As a lifelong royalist, I was personally deeply saddened by the Queen’s passing in early September. The huge outpouring of emotion across the country showed just how much she meant to people, and the two-week period of mourning and ceremony that followed marked the end of an era.
The longest reigning monarch touched the lives of millions of people all over the world, but held particular significance in our British farming and country communities. I was just eight when I first saw the Queen as a schoolboy in Chorley, on her 1977 tour, and I came up close on two other occasions, too. Her Majesty attended many traditional game shows over the years, brushing shoulders with members of the public –her personal security ever present, but always discreet.
We’re all aware of the enormous amount of charity work done by the Queen. She was patron of the Royal Association of British Dairy Farmers, the Country Land and Business Association, the National Sheep Association and Young Farmers’ Clubs, amongst others. She really was farming’s greatest supporter.
Like his mother before him, King Charles III has the countryside at heart and is a keen advocate of agricultural enterprise and rural communities. Charles has however pledged to switch his focus from environmental causes to upholding the constitutional principles his mother lived by – and live by them she did, representing our nation with honour and dedication. Queen Elizabeth II is gone, but certainly always remembered.
GED CLARKE MANAGING DIRECTOR, C&PWelcome to the 5th edition of our Tracks magazine! In this issue we have included updates from a variety of our customers to see how they are getting on with their new tractors and machinery.
As we are hurtling towards Christmas, we thought it would be apt to look at where everything on our Christmas plate comes from and the hard work and dedication that goes into its production. So, we’ve been out and about speaking to some of our local customers about what they produce and how it ends up on our plate.
2022 marks the 175th Anniversary of Massey Ferguson, so in celebration of the milestone, we took a look back at the history of the brand – how and where it all started. You can also read an update from Amy Wilkinson, our C&P ambassador and find out what
she’s been up to over the last six months, and read about how she got on with our Kverneland Bale Chopper demonstrator.
Here at C&P, we have great admiration for our staff and believe that young people in particular are the future of our industry, so we’ve included a few mini interviews with our up-and-coming staff from our Parts, Service and Marketing departments.
You will also find details about this year’s ‘Christmas at Rufford’s’ event on Saturday 3rd and Sunday 4th December!
We would like to take this opportunity to wish all of our customers and staff a very Happy Christmas and New Year.
MARKETING TEAM CLARKE & PULMAN3 CUSTOMER FOCUS: COMBINING WITH FENDT
Andrew Webster shares his thoughts on his new Fendt 5275C 6 STAFF FOCUS: THE YOUNG FACES OF C&P Meet a few of C&Ps younger employees 8 MACHINE FOCUS: MF 6S DYNA VT We talk Dyna with Ben from Bowland Pork 9 MACHINE FOCUS: JCB i CON 4220
Discover JCBs latest Fastrac – teeming with tech to improve the driving experience
175 YEARS OF MASSEY FERGUSON We take a look back at the history of Massey Ferguson brand
CUSTOMER FOCUS: THE PERFECT ROAST From field to plate, we find out what really goes in to producing your Christmas dinner staples
If you would like to appear in the next issue of TRACKS, just send us an email with details: tracks@clarkeandpulman.com
Straight from finishing cereal harvest in the third week of August, Andrew Webster of AW & MA Webster tells us how he’s found the brand-new Fendt 5275C he bought in June.
The Fendt 5275C runs on 800mm wide tyres and has a six-cylinder AGCO engine with a cubic capacity of 7.4 l for a maximum output of 306 hp.
The Webster family farm a mixture of potatoes, wheat and oats, grass and fodder beet over approximately 550 acres in Aughton, Ormskirk.
Previously, Andrew and his brother shared use of a 24-year-old DeutzFahr hired from their father. With an expanding workload to deal with, it was time for something more modern and efficient. The Fendt is smaller than the old machine, but as a new generation combine it gets the job done with a whole host of user-friendly features.
The Fendt 5275C, which runs on 800mm wide tyres, has a sixcylinder AGCO engine with a cubic capacity of 7.4 l for a maximum output of 306 hp, and is fitted with an SCR catalytic converter to drastically cut fuel consumption. It features a heavy, high inertia threshing cylinder for smooth, uniform running; a smart concave with different wire spacing for best threshing and separation results, and a multi-crop separator to ensure as much grain as possible
is separated out before the crop reaches the straw walkers.
The FreeFlow table is precisely controlled using the intelligent table guidance system, directly from the driver seat. Everything is displayed on the 10.4” Varioterminal screen, which can show up to four different applications at a time. For even greater precision control, Andrew opted to have a dedicated yield mapping system fitted. Developed by Nick Abbey Digital Agriculture, the Farm TRX Yield Monitor runs on an iPad, capturing and recording raw yield readings every two seconds.
“The computerisation makes life a lot easier – it’s very easy to use” said Andrew, who attains forward speeds of between 3 and 4 km per hour, covering 2 to 2.5 hectares per hour. Another advantage he’s found is that the machine is kind to the straw – “Since all our straw is baled and sold off, we don’t want it breaking up, and some machines completely destroy it”. As well as,
of course, the improved comfort inside the cab:
“Being a wider cab, you don’t get the glare on sunny days”, he explained. “It’s spacious, very comfortable, with excellent visibility. The air con keeps you cool, and the fridge under the passenger seat is a nice touch.”
The Fendt 5275C isn’t the first piece of kit the Websters have bought from Clarke & Pulman. They purchased the first one, a large Massey tractor, back in 2004, going on to buy three more (plus one vintage model).
The family considered several other makes before deciding upon their Fendt combine.
“We looked at quite a few makes” said Andrew, “including one other comparison machine. It was five years old and a lot more money. This one was brand new, and came with a five-year warranty. It was a deal that I just couldn’t refuse.”
From festivals and friends, to farming and fishing, we take time out with a few of the fresh-faced members of the C&P team!
MATTHEW JONES Apprentice Land based Service Engineering TechnicianI grew up on my family’s dairy farm, where I helped milk, combine, silage, and anything else that was needed, so I had a natural interest in agriculture really. It’s interesting to see behind the scenes of a working farm, and even in my role now, seeing the impact a broken down tractor can have can be huge!
Did you have any previous experience that has helped you in your current role?
What are your hobbies?
I really enjoy going to music festivals, this year I went to Boomtown with my friends, which was amazing. I also enjoy travelling and exploring new places. I often go to the pub with my mates too which is a good laugh.
Matt joined our C&P service team at our Burscough depot as a JCB apprentice in September 2020 and has already proved to be a great asset to the company.
Age: 21
Where do you come from and where do you currently live?
I was born and raised in Longton, Lancashire where I still live now.
What school / college did you go to and what did you study?
I attended Hutton Grammar School and then Runshaw college where I attained a Level 3 Diploma in Engineering. I am now in my second year of an apprenticeship to become a qualified Land Based Service Engineering Technician, which is funded by C&P, but in partnership with JCB and Reaseheath College. In my apprenticeship I have modules about all the different parts of a tractor, such as hydraulics and transmission. I enjoy college because I like meeting new people, and everyone there is really nice. The facilities at Reaseheath are also really good and high spec.
I used to work at Gore Hall Produce, where I planted crops, irrigated, transported lettuces from field to packhouse, and drove tractors. It was here that I had the chance to drive a Massey Ferguson for the first time, which I really enjoyed and has helped me in my job, because I know what everything is supposed to do when working properly.
What do you do in your day-to-day role?
Day to day I fix tractors, whether that be in the workshop or called out to farms. I diagnose problems, service machines, and much more.
Age: 23
Ali has now been at C&P for just over a year and as well as working to manage and create artwork for C&P, GTS and Rufford’s Country Lifestyle, she has progressed to assist in the creation and implementation of our ‘TRACKS’ magazine. From going out to farm to meet customers and writing up testimonials, to researching the changes in the industry.
Where do you come from and where do you currently live?
I was born and raised in Towyn on the North Wales coast, before moving to Liverpool for university. After four years in Liverpool, I now live in Southport.
What school / college did you go to and what did you study?
I went to Ysgol Bryn Elian in North Wales, where I studied from year 7 to 13, and completed my A Levels in Art, Geography, and German. I decided to study Geography at the University of Liverpool, before undertaking a master’s degree in Marketing.
Why are you interested in agriculture?
To be honest, I didn’t have an interest in agriculture before starting my job at C&P. However, I find it really interesting learning about what goes on behind the scenes. For example, when we went lambing for the last issue, I had no idea of all the science that goes on!
What jobs have you had in the past? / Experience in agriculture? Did any of them help you in your current role?
Throughout the summer holidays whilst I was at university, I worked at a café and an ice cream parlour. During my master’s, I was lucky to be offered an internship as a marketing coordinator for a business and life coach, where I learned a lot of skills that I still use every day.
In my free time I enjoy going to gigs, often in Manchester or Liverpool. I also like to draw and paint when I have time. I also enjoy going to events such as beer festivals, cricket, snooker matches, and since living in Southport, I’ve been to many of Southport FC’s home games!
Age: 22
Date Joined: February 2022
Will has been at C&P for almost 3 years, starting out at the Burscough parts department and progressing to become the Garstang Parts Manager in the summer of 2022. Will has a keen interest in Massey Ferguson and is a dab hand with anything Husqvarna.
What school / college did you go to and what did you study?
I thoroughly enjoyed my time at Tarleton Academy Secondary School, but I particularly enjoyed my experience at Runshaw College, where I completed a BTEC in Graphic design, with a focus on the history of agricultural advertising.
Why are you interested in agriculture?
Being born and raised in Hesketh Bank played a significant part in my interest, due to the rich history of agriculture in the village. I was also influenced by my own family's working farm and machinery. Our family have lived and farmed the same land in Hesketh Bank since settling here in the early 1700s, where we specialised in poultry farming, before transitioning to market gardening. Our own farm’s use of Massey Fergusons particularly sparked my interest in the MF 100 Series line.
What is your favourite tractor?
Since I am a bit of an enthusiast of the Massey Ferguson 100 Series range, it would have to be the Massey Ferguson 135!
Growing up, I was involved as much as I could be in the day-today running of my family's farm, as well as working as a farmhand for neighbouring agricultural businesses. This allowed me to gain insight into the challenges the modern farmer faces, whilst also equipping me with the knowledge of how to run a successful business. I also worked as a shop hand at my uncle’s business; Ashcroft Bespoke Engineering. I helped and assisted with projects focused on fabrication and lathe work. My time at my uncle’s business really contributed to my knowledge of operating machinery and their maintenance.
What do you do in your free time?
I go both fishing and shooting a couple of times a month around Hesketh Bank and Mere Brow. I usually fish for sturgeon, carp, catfish and seabass, with my biggest catch being a 37lb sturgeon!
Based at Southmire Farm, in Lowgill, Lancashire, Bowland Pork is a family-run business, well known for its quality cuts of meat. The team rear 80 sheep, 200 pigs, and 30 cows, as well ask 300 turkeys at Christmas, across 60 acres.
In July this year, the team invested in a Massey Ferguson 6S.155 Dyna VT, which they use - often with a loader - to lift and unload pallets, muck out, make hay and haylage, as well as a variety of small contracting jobs. Massey Ferguson was always first choice for Ben, as he has always thought their machines were of a better class and were more reliable than other brands they had used. It was Ben’s son, Luke, who liked the 6S.155 in particular, as having worked for a contracting company, Ben has experience with a range of machinery and knew the Vario gearbox was worth investing in. “The 6S is nearly double the size of our previous machines”, Ben explains, as it can lift around 2.7 tonnes, in comparison to one tonne previously. “We’ve also noticed a
real difference in the seat - it’s so much comfier! It’s great! For us, it’s the best tractor we’ve ever had!” adds Ben.
The new Massey Ferguson 6S.155 is built for modern farms, for a variety of users; from arable farmers, to contractors, or large livestock operations, and is well built to tackle a range of conditions.
The 6S.155 has a four-cylinder, 4.9 litre AGCO power engine, yet has the towing capacity and pulling and pushing power to easily match any six-cylinder tractor - even when weighing in at nearly half a tonne less. The four-cylinder engine means the tractor is compact, has a low overall weight, and can manoeuvre with ease. This means the machine has a lower impact on the land, as minimum ground pressure is ensured to prevent soil damage. The 6S.155 has a turning radius of under 32 feet, which is excellent for saving time at headlands, but also for generally moving around the farm.
The 6S.155 has one of the most efficient engine-transmission combinations on the market, with over 20 years of continuous research and improvements to the Dyna-VT transmission, making for renowned reliability.
Dyna-VT allows for seamless shifting, ensuring ultimate convenience and control in all circumstances. The MF Power Control lever is situated on the left-hand side of the steering column, and provides clutchless shuttling, with an adjustable response. It can also change speeds or select neutral.
The advanced Multipad lever - that comes as standard on both the efficient and exclusive modelsenables even greater control as it operates the transmission, as well as cruise control, the rear linkage, PTO, headland management and spool valves, all through the integrated micro-joystick. Dyna-VT offers infinite speed control, from 0.03 speeds to 50 km/h. A choice of two speed ranges optimises torque for different applications, and a lever / pedal control makes it easy to switch between the two.
A new automatic mode has been introduced, which allows the operator to adjust forward speed with the Multipad lever or the foot pedal, whilst the engine speed is regulated automatically, based on the load and speed. A lower engine speed limit has also been introduced with rpm never dropping below this limit. The new automatic mode is easily activated, as it is situated on the armrest.
Inside the new spacious 6S.155 cab, is a new smart steering wheel with signature Sabre design. There is also a new armrest, where all controls are easily accessible, including the MultiPad lever, which ensures operation of all main functions is at the operator’s fingertips. Transmission settings, as well as driving modes can be easily managed, thanks to a new roller switch.
Introducing the new JCB iCON control system, this sophisticated technology has been built around three key areas and aims to keep things as simple as possible. Controls can be configured to suit any operator, allowing the machine to work exactly how you want.
The updated 4220 boasts an auxiliary joystick, proportional rocker, twoaxis proportional hydraulic control, and a main ergonomic joystick which has nine buttons, five of which are configurable. The machine allows the operator to assign functions to both the main and auxiliary joysticks across 50 control profiles, as well as assign spools to any lever.
The new 4220 offers a variety of fully integrated ISOBUS options, including level 2 ISOBUS, which allows the operator to assign ISOBUS functions to the joysticks (AUX-N), basic task control (TC-BAS, Universal Terminal (UT), and section and rate control. Fully integrated JCB GPS is an optional add on, which can be ordered direct from the factory, and makes use of an industry proven NOVATEL Smart-7 receiver, as well as a custom JCB user interface. Standard models are equipped with a DAB radio with Bluetooth connectivity, which can be controlled through the screen, or on the armrest via dedicated software.
The 4220’s new drive software, Smart Transmission Control (STC), operates on a speed-based system, which allows the user to choose their desired speed, whilst engine speed and transmission ratio are controlled by the tractor itself. The user can select pre-set cruise speeds at the touch of a button, whilst Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) ratio ensures speed is maintained, even under changing loads. The user can switch seamlessly between pedal, stick, and roller, and is able to choose between two joystick configurations; JCB Classic or JCB Pro, offering increased operational flexibility.
Aside from this, the 4420 is more versatile than ever, with five possible locations for implements. Rear deck and advanced suspension also means attachments can be fitted easily. The new model has 4-Wheel
stee r with selectable steering modes and a rapid steer option that makes headland turns quicker and easier to operate.
Advanced hydropneumatic suspension ensures the 4220 provides unmatched stability and comfort. A mid-mounted cab position provides 360° visibility, and there are options for a leather trimmed, heated and ventilated seat, and seats allow 60° of rotation (50˚ right, 10˚ left). The screen, seat, and armrest are all adjustable, and the controls are configurable, offering a bespoke operating environment.
Safety is pivotal to any machine, but especially for the 4220. Greater stopping power is delivered through all-round disc brakes, whilst ABS provides remarkable control. A solid structure is provided by a full-length rigid chassis, and anti-roll bars, as well as an advanced suspension system, which provides increased st ability at high speeds
As I am writing this, we are currently still in the middle of Harvest but by the time this is published Harvest, 2022 should be well boxed off…. Fingers crossed anyway!
I hope it went well for you as after fert prices, fuel prices and a ‘drought’ (I put drought in quotations because I am from the moss and while the radio was reporting on hosepipe bans, I was still trying to pull sinking silage trailers out) I think it was about time something went well for us!
This year we have attempted to harvest 800 acres which is one hundred up from last year. When we decided to take on this extra land, my only request was that we get some more help. Currently, it is only me and Dad on the farm full time and with 600 cows to also care for, to say we are over stretched is a bit of an understatement. Obviously, when harvest came around this extra help had still never materialised, however
I think it is only fair to shout out the best roped-in volunteers imaginable, also known as my mum, two sisters and brother, who so far have really saved our bacon. From a full team outing to vaccinate cattle on the marshes, every family member played a crucial part. Mum did the paperwork, whilst making some of the best teas and lunches for us all, and delivered them to us in the field every day. My sister - who has arguably organised some of the northwest's favourite events, can actually be relied upon to deliver rolls of net when needed. My soon to be uni student little sister, who is a butcher assist at the weekend, found herself as our big-time bale operater during the week. Finally, my little brother who is one of the most laid back carter's we could ask for. We really couldn't do it without them!
You may be wondering what it is that I have to do – and to be honest I was in this predicament recently after a
day of picking up and putting our bought-in calves on our robotic milk machine. I rang my little brother to ask if he wanted me to swap with him carting for dad on the combine so he could go home, he told me a simple ‘no, I’m good’ so I tried my sister on the baler only to get the same answer. And to be honest, I was a bit put out my brother had stolen my tractor and my sister had stolen my baler –which if you know me you know how much I like my baler. So having been retired to my cows part time (in my opinion a giant plus), this also means being on the yard a lot of the time during havest, so also comes with the running of the dryer, which I think is the worst job – but hey, life is about balance.
It's very easy to take their help for granted, so this is your reminder to thank your farming family members as they probably do a lot more than you realise day to day to help you, and put up with this crazy lifestyle of ours.
After asking Tom and Lisa if there were any demos I could feature on my Aplan rural Instagram takeover back in July, you could say I was very glad when they sent a new Kverneland bedding machine (the 863 model).
The reason for me being so glad is, after 10 years of use and abuse, it’s safe to say our older model had become very temperamental, and had to be coaxed into working each morning. We do, however, like to test demos to their limits, here at home, which is exactly what we did with this.
Using round wheat bales from the previous harvest, that had been stacked outside all winter (so you can probably imagine their condition). We used the Kverneland to bed down our beef cattle for a week and this is what we found:
This new model is a lot less likely to block compared to our older model, with it not being as built up and more space around knives, meaning fewer blockages as the bed chamber feeds the bale in. We also found the wider bottom of the spout also prevents blockages as the straw is fed up and out a lot easier.
The newer model is also a lot more powerful, allowing it to handle wet straw better as it seems to be able to just take it. It also sends straw a lot further and can reach the back of long pens with ease.
And of course, just like our older model it is well built and very simple to use.
After using the older model for the past ten years I would definitely say this is a massive step up and a vast improvement, so much so I managed to get Dad to order one so it must be good!
DEMONSTRATOR REVIEW KVERNELAND BEDDING MACHINEThe multinational corporation has celebrated the milestone with the release of its new line of MF S series tractors. As the first global supplier of agricultural tractors and machinery and a market leader in the design and production of agricultural products, the blue print of the latest series of tractor from the brand is just as technology and farmerfocused as the original thoughts of Daniel Massey back in 1847.
In 1994, Massey Ferguson joined the global brand AGCO Corporation and took the next step in production and technological advancements through access to the AGCO branded resources. With advanced technology and design, Massey Ferguson continued to grow and with a wealth of experience, focused on delivering the design detail and practicality that the industry requires.
Over the years, Massey Ferguson has maintained its focus on supplying the farmer with the right, cutting-edge and innovative technology and equipment to remain at the forefront of the industry with tractors and equipment that has been ‘born to farm’. As self-proclaimed ‘agricultural problem solvers’, they are continually looking to further increase productivity and ease of use to aid the farmer.
Last year, in our Autumn/Winter edition of Tracks, we talked about the unveiling of the MF 5S, 6S, 7S and 8S. Over the last few years, we have covered numerous testimonials and stories demonstrating the versatility, performance and increased productivity of the Massey Ferguson tractors, each providing the farmer
with the means enhance their business with a reliable, robust and versatile brand.
In 1891 Daniel Massey, a Canadian producer of durable agricultural implements and Alanson Harris, manufacturer of dependable farm equipment merged to become Massey-Harris Company, creating a full line of reliable solutions to farmers. The company name became global, synonymous with straightforward and dependable farm equipment.
Meanwhile, when Harry Ferguson started working at the Motor Company in Belfast at the beginning of the First World War, there were over 1 million horses working on farms in Britain. The effect on the supply of food for troops during the War prompted the ingenuity and development of a faster and less labour-intensive way of producing food for the country. Like Massey and Harris before him, Ferguson wanted to create a solution to revolutionise farming and increase efficiency and productivity for the farmer.
After the initial prototype – The Black Tractor – was developed in 1933, production began at the David Brown Company. However, after manufacturing less than 2,000 machines in England, Harry met and demonstrated the linkage system to Henry Ford in 1938 in the US who agreed to manufacture the Ford Ferguson tractor. This tractor was created to “do all the work that animals do on a farm at less than half the cost.” The Second World War halted the export of the Ford Ferguson to Britain but by the time
this could be done, Ford had designed a new tractor to be made in Britain.
Something that sets MF apart from other brands is their consistent ability to put the farmer at the heart of everything they do. In 1946 Harry Ferguson released arguably his most successful design – the TE 20 – or the ‘Little Grey Fergie’ as it is affectionately known. Harry saw the inherent weakness of the tractor and implement system before it, whereby the implement moved independently from the tractor.
The War delayed the Ferguson tractor from reaching Britain, with the first TE 20’s leaving the production line in October 1946 and became the first light and agile tractor, achievable through the combination of the first 3-point linkage and hydraulics creating a distinct combination, ‘the Ferguson system’. The all new linkage system did something unique and brought the tractor and machine together by increasing the control of the implement, a shortcoming that previous tractor manufacturers couldn’t solve. After Ferguson’s 3-point hitch became a staple in the industry, in 1953 Ferguson and Massey-Harris joined forces to create Massey-Harris-Ferguson and ultimately Massey Ferguson.
Over the years there have been numerous models of tractor developed and sold in the UK depending on the type of farm. Massey Ferguson has continued to produce dependable, efficient solutions to farming with straight forward design that maintains the true spirit of the original founders.
‘Massey Manufacturing Company’ - Daniel Massey focuses on machinery and repair, opening his first farm equipment workshop.
The Ferguson System and the ‘Ferguson Black Tractor’. The birth of the global standard in integrated coupling.
Ferguson Brown Tractor – Created by Harry Ferguson and manufactured by the David Brown Company.
Merge of Massey-Harris (Canada) and Harry Ferguson (UK) – ‘Massey-Harris-Ferguson’.
‘Massey-Harris-Ferguson’ becomes ‘Massey Ferguson’.
A team led by Sir Edmund Hillary reach the Antarctic on the on 4th January with two TE 20's.
The multi-power gearbox.
The MF 760, world’s largest combine.
1977
The PowerFlow Table. 1978
The first Electronic Linkage Control (ELC).
Autotronic and Dataronic, introduction of the MF 3000 Series.
From their fields to your plate, Clarke & Pulman customers give us an insight into the hard graft involved in producing some of the key ingredients that make your Christmas dinner so delicious
In this issue, as part of our Customer Focus, we take a look at where some of the staples of our Christmas Roast come from and how it is harvested and supplied.
We speak to some of our local customers including Bowland Pork, H&P Ascroft Ltd, JN & VL Webster Farming and Taylor’s Farm Shop to see what's involved in producing some of what you will find on your plate this Christmas.
They give us some insight into the production processes and where you can go to find it – whether it be restaurants, McCains, your local Booths supermarket or direct from the farm itself!
We contacted Neil Webster of JN & VL Webster Farming, based at Whams Farm in Mere Brow, Scarisbrick, to learn all about his potatoes. The team farm over 650 acres of land, and produce over 6000 tonnes of potatoes every year. Seven different varieties of potatoes are grown, including Maris Piper, Lady Terrier, Estima, and Innovator. Neil explains that the best potato for a roast dinner is a Maris Piper, because they are good all round, for both mash and roast potatoes!
One of the hardest things about growing potatoes is the weather, as Neil tells us it is always either too dry or too wet.
“Agriculture will go through many months and years of uncertainty. The uncertainty and risk of growing potatoes needs taking out of the sector as it is all placed on the grower of the potatoes, rather than spread across the board. Farming can be one of the most rewarding jobs, but also, one of the most demoralising”, Neil says.
You can find Neil’s potatoes almost anywhere, as the farm supplies major brands such as Five Guys, McCains, and Walkers, just to name a few!
Located in the beautiful Forest of Bowland, Bowland Pork is a family run business based at Southmire Farm in Lowgill. The company was set up in 1995, where the family reared pigs to sell to local markets. After the disastrous foot and mouth outbreak in 2001, the business decided to diversify, by butchering their own pigs to sell at market. After investing in a state of the art cutting plant, Bowland Pork became licensed under the Food Standards Agency (FSA) and could therefore continue to supply existing customers and larger retailers. Bowland Pork is also committed to contributing towards a sustainable environment, having signed up to the Environmental Stewardship Scheme.
All meat produced by Bowland Pork comes directly from the family’s farm, with the animals being free to graze in over 50 acres of the Forest of Bowland. The pigs bred on the farm are a Large White cross Landacre
breed. Breeding is selective ensuring only the finest animals are reared. Piglets are weaned at eight weeks old, and are reared outdoors in straw bedded kennels, fed on a natural cereal-based diet. Mule ewes are used to breed Texal lambs on the farm, which feed on the lush grass of the forest. The cows on the farm are an Aberdeen Angus cross breed, which are reared traditionally; slowly. The cattle join the sheep outside in the summer months, whilst feeding on cereal and hay in the winter.
Bowland sausages are made using only the finest pork shoulder mixed with a little belly pork to add extra flavour. The sausages are finished in natural skins only. All Bowland bacon is cured traditionally, using brown sugar and salts. There is no added water, which means there will be no shrinkage when cooking. The farm offers dry cured or smoked bacon, the latter flavoured using natural oak chips to give a delicious smoked taste.
You can buy Bowland meat online at: bowlandpork.co.uk
We called in to see Richard of BJ Tomlinson at Gracemire Farm near Salwick, for a cup of tea, some puppy cuddles, and a chat all about turkeys!
The Tomlinson family have been rearing Turkeys for over 75 years, and it all started with Richard’s Grandfather, Henry. Richard rears around 1800 turkeys per year, all of which have been bred especially for Christmas.
The turkeys usually arrive at Gracemire in August, at around 6 weeks old. The farm rears Norfolk White and Norfolk Bronze breeds, however, there are around 15 different strains within both breeds, which is why you can buy turkeys of differing sizes.
The turkeys are reared in natural light and ventilation, are fed a wheatbased diet, and bedding is changed daily with fresh straw. A random cohort of turkeys are weighed every month, to ensure they are developing as they should be. “The welfare of the turkeys is paramount, to ensure they are high quality, and as tasty as can be!”, explains Richard. An Environmental Health officer visits the farm, before the turkeys are slaughtered at 24 weeks old, in the presence of a vet.
The birds are first hand plucked and then hung for a minimum of seven days to ensure they are tender. On around 18th December, the birds are dressed (gutted), before every single turkey is quality checked by Richard himself. The turkeys are then boxed, presented, and ready for cooking on Christmas day!
Richard’s turkeys are sold in butchers all over the Fylde Coast, as well as Blackburn and Bolton. The farm has been supplying two of the same butchers with turkeys since Richard’s grandfather Henry was in charge! The turkeys are also available directly from Gracemire Farm.
If you would like to reserve a turkey, contact Richard or Fran on 01772 690377, or visit itsturkeytime.co.uk
We popped into see Peter of H&P Ascroft Ltd, based at Worthingtons Farm near Holmes, West Lancashire for a chat about his cauliflowers.
The family-run business farms over 400 acres of land – around 180 acres of which are for cauliflowers, 35 acres for potatoes, 25 acres for beetroot, and 20 acres for cabbages.
Growing cauliflowers runs in the family, with the Ascroft’s having grown the vegetable for four generations. Peter and his family farm over 30 different varieties of cauliflowers, as different varieties prefer different seasons.
“Cauliflowers are hard work”, Peter tells us, “They only have a small harvest window and can be affected by the full moon”.
Similar to the moon’s influence of the rise and fall of the tides, it can also have a gravitational effect on the moisture in plants, the soil, and the water table. New moon’s also mean the plants are exposed to more moonlight, which can cause the cauliflowers to grow more than usual.
You'll find H&P Ascroft’s cauliflowers in Booths Supermarkets all over the Northwest, along with their other vegetables. The farm also supplies catering suppliers across the UK!
"CAULIFLOWERS
We caught up with Andrew from Taylor’s Farm Shop, to learn more about his family business. Based in Lathom, Taylor’s Farm has been in the Webster family for over 100 years and is currently run by the third generation of the family – Roger, Bernie and two of their four children Andrew and Joe! The Webster family farm over 600 acres of land and have around 350 cattle. The farm likes to use specific breeds, such as Limousins, Belgian Blue, and traditional Aberdeen Angus.
Taylor’s Farm Shop first started by selling beef to family and friends, but quickly realised there was a high demand for their meat. A barn conversion later, and Taylor’s Farm Shop opened to the public, on weekends only. The shop was going steady, until they advertised burgers and steaks on a very hot summer’s day... The family then realised that not only the shop needed expanding, but also the team!
Cue Steve, the shops first full-time butcher, who joined the team in 2005 and is still there today! In his time at the shop, Steve has won five butchery
competitions, and mentored two of Taylor’s very own staff to win Premier Young Butcher of the Year. Bernie and Roger’s son, Joe, also learned the trade from Steve, having worked in the farm shop from being at school. Joe and Steve are both Butcher Managers in the farm shop.
The expansion of the shop allowed the team to also increase the range of products available, as the shop now has its own butchers, delicatessen, fishmonger, fruit and veg stall, food hall, and gift shop. Much of the shop’s produce comes directly from the farm, and if not, is sourced from local farms and businesses, usually within a ten-mile radius.
The delicatessen is home to a great selection of tasty treats. Pies are freshly made with meat from animals raised on the farm. There is homemade coleslaw, scotch eggs and pizzas! The delicatessen also stocks over 40 varieties of cheese, produced by local dairy farms.
The Food Hall stocks the finest local and British produce, from chutney and cooking sauces, to fresh cakes and bread. The Food Hall also sells a variety of fine red, white, and sparkling wines, speciality ciders and beers, as well as a selection of spirits, and mixers. Taylor’s Farm Shop won
the ‘Farm Shop of the Year’ award in both 2015 and 2017.
For our perfect roast dinner, Taylor’s Farm Shop is the perfect place to pick up all the finishing touches – pâté for starters, stuffing and cranberry sauce to finish off the main, a cheese board and selection of cakes for after, and of course, remove lots of alcohol!
Opening Times
Tuesday to Friday – 8.30am–5pm Saturday – 8.30am–4pm
Sunday & Monday – Closed
The delicatessen takeaway kitchen is open Tuesday to Saturday every week, from 8:30am, where you can pick up bacon and sausage butties, pies, sausage rolls, soup, and a selection of hot drinks.
Call: 01704 895687
• E-link control box
• 2.25m width pick up reel (5 tine bars)
• Crop press roller with movable rake
• Fixed pick-up reel guide wheels
• Hydroflex-control drop floor
• Mechanical tailgate lock
• 4 infinite belts with opti-clean rollers
• Constant pressure system
• Net tying unit with additional net roll carrier
• Roller bearings with grease banks
• Telescopic bale discharge ramp
• Hydraulic braked axle
• 550/45 R22.5 tyres
• 540rpm gearbox
• 17 knife chopping unit (hydraulic controlled)
• 17 blind knives with holder
• 11.5/80-15.3 running wheels • Road lighting • Individual lifting kit • Tandel axles with wheels 16/6.50
• 2.25m pick up reel
• 550/45-22.5 tyres
• 17 knives • Hydraulic breaks
At C&P we offer both JCB and AGCO apprenticeships where you will spend 80% of your time work ing on-the-job with our trained technicians and the other 20% of the time at college learning the fundamentals of your career as a Land-Based Service Engineering Technician.
What do we provide?
• You will work full time whilst studying for your Level 3 qualification with Reaseheath College, Cheshire.
• The 4 year course is fully funded by C&P, meaning you have no course fees or debt on completion of your studies.
• As well as being paid a full time wage whilst at college, we also cover your expenses whilst you’re away including your accommodation and meals.
• You will be employed full time at our Burscough depot, learning on the job from our experienced technicians and putting your training into practice.
• Ability to gain first-hand experience of customer machinery whilst training.
• You will be mentored by our experienced and knowledgeable Service Manager and senior technicians.
• As you gain experience you will be provided with your own service vehicle, a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van and will go out on farm to further your knowledge and experience.
Reaseheath is kitted out with state of the art teaching facilities in which students are able to learn about all aspects of service engineering from conducting routine inspections to diagnosing and rectifying electrical system faults.
Matt first applied for the JCB apprenticeship at C&P in September 2020. After his interview, he was offered a trial position in the workshop.
After his 4 week trial it was clear that Matt would be a great addition to the C&P team and he was enrolled on the JCB Apprenticeship in partnership with Reaseheath College.
Through 20% college work and 80% on the job training in the service department, Matt has been able to expand his knowledge, learning from experienced technicians and applying newfound skills to his work.
David joined C&P last summer and just completed his first year on the apprenticeship.
The Journey - Matt Jones"THROUGH MY APPRENTICESHIP, I'VE REALLY EXPANDED MY KNOWLEDGE BASE, AND THE TEAM AT CLARKE & PULMAN HAVE BEEN REALLY SUPPORTIVE IN MY LEARNING. THERE IS A REALLY POSITIVE WORKING ENVIRONMENT AT C&P, AND EVERYONE IS REALLY FRIENDLY AND HELPFUL."
Matt Jones, JCB Apprentice
At Ramages DIY, we supply, repair and service chainsaws and everything in between, offering a bespoke customer service from our shop in Burscough, Ormskirk. We offer everything from advice on different chains, to helping our customers understand which chainsaw is appropriate for the job, whatever it may be.
When you purchase a chainsaw from us, we will go through the pre-delivery inspection with you, build the saw and provide you with a guide on how to sharpen your chain. We will run and tune the chainsaw before you leave and offer a complimentary re-tune after 20 hours of run time. We also offer this service for hedge trimmers and strimmers.
We service Husqvarna and Stihl chainsaws, hedge trimmers, strimmers and blowers, and supply a full range of Husqvarna clothing, equipment, parts and accessories.
HUSQVARNA 135 MARK II RRP £240.83 +VAT
Robust, reliable and easy to use saw with ample cutting performance for homeowners. The perfect garden chainsaw. 14” bar and chain Air Injection Low Vibration System Combined Choke/ Stop Control X-Torque Technology • Cylinder displacement 38 cm³ • Handle type Standard
• Weight (excl. cutting equipment) 4.7 kg
HUSQVARNA 435 MARK II RRP £349.17 +VAT
Lightweight and easy to manoeuvre, ideal for those looking for a domestic chainsaw for the garden or a small amount of land.
15” Bar and chain
Air Injection
Low Vibration System
Combined choke/stop control X-Torque Technology
• Cylinder displacement 40.9 cm³
• Handle type Standard
• Weight (excl. cutting equipment) 4.2 kg
HUSQVARNA 550XP MARK II RRP £690.83 +VAT
Powerful, durable and easy to manoeuvre, 50cc chainsaw with excellent performance and cutting capacity.
18” Bar and Chain
Air Injection
Low Vibration
Autotune controlled self-adjusting carburettor X-Torque technology
• Cylinder displacement 50.1 cm³
• Handle type Standard
• Weight (excl. cutting equipment) 5.3 kg
