This pilot initiative is designed to strengthen the future of cricket by attracting and supporting more aspiring grounds professionals.
With the demand for skilled grounds managers growing, the scheme aims to provide apprentices with not only the technical knowledge required for cricket-specifi c turf care but also the essential support they need to develop their careers.
It also aims to address broader industry challenges such as workforce retention and succession planning by making apprenticeships a more structured and attractive career pathway.
At the same time, it provides additional support for existing grounds professionals, ensuring they have the resources and expertise to mentor and develop the next
generation effectively. The GMA will provide tailored cricket-specific online courses to supplement apprentices’ learning, as well as bespoke webinars designed to enhance their knowledge and better prepare them for a career in cricket grounds management.
Apprentices will also have access to GMA membership, unlocking a range of benefits including the GMA Member Assistance Programme - a 24hour confidential counselling and wellbeing servicealongside online technical resources, salary advice and guidance, legal consultation and much more.
The ECB Pitch and Grounds Advisor, Andy Mackay, will play a central role in the pilot, acting as a key point of contact for employers seeking advice on apprenticeship support.
Andy will also work with stakeholders to develop an information and support hub, and resources to help promote grounds management as a career, laying the foundation for an allrounded scheme in the future.
Jason Booth, Chief Operating Officer at the GMA, said: “Apprentices are the future of the grounds management industry and providing them with the right support is essential to achieving high standards across professional cricket.
Andy Mackay said apprenticeships were a fantastic way to develop skills and discover talent, whilst having the potential to set people on the path to a rewarding and enjoyable career.
The GMA Enquiry 27
Howardson Group bids farewell to Roger Moore
After 17 years of outstanding service, Roger Moore has announced his retirement from the Howardson Group.
Roger has been a familiar and respected figure within the company. Having joined as a Customer Manager, his role evolved to encompass sales, marketing, and customer support, making him an integral part of the business.
Over the years, he has built strong relationships with key
industry organisations, including the GMA, BIGGA, SAPCA, EBA, SBA, WBA, CGBA, and numerous representatives from cricket, football, rugby, tennis, and croquet, as well as the press.
Alongside his colleagues, particularly Alison Pickering, Roger has played a leading role in organising and developing events in the UK and abroad, dealer days, press days, export dealer events, and the company’s brochures, websites, and overall marketing strategy.
The highly regarded seminar programmes for bowls, cricket, croquet, football, and rugby have been running for over 20 years, and Roger and his team have continuously refi ned and enhanced them.
When SISIS was acquired in early 2011, Roger was instrumental in developing a detailed 90-day integration plan to successfully merge Dennis and SISIS - a signifi cant challenge that had never been undertaken before.
As a senior team member, Roger’s wisdom and experience have played a crucial role in the company’s growth, contributing to an almost ninefold increase in sales during his tenure.
Managing Director Megan Oliver, Chairman Ian Howard, and everyone at Howardson Group extend their sincere gratitude to Roger for his dedication and contributions over the years and wish him all the best in his retirement.
Howardson Group Enquiry 28
The GMA has joined forces with the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) to launch the ‘Apprenticeship Support
designed to enhance the experience of grounds people apprentices in First Class Counties.
Remarkable business growth with the ISEKI TG6507
Over the last two years, Lincolnbased Greenstripe Groundcare has seen remarkable growth, largely thanks to the addition of the ISEKI TG6507 compact tractor.
Owner James Pask attributes the company’s increased productivity, efficiency, and premium client base directly to the versatility and performance of this high-specification machine.
By incorporating the TG6507 into daily operations, Greenstripe Groundcare has expanded its services, allowing them to take on more high-end contracts, including football clubs and cricket grounds.
The ability to attach highquality implements and transport them without using a trailer has significantly improved
and fine turf maintenance.
One of the standout features of the TG6507 is its IQ gearbox, which was a key requirement for James when selecting the tractor. The IQ gearbox allows for smooth, responsive shifting on the go, eliminating the need to set speed with pedals or rely on cruise control.
Another key factor in Greenstripe’s growth has been the TG6507’s versatility. The C4+ front loader has significantly expanded the range of tasks the business can undertake.
From cleaning compost heaps to moving logs and loading trailers using the well-designed
joystick controls, it has proven indispensable.
On his experience overall, James concludes: “I absolutely would recommend the TG6 range, whichever part of the range is suitable for your needs. It has been a phenomenal tool to have.
“It’s manoeuvrability, fuel efficiency, what you can do with the soft controls in the cab when you want to fine-tune what you’re doing with your implement on the back, the versatility of the C4+ front loader, and it is just so reliable as well.
“It hasn’t let me down ever. So, I would say to anybody thinking, actually I need to upscale, should I look at something like this, absolutely go for it.”
ISEKI Enquiry 30
Optimising turf health with Consolidate
With a career spanning 20 years, Jamie Melham, Head Greenkeeper at one of the finest in Sussex, Highwoods Golf Club, brings his experience and collaboration with specialist for Consolidate Turf, Rob Welford, to enhance the health and aesthetics of the golf course.
Jamie’s partnership with Rob Welford from Consolidate Turf started three years ago and has been instrumental in transforming the nutrient management approach at Highwoods. Rob’s
expertise and responsiveness have provided Jamie with confidence and reliable support, and the use of consolidate products played a big part in the presentation of the course, when the club celebrated its centenary year in 2024.
One specific challenge Jamie faced was the inconsistency in fertilizer prill size from a different supplier. Initially, Rob assessed the golf course’s overall plant health, leading to the transition from granular to liquid fertilizers for more consistent results, using
Consolidate Plus to kickstart the greens early in the season.
For the approaches, Jamie maintains a treatment schedule of every three weeks, a practice he also applies during the winter to prevent disease.
In addition to using Consolidate products, Jamie incorporates feedback from the Sports Turf Research Institute (STRI) into his maintenance program.
Consolidate Turf Enquiry 31
Effortless
arboricutural management with the Foxwood T120
The Foxwood T120 off road Towable Chipper is a gamechanger for green space management teams, delivering a highly effective solution and keeping accessibility a top priority.
In today’s fast-paced world where efficiency is key, finding the right tools to manage outdoor spaces is essential.
The Foxwood T120 and T90 are designed for towing behind small utility vehicles. This capability gives access to remote areas, particularly during spring months when wet and muddy conditions can complicate maintenance tasks.
With its lightweight structure and flotation tyres, the Foxwood T120 glides effortlessly over fine turf, even wet, boggy areas, ensuring you can tackle your projects without causing damage to
The adjustable drawbar height further enhances the T120’s versatility, allowing it to be effortlessly paired with nearly any vehicle.
With a chipping capacity of nearly 5 inches, the Foxwood T120 can easily handle most branches, turning them into valuable mulch for Walkways and Beds.
It is not a legal requirement to obtain a chipper license to operate this machine in the UK, making it accessible for everyone.
What sets the T120 apart from traditional PTO chippers is its one-man operation capability. Users can harvest wood chips directly into the buck of their ATV, streamlining the entire process and eliminating the need for multiple vehicles or additional manpower.
Upson Mowers Enquiry 34
The future of turf maintenance is battery
Every organisation is under pressure to cut costs, deliver against sustainability targets, and protect its workers. Kress Commercial battery-operated tools help make that a reality.
The Kress CyberSystem is the fastest-charging, longestlasting battery solution on the market.
Every battery is guaranteed for 3,000 cycles1 making them more cost effective than petrol and oil mix. With 8-minute2
How does battery compare to petrol? Kress CyberPack batteries excel over internal combustion engines, ensuring peak performance across RPMs.
Their unique composition enables high discharge current without compromising cell integrity or longevity. So, you get a powerful tool that can last the distance. Switching to Kress tools also protects your workforce from the health risks associated with fossilfuelled engines.
Kress battery tools reduce vibrations to practically zero,
meaning your workers can work safer, for longer.
Combustion engines create high levels of noise which can cause hearing damage, tinnitus, stress, sleep disturbance, communication difficulties and reduce productivity.
No good for workers using tools every day or people living in the area.
Kress tools reduce noise to minimal levels, so you can work any time of day, even in areas with noise limits, for as long as you need to.
Every organisation stands to gain by transitioning away from petrol to Kress Commercial.
With zero upfront costs, and monthly payments easily offset by the savings on fuel and maintenance, there are immediate financial gains to be made.
Now’s your chance to try out the Kress CyberSystem for yourself. Contact Kress to arrange a fee trial of our Commercial Equipment.
Kress Enquiry 35
Mowers making the right moves
Electric mowers are big news, but there are plenty of choices to increase efficiency and sustainability, Jane Carley reports.
Mower technology continues to move at a pace with manufacturers looking at ways to increase sustainability while maintaining or surpassing the results achieved by current models. Battery power is certainly emerging as a frontrunner, but there are many other credentials that a machine can offer for amenity use.
Developing an electric mower that can challenge diesel equivalents for performance will be the key to their wider adoption. Reesink Group’s Toro Groundsmaster e3200 takes the same rugged chassis, commercial-grade mowing deck and operator controls its predecessor, the Groundsmaster 3200, was known for and makes it electric. All without compromising on power, performance or durability, says the company.
At the heart of this transformation lie 17 HyperCell batteries which
provide an all-day runtime in the most demanding of conditions. The lithium-ion technology incorporates a management system that delivers consistent performance and optimised lifecycle across the extensive life of the machine.
Smart controls optimise energy consumption, ensuring efficient utilisation throughout the day, while real-time monitoring via the InfoCentre keeps operators informed of battery status.
Electric mowers offer significant long-term savings compared to traditional diesel-powered models, Reesink points out. With no motor oil, spark plugs, or filters to change, maintenance costs are reduced considerably.
For less frequent cutting, the Toro LT-F3000 triple flail is designed to offer a superior aftercut in in six-week cycles (four cuts a season) for greater cost effectiveness.
Suitable for areas from the widest open spaces to the narrowest verges, and roadsides with longer grass to recreational fields, this machine can cut longer, wetter and coarser grass in one sweep and with lower operating costs.
A cylinder attachment is an option, expanding its cutting options.
The expansion of the Kubota zero-turn mower range has made the line-up one of the most comprehensive in the market, says the company.
Responding to market demand, the range has increased from two to seven models offering a variety of working widths, discharge options and fuel types to suit all domestic and commercial applications.
Those looking to meet productivity requirements with a sustainable power source can find the answer in Kubota’s Ze electric zero-turn range, with the Ze-421 and larger Ze-481 (1.05 and 1.2m cut) offering new levels of user comfort through reduced noise and vibration during operation.
A recent addition to the range is the Z4-541 – a 1.36m (54in) petrol model which boasts a larger chassis to offer even greater productivity to the pro-consumer market. Hot on its heels is the rear discharge Z4-541RD model, introduced in late 2024, to meet commercial requirements.
Highlights of the established petrol models are the 19hp Z1421 and 22hp Z2-481, which
feature a 1.05m and 1.2m (42 and 48in) side discharge cutting deck respectively, with optional mulching kits available.
In the diesel range, the 26hp ZD-1211 provides comfort and fast working with fuel efficiency.
John Deere’s endeavours in battery-powered mowing machinery are most evident in the golf sector where a lithium battery can replace petrol in two of the company’s walkbehind greens mowers.
For riding mowers, the company launched the allelectric Z370R in 2024 – a zero-turn, 3.2 kWh machine to mow up to two acres on a charge.
Reesink
Kubota
While primarily aimed at the residential market, it shows the direction of travel is offering all professionals the choice of combustion or battery power.
Hybridisation innovation is much further forward for John Deere. While the engine remains petrol or diesel, elements of the riding mowers can be electrified to increase efficiency and reduce the risk of leaks, both of which contribute to a better environmental profile for those using the equipment.
This is evident on the five, brushless electric reel motors on the 6700A E-Cut and 7700A E-Cut which are driven by electrical motors.
The 7700A is Deere’s most popular mower and is used on a range of sports pitches and golf course. The four-wheeler has five quality cutting units and TechControl Display which allows operators to guarantee consistency on every cut.
The three-wheeled chassis on the 6700A offers excellent manoeuvrability and after-cut appearance.
Deere was the first manufacturer to have QA7 hybrids on both threewheel drive and four-wheel drive chassis, including an industry exclusive on the 6700 models.
The electric reel drive system is powered by a 200-amp alternator, which supplies power to the reel motor controllers, which then supply power to the electric reel motors.
Similar to other John Deere products, the TechControl display is the main operator interface with the machine and is programmable by a supervisor to control maximum mowing and transport speeds, as well as engine RPM.
This hybrid solution minimises 90% of the risk of hydraulic leaks by eliminating over 150 hydraulic leak points. Fuel savings of up to 30% are achieved by operating at reduced throttle when mowing compared to PrecisionCut mowers. Noise levels are also reduced by up to 3dB at reduced throttle.
The alternator, controllers, and motors are designed to allow the machine to perform rigorous verticutting applications.
EGO Power Plus is expanding its ride-on range with two new tractor mowers. The twinblade tractor mowers utilise up to six EGO ARC Lithium 56V p ortable batteries, providing the same power and performance as the equivalent petrol machines.
Vince Brauns, Group Product Director at EGO, said:
“Following the success of our zero-turn Z6 range, we wanted to introduce more mowers to ensure we could deliver a product for every user’s needs.
“Users can now cut substantially sized lawns in comfort and with complete confidence in battery longevity.”
The new range includes the TR3800E-B 98cm ride-on collection tractor mower and the TR4200E 107cm ride-on side discharge version.
Both come with twin blades and pressed steel decks to ensure that the mowers combine power and performance with robust durability.
The mowers feature a front mounting that can house up to six EGO batteries and use the company’s Peak Power technology, enabling the machine to draw on the power
Expanding with dependable equipment from ISEKI
Hard Graft Garden Services Limited, located in Scotland, is a family-owned gardening and landscaping business run by Lewis Stuart and his two brothers, Sam and Fraser.
The company needed versatile and dependable equipment to meet the high standards of their clients and to ensure efficient operations throughout the year.
In their quest for reliable machinery, the Stuart brothers explored various options and eventually purchased an SXG ride-on mower from ISEKI
UK & Ireland Ltd through local dealer A.T. Best Handlers Ltd, based in Macmerry.
“It was obvious during the demonstration that the ISEKI SXG range offered everything we needed and more” explained Lewis “This was the ride-on mower we were looking for, so we immediately agreed to purchase an SXG324.”
The SXG Range is the ultimate in cut and collection mowers, with the ability to perform exceptionally well even in wet conditions.
Whether you are maintaining your lawn, an estate, or managing multiple contracts, the versatile ISEKI SXG range of mowers excels in cutting and collecting, ensuring a superior finish. Designed, engineered, and built in Japan to offer the most reliable, high quality diesel mower on the market for the most demanding of users.
The SXG mower has proven to be an invaluable asset for Hard Graft Garden Services Limited. Its flexibility, robustness, and comfort have allowed the company to perform a
from all batteries at once. Both models come with the CHV1600E, a 1600W fast charger that fully charges six 10Ah EGO 56V ARC Lithium batteries in as little as three hours.
An LCD control display centrally mounted on the dashboard enables quick and easy adjustments to both travel and blade speeds as well as providing real time data on battery capacity.
Bluetooth connectivity enables the user to remotely monitor machine performance and ensure that batteries are charged and ready for cutting.
A spring-assisted adjuster with eight pre-sets provides cutting heights of 25-100mm.
Driver comfort includes an adjustable spring suspension seat and large, wide tyres which ensure both a smoother ride, added grip and better weight distribution.
range of tasks beyond just mowing and collecting the grass. The accessory options have enhanced the machine’s utility, making it an adaptable and useful tool for maintaining large estates.
The ISEKI SGX range of midmount ride-on collector mowers from 13.5hp to 21.6 hp offers a choice of 650 litre high tip or 590 and 320 litre low tip collectors, with 40″ to 54″ centre discharge decks. It delivers excellent cutting and collection in wet or dry conditions.
ISEKI Enquiry 40
EGO Power Plus
Amazone
LED headlights enable safe use in low-light conditions while a front bumper helps protect the chassis from potential impact damage.
The TR3800E-B 98cm ride-on collection tractor mower has collection or mulch capabilities, with a 300-litre collection box to maximise cutting times.
When grass collection is not required, the TR4200E ride-on side discharge tractor mower offers even greater productivity. It can cover up to two acres on a single charge and has a 107cm cutting width.
The EGO Power+ 107cm
Zero Turn Ride-on Mower is powered by any combination of its 56V ARC Lithium
batteries to deliver the power and performance of a 22hp petrol ride-on mower.
With a battery capacity up to 72Ah and utilising EGO’s proprietary Peak Power+ Technology the Z6 is capable of cutting in up to 10,000m 2 (2.5 acres) on a single charge.
It also uses the industry’s fastest charger allowing for up to six 56V ARC Lithium batteries being charged at the same time. A typical 60Ah setup will charge in just three hours.
Cutting height positions between 2.5cm and 10cm and are easily adjustable with one hand using the ergonomic handle and the mower can sidedischarge, mulch, or collect.
There are three driving modes with four settings, including enhanced travel speed for fast cutting, and turf care mode. The Z6 features a steel deck with anti-scalping wheels, a tow hitch for future accessories such as a trailer.
Amazone’s Profihopper range includes the PH 1250, the PH 1500 and the new PH 1500 Cab. The whole design concept of the Profihopper is designed to have the minimum environmental effect whilst at the same time providing clean and tidy green spaces, explains Amazone’s National Groundcare Sales Manager Richard Wroot.
“The current PH 1250 and PH 1500 are offered with Stage V diesel engines, compliant
even without the addition of AdBlue, and so emissions are at a minimum.
“The PH1250 has manual throttle control and so the engine revs can be set to an appropriate level to suit the task in hand, or whether on the road. On the PH 1500, the engine management system looks after the revs and supplies power on demand.
“The revs are kept to a minimum in road mode, increase when in normal mowing mode but are kept lower when mowing in eco mode which is ideal when scarifying, leaf collecting or in dry conditions. The engines in both models are approved for use with eco-friendly fuels and oils.
“The flexibility of the Profihopper, capable of mowing, mulching, collecting, scarifying and rolling, means that the machine can be used for multiple applications making the purchase of several machines to cover all aspects of green space maintenance unnecessary, this reduces both running costs, manufacturing emissions and disposal costs and concerns.
“The auger collection system is highly efficient thus reducing the horsepower requirement and so again reducing emissions. The system is also very quiet in comparison to other mower collectors and also generates less dust meaning it is very userfriendly in a park environment. Reduced frequency of cuts means that the amount of grass being cut has increased dramatically.
“The horizontal flail shreds the grass into short lengths before being collected by the auger system and then packed into the hopper and so gives a clean, lowpower collection and because of the PowerCompactor system, minimum trips back to empty.”
The Profihopper can also handle a wide range of other tasks from wildflower meadow maintenance, collection of litter and cans, mulching spring
flowering bulb material later on to scarifying and core collection.
When it comes to protecting pollinating insects, both the PH 250 and the PH 1500 are now offered with the option of the InsectGuard which disturbs the grass ahead of the cutting deck to avoid mowing up bees, etc.
The new PH 1500 cab offers an improved driver experience: less noise, less weather impact (both hot and cold) and so increased productivity and less standing time.
The Profihopper has recently enjoyed a change in livery to bring the Groundcare range into the same oreen and orange as the agricultural machinery and all deliveries since December 2024 will be in the new colour scheme.
“So for us it is all about doing more with less and so maximising efficiencies and so reducing investment cost, running costs, environmental impact as well as creating better green spaces for more enjoyment without trailing cuttings everywhere on a campsite or in a park, for example. From a green perspective, in Wales there has been a huge campaign to mow grass more effectively and this has led to the majority of local authorities there investing in the Profihopper in order to get the advantages it offers,” comments Richard.
PSD Groundscare offers a number of ride-on mower options.
The Canycom range of ride-on brushcutters offers a simple design and high level of performance.
All Canycom ride-on brushcutters are 4WD and can easily switch from 2WD to 4WD depending on the ground conditions, therefore are ideal for all-round mowing.
Canycom brushcutters are designed to work in the toughest conditions, effectively clearing long grass, bushes, weeds, bracken and brambles in a variety of sites such as woodland trails and orchards. The 4WD enables ease in operation and maneuverability to ensure high energy efficiency and great results on steep slopes up to 25deg. Tool-less blade change is available on all models except the CM1402 which makes this process quick and easy to complete.
There are no cutter deck belts to adjust or replace making the maintenance and cleaning of the mower easier and quicker and more power is delivered direct to the blades for extra efficiency.
The SABO range of Gladiator ride-on flail mowers are made for tough use on either flat terrain or for demanding mowing on steep slopes with the 4WD models.
The Gladiator ride-on flail mowers offer a highly efficient mowing solution for private and professional use including local authorities and landscaping contractors.
with Cub Cadet
The Cub Cadet range of zero turn mowers are built with the user in mind, offering performance, reliability and optimum efficiency.
Purchasers can choose between traditional lap bar control or Synchro Steer - an innovative steering wheel technology, giving the user maximum control of all four wheels.
Combining the agility of zero turn handling with the ease of steering wheel control, Synchro Steer allows the operator to enjoy increased stability with enhanced precision, to achieve a quality cut on large areas including slopes of up to 20deg.
Both the Enduro series XZ7 L152i (lap bar control) or the Pro series Z9 183id (Synchro Steer) are equipped with powerful and efficient EFI engines from Kohler or Kawasaki and robust steel decks for high performance and durability.
A range of comfort features designed for the operator, include premium seats with high backrests, spring-mounted front wheel suspension and bright LED headlights.
A broad range of accessories are available, including transport trailers, spreaders and snow blades to make the machine an all-season companion.
PSD Groundscare
Case studies
Perfect solution for The Retreats Group Reform Metrac –more than just a mower Expanding fleet at Knock
For Ollie Davies, the groundskeeper and supervisor for The Retreats Group, which encompasses three of the leading luxury hotels in Wales— Twr y Felin Hotel, Roch Castle, and Penrhiw Priory, maintaining these stunning landscapes has become significantly easier since the purchase of a Etesia Hydro 100 ride-on mower.
“The properties are undulating and steep in places,” says Ollie. “My brother used to help me look after the grounds, and when he left, we decided that instead of employing someone else fulltime, we would invest in one of these machines.”
Before the Hydro 100, Ollie managed the extensive lawns using pedestrian mowers—a task that was both time-consuming and physically demanding. “This Etesia saves so much time and money. It is a great bit of kit.”
The Etesia Hydro 100 III ride-on mower is designed for professional users who require top-quality mowing and collection performance in all weather conditions. Powered by an 18hp twin-cylinder Kawasaki engine, it features a modern hydraulic drive transmission with differential lock, a 500-litre grass box, and a cutting deck with rear central ejection for efficient grass collection.
Given the uneven terrain of the properties, Ollie decided on the Hydro 100, known for its differential lock and sturdy design. “With the grounds being so uneven, we went for the Hydro 100 because it has a diff lock and it seemed very sturdy.”
Ollie’s decision was reinforced during a particularly wet demo session. “These pick up the grass in wet conditions, even when it is long. It worked a treat on our
demo; it picked up the grass and didn’t leave a mess, so we were really impressed with it, and we just went from there.
“It is quite undulating and steep, and especially when it is wet, the diff lock comes in handy. As soon as you start feeling it slip a bit, you just engage the diff lock and it doesn’t leave a mess or wheel spin.”
During the peak growing season, Ollie faces the challenge of keeping up with rapidly growing grass. The Hydro 100 has made this task much more manageable.
“If I was on my own and I only had my walk-behind mower, I would be completely swamped with grass and I would just be chasing my tail all the time. So having the Hydro 100 means I can stay on top of things.”
Ollie also appreciates the Hydro 100’s ability to cut and collect grass on formal lawns, ensuring that the grounds remain pristine for guests.
“We don’t want guests to get their shoes clogged with grass and walk it into the castle—it wouldn’t be very popular with the housekeeping staff.”
The ease of adjusting the cutting height is another feature Ollie values. “To change the height of cut, you have something that looks like a handbrake. You just push the thumb button in and set the height using the lever.”
Ollie has also been impressed by the mower’s reliability, even in less-than-ideal conditions.
“Considering how wet it has been over the past year I have never experienced any form of blocking, even if the grass is long and wet.”
For the ultimate in mowing output, versatility and comfort from a machine that is much more than just a mower, the Reform Metrac H60 and H70 from Simon Richard are compact and versatile tractors built for demanding environments, particularly in municipal services.
The design prioritises operator comfort with features like a full glass door for visibility and climate control options. The tractor’s advanced control systems, including a multifunction joystick and central controller, provide flexibility for various tasks, while its planetary gear final drives ensure smooth operation on rough terrain.
Separate hydraulic systems add safety and efficiency, supporting a variety of attachments. Powered by a reliable Perkins engine, it’s designed for yearround use, with an unexpected detail being its ability to handle extreme slopes, which is crucial for the tractor’s origins in mountain agriculture.
A standout feature is the multifunction joystick, integrated into the mechanical drive lever, which allows the selection of front, rear, all-wheel, crab, and offset allwheel steering modes.
This ensures maximum manoeuvrability, especially on slopes and in tight spaces. The hydrostatic drive system offers two speed ranges and two mechanical off-road reductions, controllable via pedal or drive lever, with a maximum speed of 40 km/h, providing fl exibility for different tasks.
The soil-related benefi ts of the Reform Metrac H60 and H70 stem from their design features aimed at minimising soil disturbance and compaction, which are critical for maintaining soil health.
One key feature is the use of wide, low-pressure tyres. These tyres ensure maximum traction while maintaining low ground pressure, which is essential for reducing soil compaction.
Knock Golf Club on the outskirts of Belfast was one of the first in Northern Ireland to adopt the Baroness brand, and close to a decade on from the purchase of their LM2700 and LM315, they now run a fleet of six mowers which executes the majority of their cutting operation.
Lee Eager has been Course Manager for the last 18 years and maintains the challenging 18-hole parkland course with the assistance of a team of five.
“From the purchase of the first two machines, we’ve never looked back” he emphasises. In the years that have followed, Lee has added a second LM315 triple greens mower, along with a GM2800 and GM2810 five-deck rotary mower and LM331 surrounds and trim mower to his armoury.
“Theres two main reasons we remain loyal to Baroness – the first of which is the outstanding service and support we received from our local dealer, Cyril Johnston, and in particular Ian Ellis. Secondly, it’s the performance and quality of the cutting cylinders which, in my opinion, are the best on the market.”
He continues, “All of our mowers deliver pinpoint precision and a sharp cut which is critical for retaining the aesthetics and health of our playing surfaces. They also stay on cut better than any alternative we’ve previously used and weather the challenges of course life – with bedknives lasting as long as four years, and some of our older models delivering day-in, day-out despite having over 2900 hours on the clock.”
REASONS TO CHOOSE CANYCOM:
• Powerful & Efficient - 4WD
• Long grass mowing specialists
• High performing shaft drive cutter deck
• Designed to work in the toughest conditions
• Masters of steep slopes
Turney Group switches on to Ransomes Jacobsen
Turney Group is lighting the way for golf courses, schools, councils, sports pitches, and universities to go green and choose Ransomes Jacobsen lithium power.
Turney Group is a modern machinery dealership with a thriving Pro Groundcare division representing highquality franchises, including Ransomes Jacobsen, Iseki, Stihl, Dennis, and New Holland.
Effective November 2024, Turney’s has gained a significant sales area increase for Ransomes Jacobsen to the South and West of
their existing Oxfordshire, Northamptonshire, and Buckinghamshire territory.
This new development strengthens RJ’s 60-year relationship with Turney’s and comes with great excitement around the British-made electric machine innovation.
The Jacobsen Eclipse 360 Elite has set the new standard for efficiency and performance through exceptional cut quality, impressive battery life, and reduced emissions. It has been demonstrated at prestigious golf courses and sports facilities by Turney Groundcare throughout 2024
Effortless lawn perfection with Mountfield
Meet the Mountfield 2240H Twin, your ultimate ride-on mower for professional and domestic lawn care.
Powered by a STIGA ST 650 635cc twin-cylinder engine and featuring a smooth hydrostatic transmission, this mower delivers power and precision with every pass.
Equipped with contra-rotating twin blades, it effortlessly cuts through grass, collecting clippings into a spacious 320L rear collector.
The 2240H doubles as a leaf vacuum, making autumn clean-ups effortless. A handy collector full alert lets you know when it’s time to
empty—without even leaving your seat!
For those looking to enhance lawn health, the included mulching plug transforms clippings into nutrient-rich mulch.
With seven adjustable cutting heights and a 102cm cutting width, it’s designed for versatility across all lawn sizes.
Built for reliability, the Mountfield 2240H Twin comes with a 5-year warranty and essential extras, including a battery charger, mulching plug, and tow hitch.
Multiple mower attachments from Ventrac
Ventrac’s 4520Y can accept everything from contour following 2.11m fine finish MJ840 rotary mowers, 1.9m MR770 reel mowers and MK960 2.4m wide area rotaries.
There is also an HQ682 roughcut rotary capable of cutting down saplings up to 2.5mm in diameter and various flail mowers. A mower for every need but only one 18.6kW (25hp) diesel power unit to buy and maintain.
The power unit usually contributes a significant amount of value to any commercial mower. As most businesses have to make budgets stretch further, a new look at the type of machine to complete all those mowing tasks is perhaps timely.
As an example of the two extremes of mowing, after seeing Ventrac’s HQ682 1.7m Tough Cut deck in action, many people believe it’s a flail mower as it easily tames tall grass, thick
weeds and heavy brush. It is, in fact, a highly efficient rotary deck with a large front opening that directs material to three heavy-duty counter rotating blades that cut and deposit waste evenly without windrowing.
Using Ventrac’s unique quick mount system, within minutes you can be mowing in the fine cut sector. Numerous customers are opting for the MJ840 Contour Rotary mower with anti-scalp
rollers, multi directional articulation joints and rear discharge.
A low centre of gravity and dual wheel options enable safe operation on slopes up to 30 degrees and the quick mount system ensures more than 30 different attachments can be quickly swapped to make effective and efficient use of the power unit.
Price Turfcare Enquiry 45
and the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive.
For the greenkeepers and sports turf managers, the SLF1 Elite five-reel mower has just landed and is on its way to the finest sporting facilities in the area.
The Aurora Elite is a brandnew and uncompromising Lithium Electric Outfront Mower for commercial spaces from Ransomes, which Turney’s are excited to offer demonstrations of from early 2025.
Turney Group Enquiry 44
Agrovista Amenity’s new landscaping and planting brochure
Agrovista Amenity has announced the release of its latest Landscaping and Planting Brochure, a comprehensive resource designed to support landscaping professionals in creating resilient, sustainable outdoor spaces.
Reflecting Agrovista Amenity’s dedication to eco-friendly practices, the brochure features innovative products and expert advice tailored to enhance plant health and minimise environmental impact.
Ed Smith, Landscape and IVM Manager for Agrovista Amenity, emphasised the company’s commitment to sustainable solutions and forward-thinking practices.
“Landscaping is more than just transforming outdoor environments; it’s about building spaces that thrive sustainably. Every decision we make is grounded in reducing carbon footprints, offering biodegradable solutions, and advancing efficacy,” said Ed.
The new brochure provides indepth technical information on a range of essential products, including:
• Lawn edging and suppressants
• Dressing and growing media
Enhance range creates a happy habitat
As the UK faces a significant decline in its bee and butterfly populations, Wildflower Turf Ltd has provided an innovative solution to help reverse the ecological crisis.
The Enhance range has been designed to provide a lifeline for pollinators. It includes speciesspecific Enhance Bees and Enhance Butterflies products to combat Britain’s dwindling natural habitats and maximize nectar and pollen availability.
James Hewetson-Brown, Managing Director of Wildflower Turf Ltd, said: “The Enhance range was created with the specific goal of supporting and increasing pollinator numbers.
“By incorporating a diverse mix of native wildflowers,
we can provide a sustainable habitat that offers food and shelter for bees and butterflies throughout the growing season and even the majority of the year, if left uncut over the winter months.”
The Enhance range is easy to establish and low maintenance, making it a perfect choice for urban planners, developers, and private landowners looking to make a positive environmental impact.
The product can be used in gardens and parks to roadside verges and corporate landscapes, creating vibrant spaces that contribute to the recovery of pollinator populations.
Wildflower Turf Enquiry 48
• Landscaping controls like herbicides, surface cleaners, and moss control
• Spreaders and sprayers
• Tree planting solutions and irrigation, such as eco-friendly Tree Hugger Guards
• Plant nutrition and pest control options, including fertilisers, fungicides, and insecticides
• Wildflower seeds for enhancing biodiversity
• Ecology and wildlife products
Beyond the product offerings, Agrovista Amenity also provides more information in the brochure about the Agrovista Amenity Academy.
This platform offers product and industry-specific courses, equipping professionals with knowledge to optimise product use and earn CPD points.
Additionally, the brochure underlines Agrovista Amenity’s personalised support network. Every representative is qualified to BASIS and FACTS standards, ensuring that customers receive expert guidance on product selection, application, and landscape management.
Agrovista Amenity Enquiry 47
It’s Spring sowing season
Euroflor flower seed mixes deliver beautiful
BNG habitats.
• A choice of 18 annual and perennial mixes
• 1kg of seed covers up to 333m2
• Encourages and conserves biodiversity
• Minimal maintenance required
Free seed up for grabs with Redexim promotion
Purchase a qualifying disc or dimple overseeder and receive up to £500 of free grass seed with the return of Redexim’s popular ‘Free Seed’ promotion for 2025.
Exclusively available from Redexim Regional Partners until the end of September, the voucher entitles the purchaser to choose from mixtures across DLF’s leading grass seed portfolio.
Once again partnering with the world’s largest grass seed
breeders, DLF, those taking up on the offer have access to mixtures from the marketleading Johnsons Sports Seed, MM and Masterline sports and landscape ranges, alongside their ColourBoost and ProFlora wildflower collections.
Included in the offer is the Overseeder 3D disc seeder, and the SpeedSeed and MultiSeeder from Redexim’s dimple overseeder range.
Redexim Enquiry 50
Praise for MM Tetra Sport
Andy Richards, Grounds Manager at Haileybury, one of England’s leading independent schools, has hailed MM Tetra Sport for setting a new standard in maintaining the school’s extensive sports pitches.
Praising its exceptional performance, Andy highlighted how the innovative seed mixture has delivered outstanding results on high-use pitches, transforming both their resilience and his team’s workload.
Having relied on MM50 and MM60 seed mixtures for years, Andy recently turned his attention to MM Tetra Sport, a winter sports overseeding mixture treated with Headstart GOLD – a performance-enhancing grass seed coating. Impressed by tetraploid ryegrass trial results he’d seen, Andy decided to
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test MM Tetra Sport on one of Haileybury’s high-use rugby training pitches.
The results were astounding. “We sowed Tetra Sport in three directions, then did a fourth pass after two weeks. The germination was really quick - helped by a rainstorm - but even when the weather turned dry, we didn’t need to water it as soon as we would have with traditional ryegrass.”
After four weeks of growing in, the pitch was ready for its first training session. Andy has also noticed other benefits.
“We’ve had no disease on the Tetra Sport pitch, whereas other pitches have had issues like fusarium. It’s ticked every box we could have hoped for.”
MM Seed Enquiry 51
PRO Bent delivers exceptional results
Millbrook Golf Club’s greens are thriving thanks to the use of DSV’s PRO Bent grass seed, which has aligned perfectly with the greenkeeping team’s ethos of continuous improvement.
PRO Bent is part of DSV’s EuroGrass range, a collection of high-performing seed mixtures developed to meet the specific needs of golf courses and sports pitches.
PRO Bent, made up of 100% Browntop bentgrass, is particularly suited for summer and autumn overseeding, as well as species exchange operations.
It offers excellent density, drought tolerance, and is ideal for close mowing—making it perfect for maintaining highquality greens.
The positive feedback from both members and visitors has been overwhelming.
The results have been so impressive that Millbrook has expanded its use of DSV products beyond the greens, applying them to the tees and fairways as well.
DSV Enquiry 54
Premier Wicket supports premier cricket
While the cricket season at Hertfordshire’s Aldenham School may not be long in duration it is intense, with students and community clubs using the facilities for training and fixtures between Easter and early July.
The concentrated play demands fast recovery and outstanding wear tolerance from the surfaces and specifically the grass seed – both of which Grounds and Gardens Supervisor Danny Wells says
they achieve with Johnsons J Premier Wicket.
“The work from the last renovation had clearly paid dividends as, come the end of the season in July, we were still seeing good coverage on the squares and we knew this was only going to improve further with another overseed of J Premier Wicket,” he said.
“We applied the seed at a rate of 60g/m 2 and, assisted by mother nature, we were doing
the first cut in just two and a half weeks.”
J Premier Wicket blends four top-rated perennial ryegrass cultivars to deliver classleading wear tolerance, rapid establishment and visual merit.
High disease resistance can also be expected as standard – something which Danny compliments.
Johnsons Sports Seeds Enquiry 55
Wildflower helps Celtic Manor achieve certified status
It’s been a great start to 2025 for the team at Celtic Manor who, following the introduction of numerous new sustainability initiatives, have received GEO certification.
Part of the overall project saw the establishment of new wildflower areas to bring much-needed food and habitat for pollinators and other insects, along with high visual impact for players and staff alike - all achieved using mixtures from the DLF ColourBoost collection.
Overseeing the conservation projects is Environment and Ecology Stewardship Manager Gary Connell, who has been at the resort for over 25 years.
With little prior wildflower experience, Gary consulted with DLF Regional Technical Manager Ian Barnett on the best and most suitable mixtures for the project.
“Our resort and land provide almost limitless opportunities for wildflowers, but we wanted to focus our efforts on a few areas which could be sustainably implemented, maintained and monitored.
“Ian identified an area near the main entrance and recommended Floral Carpet from the ColourBoost range.”
Floral Carpet is one of nine ColourBoost mixtures, each designed to bring maximum visual impact by incorporating both wild flower and garden flowering species.
For situations where final growing height is important Floral Carpet is ideal, using lower growing season annuals to provide rich blooms throughout the season.
DLF Enquiry 56
TGA warns of further turf price increases
The Turfgrass Growers Association (TGA) has issued a warning about anticipated price increases for turf products in 2025.
Following another year of challenging weather conditions and ever-increasing operational costs, TGA members have reported mounting pressures that will inevitably drive up the overall cost of production, and therefore the sale price of turf.
This continues a trend in recent years, as the industry grapples with the ongoing effects of extreme and variable weather patterns. In 2024,
further widespread wet weather, increased disease management programmes, and in many cases the legacy of the previous winter’s adverse weather have once again driven up production costs across the whole supply chain.
Adding to these challenges, the government’s increase in employers’ National Insurance contributions, effective from April 2025, will significantly affect turfgrass producers.
Richard Owens, Chair of the TGA, said 2024 was another particularly challenging year for the turfgrass industry and added: “Alongside continued weatherrelated disruptions and increasing operational costs, governmentmandated fiscal changes are adding further pressures. Price adjustments are essential to ensure the industry’s viability and ability to meet future demand.”
