. He approached RFS and in just over a year, he has completed the John Deere Certified Technician programme. The programme involved a combination of in-person training at John Deere HQ in Langar and web-based training.

Chris says “I can’t fault it, it’s a good team of people here. The team at RFS have been really good, if you want to do it the support is there. I would encourage people to do the programme if you have a mechanical mind and you like fixing things, the skills are very interchangeabale between industries. John Deere has a system called Service Advisor and the information it contains is amazing and is one of the best in the industry. “

What next? “Product specialism. I’m here to be a forager and Kramer specialist at Keighley so specific product training will allow me to develop that specialism.”

Length of time at RFS: 1 year, 6 months

Previous Employment: Out of Industry

Lewis previously worked outside of the agricultural industry, firstly working as an apprentice bus mechanic and then moving to Yorkshire Generators as a mechanic there. Lewis has always been interested in tractors, receiving ‘Classic Tractor’ magazine at home. He’s always loved John Deere especially, so when he was looking for an opportunity in the agricultural industry, Ripon Farm Services was his number one choice.

“I found my transition from outside the industry really good, some parts were a little confusing at times but the support was always there and overall it was a very positive experience. I really enjoyed the visits down to John Deere at Langar, they were really helpful.”

What next? Lewis enjoys working on large agricultural machinery but he does want to move into product specialism, then progress to the Master Technician course.

If you are interested in the opportunity to become a Certified Dealer Technician and becoming part of the Ripon Family, we would love to hear from you - Email recruitment@riponfarmservices.com

Lewis Hodkin, Darrington Branch

Clothing & Toy Gift Ideas

MCS1003000

John Deere Adult’s Bib & Brace Overalls Sizes XS-XXXL

£54.50

MC130200BK

John Deere Adult’s

Black Hoodie Sizes XS-XXXL £40.00

MC13080422CH

John Deere Adult’s

Charcoal Cap One Size £17.00

MCS1001001

John Deere Adult’s Field Green Overalls Sizes 46-62 £60.00

MCEPIGED1176

MCS1001003

Children’s John

Deere Field Green

Overall Sizes 2-16

£38.00

John Deere Mini Tractor

£131.75

MCE46655X000

Build A Tractor Toy

£22.50

We have many more gifts, clothing items and toys available.

Call into your local branch to find out more or scan the QR to browse our products online!

MCPB4J056G

John Deere

Children’s Trademark Green/ Yellow Hoodie Sizes 2-16

Starting from £18.20

MCS1040910

Children’s

John Deere Pink

Overalls

Sizes 2-16

£38.00

MCE42646X000

John Deere HPX Gator

£450.00

MCE47285X000

Did

John Deere is a well-known brand in the agricultural industry, but did you know that John Deere have a first-class reputation for building exceptional quality lawn mowers too?

John Deere offer a comprehensive range of lawn mowers to cater for homeowners through to professional and commercial users. From residential ride-on lawnmowers through to large commercial and zero turn mowers, there’s a model suitable for all lawn and garden sizes.

John Deere mowers provide you with just the right mixture of strength, reliability, garden-friendly simplicity, comfort, and control. The robust machines are engineered for years of trouble-free service and combine superb cut quality with outstanding ease of use.

Here at Ripon Ground Care, we have been supplying and supporting John Deere lawnmowers for over 40 years. Whether it’s a ride-on lawn tractor, a walk-behind mower or a robotic machine you’re looking for, contact your local Ground Care Specialist today to identify the right machine for the best possible results in your garden. £5,499

Colouring Pages

Something for the John Deere Junior fans, find your colouring pencils and get creative!

John Deere 8RX730

John Deere Gator RSX860M

Tadcaster Market Weighton

Swanland

Darrington Ottringham

Ripon

Ripon

Dallamires Lane, Ripon, North Yorkshire, HG4 1TT 01765 692255

Dallamires Lane, Ripon, North Yorkshire, HG4 1TT 01765 692255

Brigg

Brigg

Westrum Lane, Brigg, North Lincolnshire, DN20 9EY 01652 650600

Westrum Lane, Brigg, North Lincolnshire, DN20 9EY 01652 650600

Darrington

Darrington

Great North Road, Darrington, Pontefract, West Yorkshire, WF8 3BW 01977 795241

Great North Road, Darrington, Pontefract, West Yorkshire, WF8 3BW 01977 795241

Keighley

Keighley

Retford

Langworth

Langworth

Station Road, Langworth, Lincolnshire, LN3 5BB 01522 596960

Station Road, Langworth, Lincolnshire, LN3 5BB 01522 596960

Leyburn

Leyburn

Leyburn Auction Mart, Richmond Road, Leyburn, North Yorkshire, DL8 5DP 01969 621369

Leyburn Auction Mart, Richmond Road, Leyburn, North Yorkshire, DL8 5DP 01969 621369

Louth

Louth

19 Bolingbroke Road, Fairfield Industrial Estate, Louth, East Lincolnshire, LN11 0WA 01507 617588

19 Bolingbroke Road, Fairfield Industrial Estate, Louth, East Lincolnshire, LN11 0WA 01507 617588

Malton

Visit or contact one of our local branches and meet our friendly team who are always ready to help you.

Ottringham

Ottringham

Station Road, Ottringham, Hull, HU12 0BJ 01964 622351

Station Road, Ottringham, Hull, HU12 0BJ 01964 622351

Retford

Retford

Clarborough Hill, Retford, Nottinghamshire, DN22 9EA 01777 704823

Clarborough Hill, Retford, Nottinghamshire, DN22 9EA 01777 704823

Stockton

Stockton

Willow Bridge Works, Carlton, Stockton on Tees, Teesside, TS21 1EB 01740 630254

Willow Bridge Works, Carlton, Stockton on Tees, Teesside, TS21 1EB 01740 630254

Swanland

Swanland

Dalesgate Works, Kildwick, Keighley, North Yorkshire, BD20 7BX 01535 632661

Malton

Dalesgate Works, Kildwick, Keighley, North Yorkshire, BD20 7BX 01535 632661

Unit 14, Eden Business Park, Old Malton, North Yorkshire, YO17 6AP 01653 695094

Unit 14, Eden Business Park, Old Malton, North Yorkshire, YO17 6AP 01653 695094

Market Weighton

Market Weighton

Occupation Lane, Swanland, East Yorkshire, HU14 3QZ 01482 631148

Occupation Lane, Swanland, East Yorkshire, HU14 3QZ 01482 631148

Tadcaster

Tadcaster

Holme Road, Market Weighton, York, East Yorkshire, YO43 3EW 01430 872421

Holme Road, Market Weighton, York, East Yorkshire, YO43 3EW 01430 872421

York Road, Islington, Tadcaster, North Yorkshire, LS24 8EB 01937 835454

York Road, Islington, Tadcaster, North Yorkshire, LS24 8EB 01937 835454

Supplying a wide range of equipment from these and many more franchises