New wellbeing research findings emphasise urgent need for action
Perennial has partnered with the University of Exeter’s Social Innovation Group (SIG) to conduct a major new study to better understand the emotional, physical and financial wellbeing of those who work in horticulture.
Industry professionals continue to experience serious and sustained wellbeing challenges.
These results highlight the urgent need for action across the industry, as Julia Hayne, Director of Services at Perennial explains: “The scale of the very real challenges those working in horticulture are facing will not surprise people across the industry.
“We are living through a period of significant social and political change that has the potential to impact us all. With uncertainties about the future, people’s ability to manage the everyday challenges is being put to the test, from rising prices, increased job insecurity and longer health care waiting lists.
“Ill health is the leading reason why people seek our help. This often means people have to take time off work, which impacts their income, their ability to pay their bills and their family life. In some cases, it means they are unable to return to the job they love.
“Over the last three years we have led targeted interventions to improve the health and wellbeing of the industry and this work is beginning to move the dial, in areas of physical and mental health. But we are aware much, much more needs to be done. It is essential that we develop an industry-wide understanding of the challenges people face through life and come together to identify real world solutions that make a long-term difference.”
This is further emphasised by Prof Michael Leyshon, Professor (Associate) in Social Geography and Dr Shukru Esmene, Research Fellow, both from the University of Exeter.
Key statistics include:
• 52% of people have a health condition that is expected to last more than 12 months – 12% higher than in 2021
• 84% of people told us that they had experienced back and joint pain in the last 6 weeks and 51% of people didn’t seek advice
• 83% of people within horticulture scored low or average for their wellbeing using a recognised scale 1
• And 32% stated they do not have an emergency fund, with 1 in 10 saving no money at all, pointing to the persistent financial stress faced by many across the industry
“The issues of particular interest, which were also prominent in Perennial’s 2021 survey results, include the reporting of lower life satisfaction and higher prevalence of low or medium mental health scores compared to national averages,” they added. “These areas need sector-wide action to address and will take time to solve.”
Perennial Enquiry 1
Support greenkeepers during driest spring in 70 years
The British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA) is calling on golf clubs and golfers across the UK to support their members as we face our driest spring for decades.
Following some exceptionally wet recent winters, the spring of 2025 has brought a stark contrast. According to the Met Office, rainfall across many regions has been at historic lows.
Wales recorded its driest March since 1944, while East Anglia experienced its second-driest March on record.
With May showing little improvement, greenkeepers are under extreme pressure to maintain playing surfaces amid growing turf stress.
Paul Woodham, The R&A’s Agronomy Lead for Europe and the UK, noted that warm days combined with cold nights have disrupted seasonal growth, resulting in stressed grass and delayed recovery from winter damage.
Clubs are encouraged to communicate openly with their members, sharing insight into current conditions and course management strategies.
Transparent engagement and social media updates are key tools to foster support.
“Our advice to clubs is to engage in professional dialogue with your Course Manager, set agreed objectives and show open support for your team of greenkeepers,” said BIGGA’s CEO Jim Croxton.
“They will be much more motivated and determined to overcome these challenges with strong support from their members.”
BIGGA Enquiry 2
The driest Spring in 70 years has brought plenty of welcome sunshine for many, but a whole set of severe challenges for our wider industry. With the dreaded d-word - drought - already being mentioned in some parts of the country, the impact of an seasonal lack of rainfall is already clear to see.
April showers gave way to heatwaves and May has followed suit, with high temperatures and blue skies creating headaches for a wide variety of reasons. The environmental impact of such changing weather partners is something we see every working day. So, it is good that conversations around water conservation, alternative treatments and best practice during prolonged periods without rain are already taking place. It is an issue raised by BIGGA and which was part of the conversation during the recent RHS Chelsea Flower Show, with the impact of climate change influencing many gardens and displays. It is an issue we are sure to return to in the next few months.
This month we have our regular look at the Play & Activity sector at a time when it has been making headlines for positive reasons. With activity levels up and the Government announcing additional investment opportunities, it is proving a very active period for the sector.
Elsewhere we have a few special features- Jane Carley casts her eye over the two and four-wheel tractor market and there is also a spotlight on Sweepers, Collectors, Blowers & Vacs. There is a round up of the latest products, news and case studies related to Hard & Soft Landscaping. We also look at sone new solutions and services now on offer and catch up with the latest opinions from across the industry. Keep applying the sunscreen and maybe try a little rain dance too. Have a good month everyone.
Martyn Smith martyn@tspmedia.co.uk
Paul Groves paul.groves@tspmedia.co.uk
CIRCULATION MANAGER Becki Everitt becki@tspmedia.co.uk HEAD OF LANDSCAPE DIVISION Kellie Wake kellie@tspmedia.co.uk
AREA SALES MANAGER Sunil Kainth sunil@tspmedia.co.uk
DESIGN & ARTWORK Laura Barton laura@tspmedia.co.uk
Paul Groves, Editor
Green spaces could slip away due to lack of Government support
The cross-party Environmental Audit Committee (EAC) has warned that without substantial private investment and clear commitments from ministers, the UK may not meet its pledge to protect 30% of land by 2030 and offer communities greater access to nature.
Since the Government’s current growth agenda prioritises substantial housebuilding and large-scale infrastructure development, private investment in schemes such as Biodiversity Net Gain will be critical to reverse the UK’s position as one of the most nature depleted countries in the world.
In its report on the role of natural capital in the UK’s green economy, the Committee urges Ministers to set out unequivocally the Government’s support for Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) and to ensure that BNG delivers on the Government’s aspirations for the policy. BNG drives investment into
nature by encouraging developers to provide a minimum increase in biodiversity of 10%, whether this is done on the development site, delivered somewhere else, or by buying ‘credits’ from the Government as compensation.
There has been speculation that the Government may be wavering on its commitment to BNG, given recent proposals for a stateadministered Nature Restoration Fund supplied by developer contributions. The Committee fears that a move away from BNG will cause uncertainty in nature markets and will have a negative impact on direct investment into nature restoration initiatives.
The Committee makes a number of recommendations to strengthen BNG, including offering developers the ability to pool BNG projects to ensure that they can attract investments at scale.
ifs, no buts: we need Ministers to facilitate private investment by setting out a clear commitment to the Biodiversity Net Gain policy.
“Biodiversity Net Gain is a ground-breaking approach which can secure genuine and lasting nature recovery in tandem with development in every corner of the country. Speculation that it might be ditched in favour of a broad-brush approach to state funding of nature restoration at scale risks undermining market confidence and further depleting nature in some communities.
“There is a real opportunity, through the Government’s commitment to growth, for nature to grow hand in hand with the economy. Failure to do this properly, and to keep on top of which projects are being invested in, will see green spaces slip away from already nature deprived communities.”
Defra Enquiry 5
Dennis ES-510 delivers electric performance
Keswick’s two flagship parks – Hope Park and Fitz Park –nestled in the heart of the Lake District in Cumbria, are setting the standard for sustainable grounds maintenance thanks to the exceptional performance of three Dennis ES-510 batterypowered mowers.
The move to electric machinery was spearheaded by Christine Fawcett, Parks Manager at Keswick Town Council, following the council’s bold step to declare a climate emergency.
“Keswick Town Council and Keswick Parks declared a climate emergency six years ago,” Christine explains.
“So obviously things had to change with fossil fuelled maintenance machinery, and
we started looking for battery alternatives.”
The parks team had been long-time users of the petrolpowered Dennis FT510, known for its reliability and versatility – particularly its interchangeable cassette system.
When Dennis introduced the battery-powered ES-510, which retained compatibility with the same range of cassettes, the transition was a natural progression.
“We’d built up a full suite of cassettes over the years,” says Christine. “From scarifiers to brushes, verticutter, sorrel roller and cutting cassettes – we rely on all of them throughout the year to deliver high standards of turf care.
“When the ES-510 came out, it looked like the perfect time to make the change to battery. And because the cassettes were compatible, we didn’t need to start from scratch.”
In fact, Keswick’s parks team became the first users in the UK to adopt an electric Dennis machine three years ago and now operate three ES-510s across both Hope and Fitz Parks.
One ES-510 can handle a significant workload in a single day – cutting the bowling green, two grass-court tennis courts, and nine holes on the pitch and putt – with the battery lasting comfortably through the day.
Dennis Enquiry 6
Meet the high-performance Makita XGT professional gardening tools. With up to 2x longer sustained power during demanding applications, you’ll leave your competition in the dust.
Visitor registration for GroundsFest now open
Visitor registration for GroundsFest 2025 is offi cially open, and this year promises to be bigger, better, and bolder than ever before.
Returning to Stoneleigh Park from 9–10 September 2025, GroundsFest is more than just a trade show. It’s a high-energy, hands-on event where the latest kit, expert advice, and industry insight all come together.
Whether you work in landscaping, groundscare, local authority, turf management, estate maintenance, education, or sportsturf—GroundsFest is the one event you don’t want to miss.
GroundsFest 2025 will bring together one of the most diverse ranges of exhibitors the industry has ever seen. From major machinery manufacturers and cutting-edge tech providers
to landscaping tools, turf care solutions, commercial vehicles, and more—you’ll find hundreds of top brands all in one place.
Try out the latest machinery and technology from top brands in real working conditions. You’ll also be able to experience Machinery Nation Live - a highoctane, entertainment-packed demo area brought to you by the team behind the hit YouTube channel Machinery Nation.
Grow your knowledge with completely free training sessions and seminars. Led by industry experts, these sessions cover the challenges and innovations shaping the future of outdoor spaces, turf, and groundscare.
Once the demos and seminars wrap up, the GroundsFest festival begins. Live music, street food, bumper cars and
great company—because the best conversations often happen away from the stand.
GroundsFest 2024 offers free on-site parking for everyone. There is also a dedicated camping area, which should be pre-booked in advance. Register for free on the
GroundsFest websitewww.groundsfest.com You can also follow GroundsFest on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram @GroundsFest for much more news, reviews and insightful views.
GroundsFest Enquiry 8
SUSTAINABLE TURF CARE WITHOUT COMPROMISE
Sustainability in landscape maintenance often requires practical adjustments and embracing new technologies that bene t the maintenance team, the environment, and the overall landscape. Kress RTKn robot mowers deliver superior performance saving time for the on-going maintenance of
THE
can maintain pristine, uninterrupted aesthetics while the RTKn delivers perfectly manicured lawns.
QUIET OPERATION
One of the standout features of Kress RTKn mowers is their near-silent operation. This allows groundskeepers to schedule mowing at any time of day or night without disturbing nearby residents, hotel guests, or players. Additionally, the robotic mowers reduce safety risks, such as the potential for staff injuries from ying golf balls.
ENHANCED TURF HEALTH
Kress RTKn robotic mowers go beyond just cutting grass; they actively contribute to the health of the turf. With the ability to mow early mornings or even at night, and even when dew is present. The consistent and gentle cutting action also promotes healthier grass growth, leading to more vibrant and resilient turf and reduced mole activity. Mowers that mulch like robotic mowers also reduce fertiliser costs, because the added nutrition means less fertiliser is needed.
Paxster delivers for Sandwell Council
Sandwell is a metropolitan borough in the West Midlands comprising six Black Country towns.
When Sandwell Council wanted to upgrade their spraying fl eet, they were looking for something more modern to replace the traditional combustion ATVs they were using.
They made the decision to look for suitable environmentally friendly electric vehicles. Precisely fi tting the bill, they have taken delivery of two Paxster eCompact Utility
These are part of a range of electric vehicles built with sustainable manufacturing in Norway.
Fully road homologated and featuring an ultra-small turning radius, the Paxsters are easy to drive with intuitive controls and a semi-open cabin to shield the driver from the elements.
This offers greater comfort while allowing maximum
visibility to complete the task safely.
At the core of the eCompact is a large 10kWh 50v LiFePo4 electric battery, powering sustained performance and reliability.
There is also enough power to charge rechargeable battery tools in the fi eld, providing up to 3kW of additional charging power.
Thanks to the narrow-body design, the Paxster eCompact is highly manoeuvrable and ideal for navigating tight spaces and hard-to-reach areas.
With its ample cargo space, robust chassis and a 240kg payload capacity, it is suited to an exceptionally wide range of applications.
Sandwell Council Paxsters came fi tted with low volume, high effi ciency sprayers from Nomix Enviro.
MILWAUKEE’s M18 FUEL pole hedge trimmers
MILWAUKEE continues to grow the M18 FUEL range with the introduction of two new M18 FUEL Extended Pole Hedge Trimmers.
The M18 FUEL Extended Pole Hedge Trimmers have the power to cut 22 mm hardwood branches, cuts fast, and provides more versatility for clean cuts with 60 cm double sharpened and dual actuating blades with a 25 mm blade gap.
Designed to meet the needs of the landscape maintenance professional, these hedge trimmers leverage a POWERSTATE Brushless motor and a double-sided blade, for faster more aggressive cutting.
The cutting head allows for 270º of blade articulation, giving users 12 operating positions and one storage position allowing the user to safely transport the tool.
M18 FUEL Extended Pole
Hedge Trimmers have a blade tip guard to protect the blades and prevent accidental damage of fences or other objects.
The rotating handle reduces fatigue on the upper body in application with a padded grip for optimum hand placement and increased comfort.
You can have up to a 50 min of run time with one M18 FORGE 8.0 Ah battery pack.
MILWAUKEE is committed to improving productivity by providing performance-driven and trade-focused solutions so users can perform an entire day’s work on one battery system.
The M18 FUEL Extended Pole Hedge Trimmers is compatible with the entire M18 FUEL line, now offering more than 315 solutions.
MILWAUKEE Enquiry 12
Hindley Hall upgrades irrigation efficiency
Hindley Hall Golf Club, a hidden gem nestled in the Northwest of England has invested in a state-of-theart Hunter irrigation system supplied by KAR UK.
The system, featuring the Hunter ACC2 controller and TTS-800 Series Golf Rotors, has already had a transformative impact on the course, providing better water efficiency, improved turf quality, and an enhanced playing experience for members.
Recognising the need for a modern, efficient system,
Andrew opted for the Hunter ACC2 controller and TTS-800 Series Golf Rotors, which were installed by his own team.
The Hunter ACC2 controller, which allows remote management via mobile and desktop applications, has given Andrew and his team the fl exibility to manage the irrigation system with ease
This newfound control has also streamlined feeding the greens, saving both time and effort.
KAR UK Enquiry 13
Flood relief at Caersws Football Club
Caersws Football Club, founded in the late 19th century, adopted its present name in 1974 when it relinquished its amateur status. The club’s first successes came in the nineteen sixties, winning the Mid-Wales League and the Welsh Amateur Cup. In 1992 they became founder members of the League of Wales and subsequently won the League Cup twice.
Situated close to the River Severn, the ground floods regularly when the river bursts its banks in winter months. But once the fl ood water subsided, the pitch would not be playable for up to 2 weeks due standing water on the pitch not draining away.
Caersws Club chair, Neil Lewis, had heard of the work by Terrain Aeration at other pitches and called them in to see if they could resolve the issue.
Terrain has a unique system used for over thirty years with their Terralift machines. The Terralift features a JCB road hammer and probe, which reaches a depth of one metre where it releases a blast of compressed air.
This fractures the soil, creating fissures to allow drainage, and as the probe is withdrawn, dried seaweed is injected. This has the effect of expanding and contracting with moisture and, in simple terms, keeps the holes open.
The process is repeated on a grid system, usually at twometre intervals, to interlink the fracturing. The probe holes are backfilled with an aggregate and the surface is almost immediately playable.
Terrain Aeration Enquiry 14
Meet the dual-battery brush cutter. XGT 80Vmax power ensures you can conquer the most demanding jobs with ease.
Lead the charge at makitaredemption.eu
Mansfield Sand transforms sports pitches
Andy Richards, Grounds Manager at Haileybury School, credits Mansfield Sand’s MM40 with significantly improving drainage and enhancing the overall quality of the school’s sports pitches.
With its exceptional consistency and performance, MM40 has become an essential part of his grounds management strategy, ensuring the pitches are always match-ready.
Located in Hertfordshire, Haileybury is one of the UK’s leading independent coeducational boarding and day
schools. Its sprawling 500-acre estate includes 180 acres of meticulously maintained sports pitches, supporting the school’s reputation for excellence in rugby, football, cricket, lacrosse, and hockey.
Andy Richards, in his sixth year as Grounds Manager, leads a team of 11 staff tasked with maintaining this diverse landscape.
“This year alone, we’ve used 400 tonnes of MM40 on a newly built pitch, 300 tonnes on two other pitches worked into the surface, and 58 tonnes as an October top-
dressing on our first-team rugby pitch,” Andy shared.
“On heavy clay, anything we can do to improve drainage is a massive benefit. Sand is expensive, so it has to be good quality to justify the investment, and Mansfield Sand always delivers.”
The MM40 sand’s medium-fine texture and superior drainage make it the ideal choice for Haileybury’s pitches, ensuring a stable and safe playing surface for students and athletes alike.
Mansfield Sand Enquiry 18
DSV UK takes top spots in seed rankings
DSV UK has made a major breakthrough in the turfgrass sector, with three of its perennial ryegrass varieties now ranking among the top ten in the British Society of Plant Breeders (BSPB) Turfgrass Seed Booklet.
Notably, two of these varieties have taken the top two positions in the highly regarded sports table (S1) for perennial ryes—marking a significant achievement for the company.
The new rankings place Euromagic at number one, followed closely by Flannel at number two.
Additionally, Reybann has secured a spot in the top ten, reinforcing the strength of DSV’s breeding programme.
While Eurogala, another standout variety, ranks just outside the top ten at number 12, its versatility across multiple tables—including lawns, greens, cricket, golf, and bowls—makes it an exciting commercial prospect.
Sam Horner of DSV UK emphasised the significance of these results: “When people look at this booklet, the sports table is the one everyone wants to top.
“We’ve always had good breeding, and this proves that our material is now the best in these trials.”
The BSPB Turfgrass Seed Booklet is widely regarded as a key reference for industry professionals selecting the bestperforming grass seed varieties. The sports table, in particular, carries significant prestige within the turfgrass sector, making DSV’s achievement even more impactful.
DSV UK Enquiry 19
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Suståne supports the sustainability goals
GEO Certified and described as an ‘outstanding role model for sustainability in golf’, Sweden’s Mjölby Golfklubb provides an interesting mix of nine holes played on open former-farmland and nine holes in dense parkland – all maintained to the highest environmental standards.
An important part of this is a nutritional programme orientated around organics – more specifically, 6-2-4 Turf Revival® and 5-2-4+Fe from Suståne.
Sustainability is a priority across many aspects of the club operation, a philosophy shared and implemented by Course Manager Peter Ihrebrink and the greenkeeping team of four.
Suståne Turf Revival® 6-2-4 is designed to replenish the soil with a rich supply of humus and
mycorrhizal fungi, to improve the uptake of nutrients and boost overall plant health.
Particularly beneficial for us around renovations or intensive maintenance, the mix of macro and micronutrients contributes towards optimal plant establishment and quick green-up, followed by up to eight weeks of uniform growth and colour.
Suståne Enquiry 21
Green-tech launches new Landscaping and Grounds Maintenance brochure
Green-tech, the UK’s leading landscaping and grounds maintenance supplier, has launched a new 50-page seasonal brochure packed with essential products and trusted solutions for summer maintenance.
The brochure can be downloaded from the Green-tech website (www.green-tech.co.uk), or you can request a printed copy by emailing marketing@green-tech.co.uk.
Tailored for landscape contractors, grounds maintenance teams, estate managers, and local authorities, it brings together Green-tech’s most popular and effective products to help maintain green spaces during the demanding summer months.
The brochure includes a wide choice of professional grass seed and wildflower seed mixes suited to a range of applications, from high-wear school pitches to biodiversityrich verges and open spaces.
It also features fertilisers, weed control products, pesticides, barks, composts, soil improvers, and weed suppressant fabrics; all supported by technical advice from Green-tech’s experienced team.
To support year-round maintenance, the brochure showcases hard surface cleaners, application equipment, reinforcement products for grass and turf areas, and a comprehensive
range of edging systems and landscaping tools.
Green-tech’s Sales Director, Richard Gill, comments, “Our new brochure is designed to simplify summer maintenance planning.
“Whether you’re maintaining school grounds, public parks, commercial or domestic landscapes, you’ll find proven products that work.
“Green-tech holds high stock levels and delivers quickly to give landscape professionals the products they need when needed, from one supplier.”
Green-tech Enquiry 23
Tubex expands tree shelter collection and recycling network
Tubex is expanding its tree shelter Collection and Recycling Programme, making it easier than ever for landowners and tree planters to recycle used shelters responsibly.
With 1.1 million tree shelters recycled to date, the UK’s first dedicated scheme of its kind is growing once again, with the addition of more locations and partners committed to sustainable forestry practices.
Tubex has built on the scheme’s success in 2024 by working closely with more partners and distributors to expand the network for 2025, with new collection points, including West Chevington, RSK Whittington and Alba Trees Ltd, joining the list.
accessibility for landowners and tree planters looking to dispose of used shelters responsibly, either by dropping them off at a hub for free or by booking doorstep collection for a small fee.
Wildflower Turf delivers long-term performance
Wildflower Turf Ltd, the pioneering developer of soilless wildflower turf, is setting the standard for biodiversity, sustainability, and long-term success with its scientifically developed Wildflower Turf.
Years of dedicated research and innovation mean that not all wildflower turf is created equal - what’s beneath the surface matters just as much as what grows above.
With over 20 years of research and development, Wildflower Turf Ltd has pioneered a soil-less, whole-root system that ensures superior establishment, healthier plants, and significantly reduced maintenance. Wildflower Turf Ltd has spent years refining its soil-less, whole-root growing method to ensure optimal results for every project.
James Hewetson-Brown, Managing Director of Wildflower Turf Ltd, said: “Our Wildflower Turf® is the result of years of dedication to developing a sustainable, high-quality product that delivers real biodiversity benefits. The secret to success is in the roots - our soil-less system ensures stronger, healthier plants and a more resilient meadow.
Securing the future of sustainable living
“We’re proud to lead the way in creating landscapes that thrive for generations to come.”
In a recent partnership aimed at boosting both security and visual appeal, Jacksons Fencing was tasked with providing a bespoke fencing solution for a new housing development in Gilbourne Road, Greenwich.
This development, which features 15 net-zero council homes, was designed with sustainability and energy efficiency at its core, using ecofriendly materials and advanced energy-saving technologies.
Jacksons Fencing Sentry Residential metal railings and Barbican Imperial ® vertical bar railings were installed to deliver a functional, aesthetically pleasing fencing solution that met all the project’s diverse needs.
These metal railing systems are designed to seamlessly blend with the surroundings, enhance the visual appeal of the properties, and provide long-lasting security. Jacksons
Fencing’s team worked closely with the developers to understand the specific requirements of the site and the needs of the residents.
The result was a sophisticated, low maintenance metal railing system that incorporated durable materials while aligning with the sustainability goals of the development.
Jacksons Fencing Enquiry 26
Wildflower Turf Ltd Enquiry 24
These new locations accompany Tubex’s existing partners such as Yorkshire Dales Millenium Trust, Tilhill, Maydencroft, Green-tech and others, helping to grow the hub network to over 25 sites across the UK. This year’s expansion ensures even greater
Tubex Enquiry 25
Project: Wilton Park Tree Pits
Location: Dublin, Ireland
Landscape Architect: Townshend
Landscape Contractor: Maylim
Products/Services Supplied: Green-tech
Green-tech supports urban tree pits at one of Dublin’s latest destination venues with their TreeParker® System
In the 1950s, the area around Wilton Park was the most bohemian community in the city. It sits around the newly renovated, delightful one-acre park, sitting alongside the Grand Canal.
The work included planting 30,000 new shrubs and 48 new trees, restoring the Victorian fountain, and adding new seating. It is open seven days a week from 6.30am to 9pm.
The development of the inspiring office, social, and residential building involved years of preparation and consultation with city planners and the local communities. Every facet of the design, materials and amenity space has been driven by the desire to create a space that people will use and love.
Wilton Park is the only workplace in the city with its
own park, and as if to rubberstamp its credentials, three major companies LinkedIn, Stripe and EY have chosen the location for their new headquarters.
One outstanding feature is a new public square with a mature cherry tree and interactive water feature. Mary Lavin Place is the first public place in Ireland to be named after a female writer, celebrating the area’s literary connections.
Green-tech involvement
Maylim are specialists in hard and soft landscaping, paving projects, and civil engineering work, and Wilton Park was their inaugural venture into Dublin.
They have worked with Greentech for nearly ten years across various projects, so when the TreeParker ® tree pit support system was suggested, they were keen to see it, especially as it had recently been used to good effect just down the road at Athlone a few months previously.
Launched as a like-for-like alternative to the tree pit support systems already on the market, TreeParker® works in exactly the same way – supporting the paving above, vehicular or pedestrian, whilst protecting the soft, organic topsoil below from compaction. It does however have a number of distinct advantages.
The heavy-duty, reinforced legs are available in six height options from the factory: 400, 600, 800,
1000, 1200, and 1500mm. This gives a previously unheard-of flexibility with depth options, and more importantly, without the need to stack two units high, saving installation time and money.
It also enables the units, by having rounded legs rather than side walls, to easily straddle, or work around service pipes and lines.
The new TreeParker® system comprises rigid, modular units made from reinforced, recycled polypropylene. These units do a vital job in enabling the ground above a tree pit to be trafficked, supporting the paving above (up to 56t/m2).
This means that rather than having to use a fast draining and low organic structural tree soil, we can use a soft, friable, organic topsoil, ideal for successful tree establishment. Made from highly rigid, 100% recycled polypropylene, the units still provide 95% of their volume for rooting space.
There were various sized tree pits across the site up to 28m2, and longer trenches up to 39m long, allowing for around 20 new trees to be planted along the front and rear aspects of the main building.
Supplying product to site in a timely manner was no problem thanks to Green-tech’s fullystocked warehouse in Ireland, serving both Northern Ireland and Eire.
The feedback on TreeParker ® has been complimentary, focusing mainly on the speed and simplicity of installation.
There were several utility lines on site and the absence of intrusive side walls meant that installation was a lot more straightforward than it might otherwise have been.
Alasdair Innes, Greentech Specification Advisor summarises, “This is a stunning development, and it was fantastic to have TreeParker® chosen as the preferred tree pit support system.
“Having a warehouse in Ireland is also a major benefit for us to be able to cover the increasing number of projects coming through for Northern Ireland and Eire.”
Green-tech Enquiry 27
RHS Garden Wisley
RHS Garden Wisley’s iconic Glasshouse Borders are being sympathetically redesigned into a perennial paradise by the internationally acclaimed landscape designer Piet Oudolf, who designed the original borders more than 20 years ago.
The redesigned garden newly named “The Oudolf Landscape” will be defined by Piet’s signature ‘New Perennial’ style and will be one of the largest and most significant examples of Piet’s work seen in the UK.
The Oudolf Landscape aims to transform the borders into a more contemporary and sustainable landscape and will boast a significantly more complex planting scheme with a key focus on resilience to
climate change and benefits to wildlife.
The large irrigated turfed path will be replaced with curved paths that will lead visitors among bold drifts of naturally self-supporting herbaceous perennials and grasses, while retaining much-loved views of Wisley’s Glasshouse.
Blakedown Landscapes was selected as the principal contractor and has been working collaboratively with the RHS Garden Wisley team to bring Piet’s design to life.
The team at Blakedown took great care in grading and preparing the new beds ready for planting, as well as installing new self-binding gravel footpaths. They used our EverEdge Titan steel
landscape edging to create the curved paths through the landscape.
Available in a variety of depths, thicknesses and finishes, Titan is the go-to product for where a strong and flexible edge is required in all areas of landscaping from traditional parterre’s, long sinuous pathways, driveways and more.
Titan has proved to be the perfect choice for RHS Garden Wisley where the steel can be quickly and easily manipulated to create the long meandering paths, whilst the inconspicuous appearance of the steel edge once installed will blend seamlessly into the landscape.
The end result will be a steel edge that is easy to maintain
and not distracting to the eye allowing for the new perennial planting to be the undivided focus. Work on the remodelling started in the Autumn of 2023
417120
For over 30 years,
with the plan of reopening to the public in Summer 2024. For more information about RHS Garden Wisley and the new Oudolf Landscape, please
visit www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/ wisley.
EverEdge Enquiry 28
New mowable wildflower lawn mix
As the UK faces a butterfly crisis, with over half of native species in long-term decline, Johnsons Lawn Seed has introduced Nature’s Lawn: a pioneering lawn seed mix designed to support pollinators.
Blending slow-growing, drought-tolerant grasses with native perennial wildflowers that flourish under regular mowing, Nature’s Lawn creates a vibrant, wildlife-friendly space that remains functional and familyfriendly.
Crucially, it offers an abundant environment for key pollinators, including butterflies.
The mix supports cutting heights from 50mm to 150mm, enabling gardeners to strike the perfect balance between aesthetics and biodiversity.
“We’ve lost approximately 97% of flower-rich meadows since the 1930s,” says Johnsons Lawn Seed’s Guy Jenkins.
“With over 20 million gardens across the UK, even small changes can make a significant difference. Nature’s Lawn empowers gardeners to be part of the solution.”
Johnsons Lawn Seed Enquiry 30
Having a Proludic Whale of a Time at the revitalised Water Adventure Park!
The newly revitalised Water Adventure Play Park in Weston-Super-Mare has been transformed into a vibrant, seaside-themed destination that celebrates the town’s coastal charm. Located just off the promenade, the site faced environmental and logistical challenges, including deteriorating timber equipment, poor drainage, and the need to work around underground flood defences.
Proludic was selected for its expertise in coastal environments and durable, innovative play solutions. Using robust materials like high-pressure laminate and structural steel - supported by lifetime guarantees - the new park was designed to endure
salty air and high footfall while offering an exciting, inclusive play experience.
The centrepiece is the impressive 10.42 metre-long J2696 Whale from Proludic’s Aquatica range. This large-scale play structure accommodates up to 70 users and includes 59 play functions such as net climbs, slides, hammocks, and swings. Nearby stands the 6.9-metre-high J47251 Lighthouse, featuring a spiral staircase, fire pole, and panoramic views.
A dedicated toddler zone features sensory-rich, developmentally supportive play with the J2646-M Odyssey, J2615 Little Boat, and inclusive J2406 WOK Spinner. A sensory pathway with seven tactile surfaces connects themed zones,
while “play on the way” elements like sound panels and balance boards engage older children.
Accessibility is central to the design. The park features wide paths, inclusive swing seats, accessible surfacing, and communication panels for nonverbal users. Strategically placed seating and shade structures allow families to relax while supervising their children.
Despite the complexity of the site, careful planning ensured a layout that is safe, inclusive, and fun. The result is a dynamic coastal play destination where families of all ages and abilities can explore, play, and truly have a whale of a time - now and for years to come.
Proludic Enquiry 31
Blakedown Landscapes completes renovation of playground
Blakedown Landscapes has completed the renovation of Petersham Gate playground in Richmond Park, working on behalf of The Royal Parks to deliver a more inclusive, accessible, and environmentally sensitive play space for visitors.
The project was designed by The Royal Parks’ landscape team. The design focuses on creating a welcoming environment for all children, including those with additional needs, while enhancing the site’s relationship with the surrounding landscape.
This is the first major upgrade to the playground in over 20 years. The scheme introduces a variety of new play features - including swings, a log tunnel, a log
scramble, standing seesaw, and water play – all constructed from natural materials that reflect the woodland character of the site.
Following a tender process using The Royal Parks’ Landscape Construction Works Framework, Blakedown was appointed to deliver the works, which also included resurfacing and widening existing paths, and constructing a new access route using a no-dig cellular confinement system to protect tree roots and promote sustainable drainage.
New timber benches and bespoke cycle stands have been installed to improve the experience for families and carers, while native planting – including hedging,
trees, shrubs, and grasses –supports local biodiversity.
Paul Richards, Park Manager of Richmond Park, The Royal Parks charity, said: “We’re delighted to open the new Petersham Playground which has been constructed to an exceptional standard by Blakedown Landscapes.
“This new facility will encourage thousands and thousands of children to explore the outdoors, develop new skills, and enjoy the many benefits of play — from boosting mental and physical wellbeing, to building friendships and confidence in a safe, inspiring environment, for many years to come.”
Steve Buckingham, CEO of Blakedown Landscapes, commented: “We are proud to have delivered the renovation of Petersham Gate Playground on behalf of The Royal Parks.
“This project reflects what matters most to us: creating high-quality spaces through collaboration, care, and a shared commitment to the landscape.
“The sensitivity of the setting called for a considered approach, and we’re pleased to have delivered this project for The Royal Parks to deliver a space that will be enjoyed by families for years to come.”
Blakedown Landscapes Enquiry 32
Majority of MPs support increased and protected hours of PE
Four-fifths of MPs believe schools should provide every child with at least two hours of physical education (PE) per week, according to new research released by the Youth Sport Trust.
This overwhelming support from Parliament comes as organisations including the Youth Sport Trust are highlighting the critical role of PE in addressing the development and wellbeing crises faced by today’s generation of children.
As the Government’s Curriculum and Assessment Review enters its next stage[SC4] , 89% of MPs have expressed their desire for the curriculum to include protected time for PE; a recommendation included within[SC6] the Labour manifesto ahead of the 2024 general election.
The findings come at a critical time when less than half of children and young people are achieving 60 active minutes a day, as recommended by the UK’s Chief Medical Officers.
Furthermore, since London hosted the Olympics and Paralympics in 2012, 41,000 PE hours have been lost from schools nationwide (202324), reflecting a societal and systemic trend of deprioritising physical activity.
The Youth Sport Trust, alongside other organisations including those representing five of the leading sports[SC11] in England, have called for urgent action with increased access to PE and sport in schools, to ensure every child can access the benefits associated with sport and play.
In addition to the welldocumented benefits of physical activity for physical health (90%), mental wellbeing (87%) and social wellbeing (85[SC12] %), MPs also recognised the impact of sport and play on good life skills (82%), increased confidence (81%), giving a sense of belonging (69%), concentration & learning (54%) and better self-regulation/ behaviour (61%).
On Thursday 3 April, the House of Commons debated access to PE and school sport, which offered an opportunity for the Government to hear from MPs across the political spectrum why PE and school sport is so important to young people across the country. MPs involved highlighted best practice in their constituencies, the importance of physical
activity in improving wellbeing, socialising, self-esteem as well as physical health, and called for more sustainable funding for PE and school sport. The debate can be read in full here.
Commenting on the findings, Youth Sport Trust CEO Ali Oliver MBE, said: “It is incredibly positive to see support for PE and sport in schools is so strong in Parliament.
“Giving every child the opportunity to be active in childhood is crucial for their health and wellbeing, development and socialisation. There is also significant evidence to show increased physical activity impacts positively on student engagement in learning, academic progress and attainment. However, the reality is at present too many children are missing out.
“With the Curriculum and Assessment Review and Spending Review currently in progress, we have a unique opportunity to build on this cross-party consensus and create meaningful change. We need to put physical activity at the heart of every school day and lift the value of PE and sport in the curriculum helping children to lead healthier, happier, and more successful lives.”
Youth Sport Trust Enquiry
Improved PE and sport for more than 240,000 pupils with SEND
Hundreds of thousands of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) are set to benefit from a national programme to improve access to PE and school sports.
Backed by an initial £300,000 for the first year, the Inclusion 2028 programme will work with a network of 50 Youth Sport Trust lead schools to provide expert training to teachers to help them create and deliver lessons that meet the diverse needs of all pupils - including those with physical, sensory, cognitive, communication or social and emotional needs.
In doing this, the programme encourages more varied and creative teaching methods that engage all learners – in turn, improving attendance and creating a school environment where all children can achieve and thrive.
It will also provide leadership opportunities for 1,500 pupils who will develop activities for their peers as part of the programme, with schools across the country set to host events inspired by the Paralympic Games and Commonwealth Games.
Alongside this, it will see 600 new extra-curricular clubs established offering pupils, including those with diverse needs, the opportunity to take part in a range of sports such as tennis, boccia and archery after the school day.
Taking part in physical exercise can support muscle and motor skills, as well as a sense of achievement, confidence, social connection and better mental health.
The programme supports the government’s Plan for Change in breaking down barriers to
opportunity and ensuring every child and young person can achieve and thrive. It expects to work with over 8,000 schools supporting more than 240,000 pupils and 10,000 teachers and practitioners in England across the three years.
School Standards Minister, Catherine McKinnell said: “Sport has the unique power to break down barriers, build confidence and foster a sense of belonging.
“Inclusion 2028 will ensure young people experience the benefits of sport and physical activity, from improved mental wellbeing and teamwork skills to greater resilience.
“By building a generation of teachers with the skills and confidence to deliver high-quality PE and school sport for all pupils, we can ensure that every child gets their chance to shine.”
CEO of the Youth Sport Trust, Ali Oliver MBE said: “We are pleased the Department for Education is continuing to support the transformation of PE and school sport, and access to daily physical activity for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities.
“The Youth Sport Trust believes these opportunities play a fundamental role in the education and enrichment provided by schools, and the experience offers an invaluable opportunity for young people to express themselves, enjoy movement, and develop essential life skills.
“Too many children, particularly those with additional needs, are either missing out or still face barriers to inclusion and there is so much more to do to create the capacity capability and opportunity in the system for every child.
“We feel incredibly proud to continue leading the delivery of this important programme working alongside a distinguished collaboration of partners all of which are equally committed to this mission. Together through our work with schools, teachers and young people we know inclusive practice can give every child equal access, increase participation, and as a result enjoy the life-changing benefits of play and sport.”
Inclusion 2028 is delivered by a consortium of the Youth Sport Trust, ParalympicsGB, Swim England, Activity Alliance and nasen and supported by the Association for PE and Sport for Confidence.
DCMS Enquiry 34
Taraflex triumph for Gerflor at Langley School
Langley School is a secondary school with academy status situated in the Borough of Solihull, West Midlands.
With a requirement to obtain the best sports floor on the market Langley School turned to international flooring specialist Gerflor to supply over 680m 2 of their world-class Olympic pedigree Taraflex vinyl sports flooring.
As the main hall would also have to facilitate other nonsports activities including exams the school also opted for Tara fl ex ® Bateco, which is a moveable solution for protecting multi-sports floors falling on non-sporting activities.
Outlining their decision to specify Gerflor sports products
Mark Brown, Facilities Manager at Langley School said, “We decided to upgrade our sports flooring surface to Taraflex for the duty of care and protection qualities the product delivers, which is safer and more comfortable for our students. The durability of the Taraflex from
Gerflor is absolutely first class and truly fit for purpose for many years to come.”
Commenting on the project Wayne Andrews, Gerflor Key Account Sports and Education Manager North said, “Mark Brown was extremely pleased with the initial consultation and the free site survey and follow up. Mark is incredibly delighted with the end result and service Gerflor offered along with FLR Group’s excellent installation.”
The installation of the new Tara fl ex Evolution sports floor at Langley School would be undertaken by the Solihullbased FLR Group. Adam Kaid, Contracts Manager, FLR Group said, “We know that the Gerflor Taraflex sports flooring is meeting and surpassing expectations.
“We are really delighted with the end result and would definitely install and if given the opportunity specify Gerflor again.”
Gerflor Enquiry 35
Record numbers taking part in physical activity
The number of people playing sport and taking part in physical activity in England is at the highest level on record, according to the latest Sport England Active Lives Adult Survey Report.
The new figures show that, between November 2023 and November 2024, 63.7% of the adult population met the Chief Medical Officers’ guidelines of doing 150 minutes, or more, of moderate intensity physical activity a week.
That’s equivalent to 30 million adults in England playing sport or taking part in physical activity every week – up more than 2.4m from when we first published the survey results in 2016.
The number of inactive adults, those doing less than 30 minutes of activity a week, is down, with this number falling by 121,000 in the last 12 months.
This reflects significant progress, especially considering the huge disruption caused by the Covid19 pandemic, and is testament to the hard work of many organisations across the sport and physical activity sector.
The Active Lives Adult Survey Report also gives us a detailed understanding of the factors that influence how likely a person is to be active.
A person’s age, sex, gender, ethnicity, socio-economic group, whether they have a disability or long-term health condition, and the place they live in are all significant factors impacting our relationship with sport and physical activity.
The report shows some positive changes – since the survey began, the number of older adults (aged 55+) who are meeting the Chief Medical Officers’ guidelines
has increased from 51% to 58% (2.5m people), while the number of people who are disabled or living with a long-term health condition has increased from 44% to 48% (470,000 people).
However, it also underlines that many longstanding inequalities remain, with women, those from lower socio-economic groups and Black and Asian people still less likely to be active than others.
When a person has two or more of these characteristics, such as a black disabled person or an Asian man from a lower socioeconomic group, the results are compounded.
Sport England’s long-term strategy, Uniting the Movement, prioritises tackling these longstanding inequalities.
Chris Boardman, National Active Travel Commissioner
and Sport England Chair, said: “I’m delighted to see record numbers of people taking part in sport and physical activity.
“Sport England is determined that everyone in England, regardless of their background or personal circumstances, is
able to enjoy the benefits of an active lifestyle.
“We also know that an active population is vital for the country as a whole, as this relieves pressure on our NHS and also helps to drive economic growth.
“However, we know the job is not done yet and there is plenty more to do. That’s why we’ll continue focussing our efforts and resources on the communities that need it most.”
Sport England Enquiry 36
Working wonders and investing wisely
A tractor may be the single biggest purchase that any grounds maintenance business makes, so it’s good to hear that manufacturers continue to invest in technology, usability and operator comfort, says Jane Carley.
Massey Ferguson introduces the new MF 1M series replacing the MF 1500 models. Initially there will be two MF 1M series models, both with extra performance over the machines they replace.
The 25hp MF 1M.25 replaces the current MF 1525, while the 20hp MF 1M.20 replaces the current MF 1520.
As well as updated styling, new features include a factory-fitted cab, enhanced controls, a midPTO, external PTO controls, more lighting options and new cutter decks.
Power is supplied by threecylinder engines with extra power and torque – stated as 33 per cent more torque at lower revs than competitive machines.
A new nine-speed, three-range transmission increases flexibility in a wide range of applications on the MF 1M.20 while the MF 1M.25 features a stepless hydrostatic transmission.
A new joystick hydraulic control offers improved operation and powerful hydraulics with high flow rates of up to 20 litres/ min oil flow, suited demanding applications. Hydraulic lift capacity up to 900kg allows use with larger implements and for static operations, external PTO controls increase safety and convenience.
The introduction of a factoryfitted, air-conditioned cab with an adjustable steering wheel for the MF 1M.25 provides a comfortable working environment. LED work lights front and rear are standard.
On the accessories side, new cutter decks offer side- or reardischarge, and mulching options and are supplied as drive-over models for convenience.
Kubota (UK) Ltd has introduced an entry-level autosteer package to its range of guidance solutions, suitable for tractors and ride-on mowers and ideal for operations such as mowing and spraying.
Priced from £5520 and sourced through Topcon, the kit is called Value Line Steering and is available via the Kubota dealer network.
A wide choice of accuracy options are available to suit operational needs and budgets, which extend from 15cm passto-pass accuracy down to 1cm – the latter when using an RTK signal.
The Value Line Steering kit includes the XR-1 GNSS receiver with built-in gyroscope and accelerometer, XW-1 electric steering wheel and 10in, XC1 in-cab touchscreen terminal. Integral software has eliminated the need for a mechanical wheel angle sensor, simplifying installation and set-up.
“This new kit offers customers a price-sensitive package that delivers auto-steering functions to improve operational efficiency and reduce operator fatigue,” explains Jonathan Rook, Kubota UK’s product manager for agriculture. “The Value Line Steering kit brings affordable precision to any Kubota machine equipped with a steering wheel.”
Operators can access to any steering pattern required including straight, centre pivot, curved and custom guidance lines.
In addition, more advanced features such as Steer-toBoundary, Guidelock and Headland Turns are also available, along with basic ISOBUS implement control.
SUPERIOR FINISH EVERYTIME
everytime. With a variety of rotary or Muthing flail decks to choose from, the ISEKI SF range really is the ultimate mowing machine.
Available as cut and drop with a useful toolbox on the back, or cut and collect, with a turbine driven collection system direct from the deck to the large hopper, available up to 1300L. Designed and manufactured in Japan for quality that’s built to last.
Contact your local dealer to book a demo on your premises today!
The ISEKI SF range of powerful 22.5-49hp diesel engine mowers enable you to mow your grass whatever the weather keeping the same pristine
Massey Ferguson
Kubota
For those seeking even greater accuracy, an RTK Value Line Steering kit costing £7545 is available, which also requires a 12-month RTK signal subscription costing £650.
While the Value Line Steering kit can be self-installed, an optional installation service is available.
As standard, the Topcon Value Line Steering kits come with two years warranty and two years customer support.
New Holland’s revamped Boomer series of compact tractors are built to blend versatility with operator comfort and efficiency.
“The latest generation of Boomer tractors were launched in 2021: the 47hp Boomer 45 and the 57hp Boomer 55,” explains Jack Richards, New Holland Product Specialist UK & Ireland (Compacts).
ISEKI scores at Ipswich
For over 20 years, Ipswich Town Football Club has trusted ISEKI to help maintain pristine playing surfaces, ensuring every team at the club trains and plays on world class pitches.
Grounds Manager Ben Connell explains: “We’re not just using ISEKI because they’re local, but because we’re very happy with all of the machinery and the versatility and quality it provides.”
One of the latest additions to Ipswich Town’s fleet is the ISEKI SXG327, chosen specifically to enhance the presentation of areas surrounding the pitches at the training ground.
Ben explains: “We wanted a slightly different approach to tidying up the off-pitch areas.
“These additions bring more power, handling tougher jobs with ease, such as mowing expansive turf or tackling light tillage.
“But comfort is important too and hasn’t been overlooked. So, the New Holland’s Boomer Suite cab has ergonomic controls, air conditioning, and a high-comfort seat, as well as great visibility. The aim is to keep operators focused and fatigue-free.”
Inside, New Holland has added features like the auto PTO system, which turns off the tractor’s PTO when the three-point hitch is raised and reengages when lowered.
which synchronises engine speed with the hydrostatic pedal. It ensures power is delivered only when needed, cutting down on unnecessary noise and fuel use.”
The Ventrac offering from Price Turfcare essentially consists of one traction unit, the 25hp diesel 4520Y. However, with over 30 attachments and accessories this one power unit becomes a versatile device for golf courses, local authorities, caravan parks and landscapers. Not only that, but its ultra-low centre of gravity and light footprint enable 30-degree slope capability and use in wet of boggy areas where more traditional machines are unable to go.
For modern landscaping work, having tools that are tailored towards ease of use and efficiency are non-negotiable, and the latest updates to the Boomer range reflect this.
“Cruise control is now standard on hydrostatic transmission models,” continues Jack. “For those logging long hours, the Servo Hydraulic Assist – minimising the force an operator must apply to pedals - is another welcome upgrade, making pedal operation almost effortless and reducing strain. And then there’s the EZ Speed function,
Two new attachments have been launched for this year: the MZ series brush cutting mower and the HE series power grapple.
The MZ480 is designed to take down the toughest overgrowth. Its two ultra heavy spindle drives and 13mm thick breakaway blades and hinged front gate enable material up to 7cm to be fed directly into the blades. With a 1.2m width of cut it is perfectly matched to the tractor’s power output and drive train and can get into tighter overgrown spaces.
“So, we’ve gone for the SXG327 with the collector on the back, and the suction is fantastic. It keeps everything very tidy when we’re cutting, and it can get into every area we need it to. The team was thrilled when we got one, and they were all really happy to work with it.”
Beyond aesthetics, the SXG delivers significant time savings, especially during peak growth seasons. “Instead of raking up excess grass, the SXG collects as it cuts. It’s a game-changer, particularly in the spring when the growth really takes off, and you’re cutting the off-pitch areas for the first time.”
The TGs are the workhorses of the grounds team, he says:
“They’re incredibly versatile. We don’t need a specialist tractor for every job because we
“We’ve been using the TXG for many years with the under-slung mower, which doesn’t collect, and we really wanted to improve the presentation.
can just switch the implement and keep going. We use them for aeration, pitch maintenance, renovations, and seeding.”
The TH series plays a vital role in handling bulk materials, moving essential equipment, and assisting with pitch renovations.
Working with local ISEKI dealer Ernest Doe, Ben wanted to address the weight of the machines for the Portman Road stadium and decided to use a cabless tractor on the pitch with Galaxy flotation turf tyres to eliminate any wheel marks.
“We’ve got two Isekis at the stadium—a TXG for smaller jobs like pulling trailers and a slightly larger 35hp TH for more demanding tasks,” Ben explains.
“The TH is fitted with galaxy turf tyres to minimise the impact on the pitch because we sometimes put a small seeder on the back of it.”
New Holland
Ventrac
Bobcat
Case Study
Ventrac’s HE200 power grapple is designed to lift, clamp and move heavy materials. Using second auxiliary hydraulics, the grapple opens and closes, curls, crowds and dumps while the tractor hitch arms manage lift and lower. The open bottom design allows dirt and small debris to fall through whilst securely gripping logs, rocks and brash.
All Ventrac attachments are designed and manufactured inhouse, specifically to utilise the unique quick Mount System.
Bobcat offers three compact tractor platforms – the 1000, 2000 and 4000 series – which feature nine models from 24 to 58hp designed to meet the varying needs of customers in Europe.
The Bobcat compact tractor range offers the option to choose
between manual and hydrostatic transmissions, three-point hitch with telescopic or quick lower links and open canopies (ROPS) and cabs. Specification includes air conditioning (cab models), a suspended seat, an adjustable steering wheel, linked pedal and intuitive ergonomic controls.
Tractors can be equipped with front, mid and rear connections and power take-offs. Features include an independent PTO, auto-PTO; PTO Cruise, HST Cruise or Draft control ensuring optimum productivity and uptime.
The proven Bob-Tach system comes as standard on all machines with the front-end loader option, enabling users to switch easily between different Bobcat attachments to carry out multiple jobs. Fuel consumption is kept to a minimum thanks to
the Eco PTO feature, while the linked pedal ensures optimum driving performance from the efficient three-cylinder engine. All models have four-wheel drive as standard.
Daily maintenance is simple thanks to the one-piece engine cover.
Kioti CK30 series models can be supplied either as practical open platform ROPS, or with spacious air-conditioned factory cabins.
The Kioti CK30 series is available in 25, 35, 40 and 50hp models with twin pedal three-range HST transmission for ease of driving.
Models above 35hp are powered by a Kioti CRDI three-cylinder diesel engine, designed to be economical and quiet to use, with a DPF that will self-clean or can be set to regenerate manually upon demand.
Powering up
As demand grows, and implements get bigger and better, as does the fleet of Kubota tractors for sports turf maintenance company Southern Ground Care.
Established in 2012 by Keith Petley, later joined by his son Lewis, the reliability and ease of operation has seen the company loyal to the brand from the outset – now with an L2-602, two L2-622s and most recently an M6-131 joining the pack to provide the power to operations at schools, football and cricket clubs along the south coast.
“We currently have three tractors from Kubota’s L-Series, offering the ideal power to weight ratio for the vast majority of implements we use from general maintenance to end-of-season renovations on football and cricket pitches.
“These have given us outstanding reliability and are intuitive and comfortable to operate,” Keith says.
Lift capacity is a maximum of 1100 kg at the link arm ends. If a larger rear linkage lift is required, this is offered by the heavier chassis Kioti DK20 series models that have similar features.
Kioti supply the tractors with a full choice of tyres for turf or allterrain work. The choice is yours and the Kioti team and dealers are on hand to assist you with your choice.
All Kioti tractors are supplied with a factory seven-year, 5000 hour warranty. The first two years are comprehensive and the remaining five years cover the engine and driveline main components.
The latest addition is an M6-131 equipped with turf tyres.
Lewis explains, “We found ourselves hiring an M5 when we needed to utilise the heavier kit.
“The turf tyres on our M6 spread the weight really well, avoiding unnecessary compaction and we find the tread is not too aggressive even when working on slightly softer ground.”
With workload ramping up, the team have also invested in GPS systems for all four tractors to optimise efficiency.
“We thought it would be good for spraying but we’ve reaped the benefits of it with nearly everything we do! It speeds up the operations, improves the accuracy for operations like seeding, aeration and even mowing, and means that less experienced members of the team can go into every task with confidence.”
“We’re also assisted by the fantastic team at Rod Gaskin who are quick to offer us help and support, together with taking care of our routine servicing to avoid any costly downtime. The back-up with Kubota is second to none” he adds.
Tim Gatcum runs a successful landscaping business in Hampshire with a growing list of clients requiring paddock maintenance for up to 15 acres of land at a time.
The power requirement from his only tractor is, therefore, not huge. But with a wide geographical spread of customers, plus a desire to recruit more, road speed is as important – if not more crucial – than horsepower.
From topping, rolling and harrowing to carting horse manure, the work is varied, so Tim has chosen a new 126hp John Deere 6M 125 with a 623M loader to do the job.
“We do a fair bit of roadwork – some of our clients are up to 30 miles away – so the 50km/h transmission was a big reason we chose this model,” Tim explains. “The previous 6100 M we had was limited to 40km/h. This one actually does 55km/h, and you really notice that difference when you’re sat on the A3 trying to get to a job.”
To suit the demands of his mixed workload, Tim opted for a carefully-chosen set of factory-fitted features when specifying the tractor. The AutoQuad Plus gearbox was key, but the front PTO and hitch will allow for front-mounting the mower in the future.
He also specified triple link suspension, front fenders, and an increased payload option –all designed to improve road comfort, performance and efficiency. A John Deere 623M loader is also fitted for manure loading and moving bulky materials on landscaping jobs.
While the increase in top speed was the main selling point, Tim appreciated that he could upgrade without overcomplicating things.
“We didn’t need all the highend spec of the 6R, and the 6M offered the right balance. It’s simple, reliable, and doesn’t overwhelm you with features we don’t use. I tend to use it the most, but because it’s simple to
operate there are no problems with one of the team jumping on it whenever required.”
The tractor sees regular use pulling a 2.5m Teagle topper, a light roller, and occasionally a 10-tonne trailer. “It hasn’t had a full load behind it yet, but it’s handled everything we’ve asked of it so far,” says Tim, who ordered the new 6M as soon as it was launched in June 2024 and picked up his machine in April.
Inside the cab, the updated corner post display has taken some adjustment, but overall, the setup remains familiar.
“The only thing I’d change is the storage – they replaced the old box with a tray, which isn’t as useful. It’s a small thing, but I miss that.”
After more than 20 years in business, Tim knows what works. “The 6M 125 is quick, comfortable, and does everything I need it to without the fuss. For what we do, it’s spot on.”
CRDI engine tractors are supplied as standard with features including automatic pto, cruise PTO and cruise HST.
Kioti
2-Wheel Tractor Solutions from Award-Winning KÖPPL
Renowned for excellence, awardwinning German manufacturer KÖPPL offers a dynamic range of 2-wheel tractors and interchangeable attachments, designed to streamline groundscare operations by reducing the need for multiple machines—cutting down both storage demands and operational costs and are available in the UK through PSD Groundscare’s dealer network.
The Hydro Compact Easy is a space-saving, highly adaptable unit ideal for professional, yearround use. Its modular design supports a wide selection of powerful attachments, making it suitable for even the most challenging conditions.
From weed clearing and leaf blowing to snow removal, this compact machine handles it all.
It also includes specialized tools for maintaining synthetic surfaces, such as brushes and sweepers.
The KÖPPL Multitalent is a robust and flexible 2-wheel implement carrier built for yearround professional use. It delivers high performance across tasks like mowing, sweeping, soil cultivation, and snow clearing. With quick-change attachments and a compact, durable build, it’s the ideal all-in-one solution for efficient, reliable groundscare.
Additionally for more intensive, professional-grade tasks, the Compact Light and Compact Comfort models provide robust performance and durability. These machines are engineered to excel in demanding environments, including steep terrain, with various attachments for mowing and clearance work.
The Luchs Hydro is built for heavy-duty landscaping and intensive applications such as stone burial. Its narrow, powerful design ensures outstanding manoeuvrability and flexibility—making it ideal for tight spaces and demanding groundscare tasks.
E-Power: Clean, Quiet, Efficient KÖPPL battery power offers an eco-friendly version of the highly regarded Compact Easy power unit.
The Compact Easy E-Drive offers a solution for operating a range of landscaping and groundwork attachments suitable for professional use.
Key features of the Compact Easy E-Drive include:
• Available with EGO or STIHL battery packs
• Handlebar tilt can be adjusted to body height without tools.
• Infinitely variable speed control via rotary handle.
• PTO shaft can be engaged while driving.
• Compact and short design.
• Choice of attachments.
Benefits of E-Power machines:
• Quieter operation – ideal for public and residential areas
• Lower vibration levels –helps protect operator health
• Eco-friendly – reduced emissions and carbon footprint
• Cost-effective – lower running costs compared to fuel-powered units
• No fuel storage required –safer and more convenient
PSD Groundscare Enquiry 38
Case Study
Contractor’s choice
It’s fair to say that if you have a demanding job to do in a tricky location, Ray Britland Contracting will be able to handle it.
The Cheshire-based business offers grounds maintenance services nationally, including vegetation management and site clearance. Clients include highways authorities, principal contractors for some of the largest infrastructure projects and government-led bodies such as the Environment Agency.
Since 1998, Reform tractors have been a vital part of the armoury, as Ray Britland explains: “Much of our work is on extreme terrain where conventional tractors are just not suitable.
The ability of the Reform tractor to work safely and efficiently on steep banks, rough ground or wet areas is essential for what we do.”
Ray Britland Contracting now has 25 Reform tractors in its fleet.
“We have a variety of models, right up to the top specification Metrac H75 Pro and the 95hp Metrac H95,” Ray explains.
Given the demanding nature of the work carried out, Ray is clear about the advantages of the Metrac design over a
conventional tractor: “We would not be without their exceptional ability on banks, coupled with the four-wheel steer, with its choice of five steering modes, which makes for improved safety as well as manoeuvrability.”
The business makes the most of the standard front and rear threepoint linkages, fi tting seeders, scarifiers and collectors, winter maintenance equipment, sprayers and side arm fl ails as well as mowers.
“They are extremely versatile and allow us to secure contracts that simply couldn’t be done with any other machine, such as maintaining embankments from 4m to 40m width on the M6 Toll Road and fl ood banks on the River Severn,” Ray points out.
“We’ve even carried out sports pitch work for our local authority due to their light tread,” he says.
“Public sector budget cuts mean that forecasting is more difficult these days but the Reform Metrac will remain at the heart of our fleet,” comments Ray.
“New solutions have come along but can’t compare with its productivity. On large swathes of grass, each machine could cut 30,000sqm of tall rough grass in a day, which would be the work of at least four remote control mowers.”
Debris clearance a breeze with the Imants RotoBlast
Keeping sports areas and parks free of debris is even more of a challenge. Meet this task with the Imants RotoBlast, tractor mounted blower from Campey Turf Care Systems, and it becomes more of a breeze than a chore.
Typically used for clearing greens and tees, fairways, pathways and other sports turf areas, The RotoBlast is designed to move leaves, grass clippings, thatch, litter and other unwanted surface debris from any area that requires clear access or needs to be kept tidy.
Adding the RotoBlast to your maintenance fleet, delivers a lightweight machine, weighing only 100kgs which can be lifted and moved by the operator with ease when unhitched from the tractor.
It is equipped with a 3,750-rpm blower that produces an air velocity of 130m3/ min. and has been designed with the practical user experience at the forefront.
Attached by a 3-point linkage, the powerful blower is mounted on a wheeled chassis to enhance its ability to follow contours on undulating terrain whilst maintaining a constant nozzle
height above the ground. There is also an option to invert the wheels and revert to a fully mounted operation.
It has a capacity of 300m2/min with an operating speed of 0.6 -6.2mph, requiring only 25 -50 hp tractor power.
The Imants RotoBlast has proved a popular addition to the portfolio of exclusive products from Campeys including the Koro ® FIELD TOPMAKER ® , ShockWave, SandCat and RotoKnife.
Campey Turf Care Systems Enquiry 40
A powerful backpack blower from Makita
Makita’s UB004C 36V Battery Backpack Blower is easy and comfortable to use, delivering outstanding levels of air volume and blowing force and is powered by the Makita PDC1200 or PDC1500 portable power packs to achieve excellent runtimes.
The powerful and versatile UB004C has a variable speed trigger with cruise control and three speed modes to regulate the maximum blowing force, allowing it to be used for a wide range of applications.
In the highest setting it delivers a blowing force of 25 newtons (N) and an air volume of up to 20.9m3 per minute (in boost mode).
The UB004C also features a boost mode that provides 28N of
blowing force for a limited time. The new blower has a telescopic nozzle and depending on the user requirements, it can be fitted with three different nozzle ends.
The UB004C is powered by either the Makita PDC1200 or PDC1500 ‘Connect X’ portable power packs. These backpackmounted power sources feature 33.5Ah and 43.5Ah batteries respectively and can be used with a wide range of Makita’s twin 18V (36V) LXT or 40VMax XGT tools as well as machines like the UB004C, that have a direct connection.
Using the PDC1500, the UB004C has a continuous runtime of up to 200 minutes, which provides ample trigger time for a typical day’s work. For ease of use,
The NEW AMAZONE Profihopper has earned its colours
More compaction built-in for maximum work rates and less emptying.
there is a clear and simple to read battery-level gauge on the grip. The backpack configuration of the UB004C means that the weight of the battery and machine is comfortably distributed across the user’s shoulders, back and waist meaning it can be used for longer without fatigue.
The backpack harness has been redesigned from previous similar models to provide a further reduction of stress on the user’s shoulders.
It also features an adjustable control grip to suit the user’s size and preferred working posture with 180mm of forward and backward movement and 180º of left to right adjustment.
Makita UK Enquiry 41
Look out for the NEW rebranded range of AMAZONE Groundcare machines - same outstanding build quality and engineering - updated in the Green and Orange AMAZONE colours.
Take the Profihopper PH1250 and PH1500 self-propelled machines - wet or dry grass, long or short, collect or mulch, the proven Profihoppers do it all.
Don’t compromise - choose the AMAZONE Profihopper that comes with a unique auger conveying system for all weather operation and less emptying.
Contact the AMAZONE Team on: 01302 751 200.
SVR 1500 proves vital for synthetic surface strategy
Stoke City FC’s long-standing Grounds Manager, Andy Jackson, believes that synthetic pitches demand more attention than people might expect – and that’s exactly why the Syn-Pro by SISIS SVR 1500 has become an essential part of his maintenance regime at the training ground.
“We carry out around eight to ten hours of maintenance work each week on our synthetic pitch,” says Andy, who has been with the club for over 30 years.
“People forget that synthetic pitches require a lot more maintenance than they think. But if you stay on top of it and do it properly, it can make a huge difference to the longevity and quality of the surface.”
The SVR 1500 – a two-in-one deep cleaning and decompaction machine – plays a central role in that strategy. Part of Syn-Pro by SISIS range, the SVR 1500 has been in regular use at Stoke’s
training ground for the past two years, and Andy has been thoroughly impressed.
“We wanted a machine that was robust, simple to use and gives us the quality finish that we require. The SVR 1500 cleans the surface, distributes the rubber evenly, and leaves a good finish.”
Used primarily in the spring and summer months when conditions are dry, the SVR 1500 is ideal for ensuring the rubber doesn’t clump together. It also allows Andy’s team to carry out both light and deep cleans as and when needed.
For Andy, usability is just as important as performance. “I don’t want something that takes hours to set up with lots of buttons or settings.
“With this machine, it’s just so simple – If we don’t want to go too deep, we don’t have to. It’s simple to set the machine to how you want it.
CLEAN UP
“When you’ve got a big team, it’s important that the machines we use are staff friendly.”
The SVR 1500’s effectiveness in removing debris also came as a surprise. “I was shocked when I first looked at the baskets at the back of the filters. I didn’t realise how much debris it was collecting – and that prompted us to use it even more regularly.”
Beyond the machine’s contribution to synthetic surface management, it aligns well with Andy’s wider philosophy in terms of longevity and sustainability.
Stoke City FC is proudly pesticide-free – a decision made over a decade ago and one that continues to challenge and inspire the grounds team.
“If something’s got a shelf life of 10 years, can we get 12 years out of it? Can we get 14 years? That’s the aim.
“Because it’s a massive job to take a synthetic carpet out and put a new one in and then recycling that carpet is not easy.
“So, we want to expand the life of the synthetic pitch as much as we can – and the SVR 1500 helps us do that.
“For me, having a good support network is crucial – from fertilisers to machinery to line marking. You’ve got to have the right people around you, and the right tools in the garage. And sometimes, the hardest thing is doing nothing. Just looking at the pitch and saying: today, she just needs a rest.”
With Andy’s passion for sustainable practices, and topquality playing surfaces, it’s no surprise the SVR 1500 has become a mainstay in Stoke City FC’s maintenance plan.
SISIS Enquiry 43
Redexim pairing supports Worcester Warriors
There’s an overwhelming ‘onwards and upwards’ spirit overarching operations at Sixways Stadium, home of the Worcester Warriors.
The positivity of the club spirit has been matched by investment in the facilities, with a pair of machines from Redexim’s award-winning artificial portfolio joining the armoury of Head Groundsman Jeff Green.
The club has endured a challenging few years but continues to offer a Sports Stadia for all. Sixways Stadium is home to various RFU events as well as local and community sports, including being home to two local football clubs utilising the pitches and training facilities at Sixways for fixtures.
Across the two sites are two grass pitches, one full-size 3G pitch, one smaller 3G pitch at the indoor training centre and a further 3G pitch at the main stadium, uniquely installed with GEO X-TRE 60 infill from Limonta Sport.
The conversion of the surfaces from rugby to football, along with the new infill material which includes sustainable coconut fibres, sparked the recent purchase of a Speed-Clean 1700 and Base-Rake from Redexim.
The Redexim Speed-Clean is a land-driven sweeper that effectively lifts and separates infill from contaminants in a single pass. At 1.7m wide, it is wider than the club’s previous sweeper, presenting a significant time saving in enhancing surface cleanliness and safety.
Jeff is utilising the Speed-Clean on a weekly basis and has seen a dramatic decrease in both compaction and the amount of contaminants being collected.
When conditions allow, the weekly work with the SpeedClean will be complemented with a pass of the Redexim Base-Rake after every 10 hours of play.
Redexim Enquiry 44
‘J’ Nozzle option makes exceptional blowers indispensable A Trilo proves multipurpose in name and nature
A Trilo Multipurpose is proving to be exactly that, by name and by nature, for the team at Highfield and Brookham School.
Delivered in February 2025, the M3 was brought in to replace an existing Trilo S3 vacuum sweeper enabling Grounds Manager Jasper Marks and the team to not only conduct leaf clearance, but also scarification and cut and collect tasks around the 500 acres of school grounds and estate.
Jasper took over the head role in 2022, having worked at the co-educational school as a groundsman since 2019, and is currently supported by a team of three grounds staff and a parttime gardener.
On the border of West Sussex, Surrey and Hampshire, the site is densely tree-populated which meant that the Trilo machine had always been a firm favourite on the fleet.
This opinion looks set to stay with their latest purchase, bringing new-found versatility and productivity to maintenance tasks around the calendar.
He explains, “The S3 was a fantastic machine, robust and efficient, which would be used for leaf collection, road sweeping and general clearance of clippings and debris over the autumn and winter months.
“I then discovered the Multipurpose M3, which was capable of doing everything the S3 could, with the addition of flail and scarifying shafts to cut or scarify and collect all with one unit. It’s transformed the Trilo into a machine that we can fully utilise all year round.”
While only a matter of months since the M3 was installed by dealers Lister Wilder and Trilo’s Jeremy Vincent, it is already demonstrating its key trait –versatility!
“We have a 9-hole golf course on the estate where the Trilo has been used to assist with cut and collect of the roughs. The large 3m3 hopper means we can cut for longer without having to make as many trips to our green waste area to empty.
“It’s keeping us productive, for longer.” Jasper continues, “After that, we equipped it with the scarifier shaft for use on our sports pitches.
“We previously hired a machine for this which often meant we were scarifying in less than idea conditions. Now we can do it ourselves whenever the weather or play schedule allows which will bring huge improvements to pitch quality.”
“What also really impressed me was the service we received from Jeremy. While the machine, in principle, is not wildly different from the S3 we were using before, no corners were cut with the handover & installation to ensure the team were confident and would get the very best out of the machine.”
“We traded in one machine and gained three in return, but needed to find no extra space in the shed as the footprint is near enough identical” he added. “It’s going to become a pivotal part of the team as we continue to drive up standards for our students and wider community to enjoy.”
Trilo
Renowned as class-leading blowers, Wiedenmann’s Whisper Twister, and its much bigger sister machine, the Mega Twister are especially popular with councils, contractors, golf courses and estate managers because of their versatility.
From storm and leaf clearance to presentation duties after cutting or drying out damp areas, they can be employed across the whole year, working solo or in tandem with other equipment.
The Whisper has a very respectable 200 m³ per minute worth of ‘blow’ at 50 m per second and 180° of swivel.
The Mega, boasts air output of 390 m³ per minute and 220° of rotation. They take their names from Wiedenmann’s superquiet patented whisper turbine system allowing operation outside residential areas, school and hospital grounds without adding noise.
Whether rear or front mounted depending on tractor capability, operators comment that their turning circles are first rate, making travel around tree lined or garden areas easy; ultimately the need for fewer tractor movements is kinder to the turf and quicker for the operator.
This year Wiedenmann launched a ‘reverse’ nozzle
attachment for trailed versions of both machines, now available to order from Wiedenmann UK dealers.
The new ‘J’ shaped nozzle reverses the airflow and allows the operator to focus on edging work, helping clear paths, verges and tricky areas.
By positioning the nozzle at the side of a verge or roadway and pointing below ‘the body’ of the blower, the directional nozzle ensures that the entire width of a path is cleared of leaves or debris in a single pass.
Usefully, it can also target residue debris or leaves underneath the machine.
Now the operator no longer needs to make a second trip to tidy up any ‘mini’ trail of debris left behind under the tractor.
This new time-saving option means for this operation, there is less needed to swivel and can be fitted retrospectively and easily to existing Whisper and Mega Twister blowers.
The standard straight nozzle can be converted in just a few simple steps.
Wiedenmann UK also offers a ‘goose neck’ option plus enhancements for hydraulic and electric swivel.
Wiedenmann UK Enquiry 48
OAS launches rotary spreader
Origin Amenity Solutions has unveiled the latest addition to its precision turf care range, the Appli-Tec 2000 Rotary Spreader, which has a 25kg hopper capacity.
Designed for accuracy, consistency, and even distribution of granules, this market-leading spreader sets a new standard for greenkeepers, grounds managers, and sports pitch professionals.
The Appli-Tec 2000 rotary spreader uses a patented helical cone system to provide turf managers with an accurate, consistent, and even distribution of granules across all turf areas.
Robustly constructed with an improved build and stainlesssteel frame, the Appli-Tec 2000 combines durability with enhanced functionality and is regarded as a
Whether used on golf courses, football pitches or public amenity grounds, users can expect exceptional results that support healthy, high-performing turf.
As one of the UK’s leading providers of turf management solutions, OAS brings together a portfolio of industry-recognised brands and technical expertise to support the management of natural turf and landscape environments.
With a strong focus on sustainability, innovation, and customer support, OAS delivers tailored solutions to the UK’s amenity, sports and landscape sectors.
Kress KR237E – A game changer for golf and sports turf maintenance
With the launch of the Kress KR237E, robotic mowing technology has taken a bold step forward, bringing a professionalgrade solution to the world of golf courses and large sports turf fields. This next-generation mower is designed not just to automate turf maintenance but to elevate its quality, efficiency, and consistency.
The KR237E boasts a top mowing speed of 1.0 m/s –significantly faster than typical robotic mowers – allowing it to cover expansive grounds quickly without compromising precision.
Its enhanced 110W cutting motor, a 60% increase in power, enables it to slice cleanly through dense, heavy turf, maintaining immaculate playing conditions even in the most demanding areas.
Where this machine truly shines is in its adaptability. With a cutting height range of 10 to 60mm, the KR237E is versatile enough to manage both manicured fairways and tougher roughs with ease. Its improved cutting height adjustment system eliminates jamming issues, ensuring uninterrupted operation and consistent results throughout its run.
What sets the KR237E apart is its all-in-one capability – one machine is powerful and versatile enough to mow an entire golf hole, from fairway to rough, without the need for a separate fairway kit. This reduces the need for multiple machines and streamlines turf maintenance logistics.
The KR237E isn’t just a new mower – it’s a smart investment in efficiency and turf health. For golf course sports turf managers, it offers a reliable, high-performance solution that meets the evolving demands of modern groundskeeping.
With Kress’s latest innovation, the future of large-scale robotic mowing is not just arriving – it’s already here.
Positec Enquiry 51
Much has changed since Wayne Pugsley of 5 Shires Tree Surgery ventured into offering arb, woodland and forestry services over 30 years ago, but the one constant has been his choice of woodchipper – and for that, it’s always been GreenMech!
More than three decades on, and now onto his seventh machine, the Droitwich-based arborist explains why reliability, familiarity and outstanding service has kept him loyal to the brand.
Wayne’s most recent purchase is a 40hp EVO 165P complete
in March 2025.
“The EVO is by some distance the best machine they’ve produced. The power, performance and value for money you get is outstanding.” He continues, “I work with a number of subcontractors who enjoy using the EVO 165P. Meanwhile, I enjoy the peace of mind that the machine is bulletproof and isn’t going to let them down on a job!”
For Paul Nolan and his team at Toberona Stables in Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford, the Avant 423 compact loader has proven to be an indispensable asset in managing their busy equine operations.
With such a busy operation, efficiency is key, and the Avant 423 has become essential in helping the team streamline daily tasks.
The Avant 423, a compact and highly versatile compact loader, is used extensively throughout the year at Toberona Stables.
The machine’s hydrostatic drive system, with just a forward and reverse pedal, makes it incredibly easy to operate, even for those without prior machinery experience.
The Avant 423’s compact size makes it ideal for manoeuvring in tight spaces, such as in the stables or along narrow pathways, yet it packs enough power to perform a range of tasks efficiently.
One of the standout features of the Avant 423 is its versatility, made even more efficient by its range of attachments. Paul and his team use several attachments to tackle the different tasks required on a horse farm.
Avant Enquiry 55
with new SMART FEED remote system – which was delivered by GreenMech’s Neal Hussey
As one extensive improvement project comes to an end, another unexpectedly begins at Stockport’s Reddish Vale Golf Club – and once again, Johnsons Sports Seed is playing a key role in recovery and renovation.
For the past few seasons, J Premier Tee has been transforming tees and aprons, bringing big benefits to play and praise for Head Greenkeeper Aaron Watkinson and his team.
However, widespread flooding over the New Year period means a major recovery programme is now underway on the fairways – with the tried and tested Johnsons J Fairway ready to come to the rescue!
Ticking all of the boxes has been a combination of J Premier Tee and J Fairway from the Johnsons Sports Seed range.
Featuring 4turf tetraploid ryegrass, J Premier Tee is ideal
for rapid establishment on highwear areas and sustainable shade tolerant tees. For certain tees, Aaron also incorporated additional strength and drought tolerance with the 100% fescue blend of Johnsons J Fairway.
It’s proven performance on the tees and aprons is now set to be extended as the team embark on a large-scale flood-recovery project.
Alongside their hard work, it’s been the resilience and performance of Johnsons J Fairway that has underpinned their recovery. The new J Fairway mix has been carefully selected to help restore Reddish Vale’s traditional heathland character and deliver cost-effective, intelligent turf management.
Johnsons Sports Seed Enquiry 70
BAGMA’s paperless solution
The British Agricultural Garden Machinery Association (BAGMA) have teamed up with the UK paperless experts, Culverdocs to launch a new digital solution for recording machinery installations.
Months of development have culminated in the introduction of a mobile and desktop app with the capability to simplify
and streamline the recording and storage of installation paperwork and other administrative tasks.
Available to all valid BAGMA registered installers, members and non-members, the introduction of the ‘Paperless Solution’ signifies the end of long-winded, handwritten triplicate forms which often end up torn or
muddy at the end of a handover & installation session.
Launched in September, dealerships and manufacturers around the country are already discovering the vast improvement in efficiency, accuracy and accountability when delivering machines.
