Turf Matters September - October 2025

Preparing Winchester College grounds for future politicians, sporting heroes and celebrities

Latest ways of injecting oxygen into the soil

ROBOTIC MOWERS

York Racecourse hails the rise of the machines

Turf Matters

A new annual fixture

Don’t forget Sport…

Distributed every two months to sports turf professionals, independent

The last two months have been a nightmare for many people in certain parts of the country and my heart goes out to everyone dealing with the aftermath of unprecedented flooding and devastating erosion.

The best case scenario for many is months of temporary living. For others, lives will never return to what they were.

While the fate of sports grounds and golf clubs might seem inconsequential in the face of such hardship, we at Turf Matters have a particular empathy with everyone who has seen years of agronomic husbandry literally washed away in the space of a few weeks.

When I entered this industry in the mid-90s there were certain event which bookmarked the year. For example there was BTME, always in January, then The Open Golf Championship in July, next came SALTEX in September. Before you knew it you were back in January again with BTME looming. Today’s it’s virtually the same. BTME marks the beginning of the year –there was that one Covid-influenced March exhibition which was great for al fresco dining and drinking in the evenings, but didn’t seem quite right – The Open always July, but now GroundsFest has joined the calendardefining events with its September slot, with SALTEX now in November. It says so much about GroundsFest that, with only two editions under its belt, it has established itself to such an extent that it is talked about on the same level as the BIGGA and GMA owned exhibitions, which have decades of history behind them.

It must be hoped that banks – the financial institutions, not the things which edge overflown rivers – take an understanding approach to sporting facilities which have been unable to service loans as a result of them being unplayable and so unable to bring in revenue.

As we have seen with the recent Winter Olympics, sport has such a galvanising effect on society and can be the catalyst for so much good, that it is imperative sporting facilities are not forgotten when the promised assistance is being allocated.

The third GroundsFest is much anticipated. It is a much larger event than its predecessors. It may be the only national show with outdoor, as well as indoor, exhibiting but the organisers haven’t allowed the grass to grow under their feet.

On the issue of improving sporting facilities, we have been invited by Briggs & Stratton to become involved in its Pitch to Win competition, which provides a £3,000 makeover for what is judged to be the Under 18s football pitch in most need – find out more on pages 16-17. I am on the judging panel and visits will be made to a shortlist of deserving pitches soon. We will be looking not so much at the DESSO but the desperate!

The balance between business and pleasure has been perfectly struck. Serious talk and lawnmower racing during the day and bumper cars and Oasis tribute band in the evening.

Hopefully I’ll see you there.

On a final note, I am thrilled by the reception that the first issue of Turf Matters received. Many people have taken time to say how much they liked the look of the magazine and how they enjoyed the articles. We’re all pleased you found it to your liking and we will work hard to maintain the high standards. Thank you all very much.

Scott MacCallum Editor

Scott MacCallum, Editor

Distributed every two months to sports turf professionals, local authorities and buyers of turfcare machinery and products.

Editor: Scott MacCallum scott@turfmatters.co.uk

Editor: Scott MacCallum scott@turfmatters.co.uk

Design/Production Editor: Tim Moat tim@timmoat.co.uk

Design and Production Editor: Tim Moat tim@turfmatters.co.uk

Sales Executive: Marie Anderson marie@turfmatters.co.uk

Sales Manager: Pauline Thompson

Contributor: Susan Lindsay

To advertise in Turf Matters, call Pauline on 07720 055676 or email pauline@turfmatters.co.uk

To advertise in Turf Matters, email marie@turfmatters.co.uk

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Turf Matters is published by Straight Down the Middle Communications Ltd.

All material © Turf Matters magazine 2025 Winner of awards including Best Writing and Best Design in the Turf & Ornamental Communicators Association (TOCA) Awards 2019-2025

Turf Matters is published by Straight Down the Middle Communications Ltd. All material © Turf Matters magazine 2014. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form whatsoever, either for sale or not, without the written permission of the publisher. Information contained in Turf Matters is published in good faith and every effort has been made to ensure its accuracy. Turf Matters can accept no responsibility for any error or misrepresentation. All liability for loss, disappointment, negligence or other damage caused by reliance on information contained in Turf Matters or in the event of any bankruptcy or liquidation or cessation of trade of any company, individual or firm mentioned is hereby excluded.

Printed by Warners Midlands PLC.

No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form whatsoever, either for sale or not, without the written permission of the publisher. Information contained in Turf Matters is published in good faith and every effort has been made to ensure its accuracy. Turf Matters can accept no responsibility for any error or misrepresentation. All liability for loss, disappointment, negligence or other damage caused by reliance on information contained in Turf Matters or in the event of any bankruptcy or liquidation or cessation of trade of any company, individual or firm mentioned is hereby excluded. Printed by Warners Midlands PLC.

£4.5m investment shapes UK’s industry-leading seed facility at DLF

Staff and members of the amenity trade press took an exclusive look at the next phase of the £4.5m facilities upgrade at DLF’s UK headquarters at Inkberrow, Staffordshire.

Officially opened by John Larsen, VP Sales and Marketing Greater Europe and DLF UK Managing Director Tim Kerridge, the event marked the completion of several major developments including the fully automated Titan mixing plant, robotic packing lines, expanded UK native wildflower production and brand new trials and showcase area deemed ‘A Living Catalogue’.

The major project at DLF’s amenity operations centre has been underway for close to two years and, now complete, provides a unique and industry-leading centre for seed trials, product development, training and education of staff, distributors and customers.

With its 48-bin twin mixer and fully automated packing line, Titan is now the UK’s biggest seed mixing plant. Its introduction has brought significant increases in capacity, while reducing manual handling and lead times.

Titan is at the heart of DLF’s operation, supplying more than 14,000 tonnes to the UK market – that’s almost 30,000 individual shipments.

Impressive scale is also now demonstrated by DLF’s UK wildflower production, with 80 acres over three sites producing 50 different native flowering species. Expertly managed by Klaas Broersma and a dedicated wildflower production team, the

meadows are harvested and cleaned in-house to ensure the highest quality, before being incorporated into DLF’s native Pro Flora range and Your Countryside farm stewardship mixes.

The bright blooms of native and non-native mixtures from the Pro Flora and ColourBoost collections were looking glorious in the Worcestershire sunshine on their own demonstration plots as part of the wider DLF Showcase. The Showcase headlines 12 acres of space dedicated to amenity seed trials. It will also be the base for a sizeable programme of UK testing which feeds into the global picture of climate and disease tolerance trials.

The centrepiece of the Showcase is the new ‘Living Catalogue’ – a sports and landscape zone sown with mixtures from across the DLF portfolio. Featuring a hybrid winter sports pitch, cricket wicket, tennis court, horse racecourse and golf tee, fairway and green, all maintained by Head Grounds Manager Matt Lewis, the space will become the hub for training and education as well as providing a relaxing space for staff to unwind and enjoy.

“We’re incredibly pleased to be able to finally share this fantastic asset with our team, the press and the industry,” said Amenity Sales & Marketing Manager Derek Marriott-Smith.

Agrovista Amenity announces DJ Turfcare agreement for Viano product range

Agrovista Amenity has reached an agreement with DJ Turfcare that makes it the exclusive distributor for the Viano range of organic fertilisers and lawn care products throughout the UK (excluding Northern Ireland).

The agreement signals an exciting development for Agrovista Amenity as it strengthens its offering to both the professional and retail markets. Best known for the hugely popular MO Bacter organic-based fertiliser, the Viano brand is RHS-endorsed and well-established in the UK, with a loyal customer base.

“This agreement further demonstrates our commitment to the development and expansion of Agrovista Amenity,” said Dan Hughes, Head of Commercial at Agrovista Amenity. “Viano is a long-standing, respected brand with an extensive customer base and we’re proud to be taking on the responsibility of representing it across the UK.”

As part of the agreement, Agrovista will work to supply the existing UK distribution network and ensure continuity. A dedicated internal team will support the transition and ongoing development of this part of the business.

David Jenkins will also be working closely with Agrovista Amenity as a consultant to ensure a smooth handover and continued high levels of

service and support to customers.

David thanks suppliers and customers who have shown loyalty to Viano products over the past 25 years. He says he is delighted that Agrovista has agreed to continue marketing and supplying the range in the UK. Confident that demand will keep growing, David believes the public’s awareness of the benefits of organic and organic-based fertilisers will drive future success.

“We’re delighted that David will be working with an experienced and skilled member of our team, Jack Fishman, to support a seamless transition and help manage the existing Viano customer base,” said Dan. “The further expansion of our organic and organo-mineral portfolio of products is testament to our focus on finding market leading sustainable solutions and technologies for amenity situations.”

n www.agrovista.co.uk/amenity

BIGGA and GroundsFest announce strategic industry partnership

BIGGA, organisers of BTME, and GroundsFest have announced a new collaboration aimed at strengthening both events while bringing together professionals from across the grounds care, landscaping, and golf sectors.

The partnership will see BIGGA and GroundsFest working closely on joint initiatives throughout the year, including attending and supporting each other’s events, hosting tailored educational content, and working together on joint marketing campaigns.

At the heart of the collaboration is a shared desire to encourage crossover between both event communitieshelping professionals discover the value that each show offers. It’s a fantastic opportunity for community-building and cross-sector engagement. From greenkeepers and grounds managers to landscapers and contractors, the partnership aims to unite the wider industry.

The complementary nature of the two events makes them natural partners: BTME is a long-established, muchloved winter event held in January in the scenic surroundings of Harrogate, while GroundsFest offers a vibrant, hands-on summer experience where visitors can see live equipment demonstrations in

action. “We at BIGGA are hugely proud of our flagship event, BTME, and the positive impact it has, particularly on the golf greenkeeping industry on an annual basis and at a perfect time of the year to give turf managers a muchneeded boost, be that to their morale, their industry knowledge or their skill set,” said BIGGA CEO Jim Croxton.

“However it is our ambition to engage with our members and the wider

Event Director, said that the two shows complement one another brilliantlyboth in format and timing.

“BTME is a long-standing and special event, while GroundsFest delivers a dynamic, summer-based event where people can get hands-on with the latest kit. We’re proud to be working with BIGGA, a fantastic association, and we believe this collaboration will bring real value to the industry. We very much see this as a long- term partnership –action-driven and focused on delivering real benefits to the sectors we serve,” said Chris.

GroundsFest preview: From page 50

industry far more than just once a year. GroundsFest provides us with a brilliant opportunity to do so at a different time of year and in a very different environment. We are looking forward to engaging with many greenkeepers at Stoneleigh Park this September and to working closely with GroundsFest on a number of initiatives to move our industry forward,” said Jim.

Speaking on the collaboration, Christopher Bassett, GroundsFest’s

Outside of the two events, BIGGA and GroundsFest are also exploring further educational opportunities. BIGGA is widely recognised for its exceptional training and professional development programmes, and with the recent launch of the GroundsFest Academy, there is clear potential to codevelop training content that supports professionals across the entire industry – from golf greenkeeping to wider grounds and landscape management.

As both events continue to grow, this partnership sets the tone for a more collaborative future for everyone working in grounds care, landscaping, and golf.

BIGGA CEO

Jim Croxton, centre, with GroundsFest’s

Chris Bassett, left and Chris Bennett

Howardson Group unveils state-of-the-art facility

Howardson Group opened its new purpose-built facility, marking a significant milestone in the company’s continued growth and investment.

The new building, located on the original Howardson site in Ashbourne, Derbyshire, and home to market leading brands Dennis Mowers, Hunter Grinders, and SISIS Machinery, will serve as a central hub for office space, warehousing, and cutting-edge training facilities, further solidifying Howardson’s commitment to training, education and customer support within the sector.

“...A TANGIBLE DEMONSTRATION OF OUR UNWAVERING COMMITMENT TO CONTINUED INVESTMENT IN INFRASTRUCTURE, EQUIPMENT, AND NEW

PRODUCTS.”

The grand opening commenced with an exclusive press day, offering attendees a unique and engaging experience. Members of the trade media were invited to participate in a variety of activities, including archery, rifle shooting and clay shooting, fostering a memorable and interactive environment.

Note: Your Editor proved himself to be the worst rifle shot in the industry, and only slightly better on the clay pigeon range.

The following day, the official ribbon-cutting ceremony took place, with Managing Director Megan Oliver formally inaugurating the impressive new building, as our photo shows. Following the ceremony, guests were treated to a tour of the modern facility, showcasing its advanced design and capabilities.

A key highlight of the event was a comprehensive round table discussion featuring the Howardson Group’s senior management team.

Megan, alongside representatives from sales and marketing, engineering, and HR, engaged in an insightful dialogue with the press.

Discussions covered a wide range of pertinent subjects, including future product developments, the company’s enhanced training provisions, broader industry trends, and the market perception and future developments of the esteemed Howardson brands.

“This new building represents a pivotal moment for the Howardson Group,” said Megan.

“It is a tangible demonstration of our unwavering commitment to continued investment in infrastructure, equipment, and new products. This state-of-the-art facility will not only enhance our operational efficiency but also provide an exceptional environment for our team and customers.

“We are confident that this investment will future-proof our business for years to come, enabling us to continue leading the way in the industry.”

The new Howardson Group building underscores the company’s dedication to providing top-tier machinery and support to the sector globally, reinforcing its position as an industry leader.

GreenTek appointed exclusive UK distributor for topdressing brush

GreenTek Solutions has been appointment as Exclusive UK Distributor for the Sweep-N-Fill Mk3 topdressing brush.

The product will be available for demonstration and purchase through GreenTek’s national network of key dealers.

Designed with input from leading turf professionals and refined over years of development, the Sweep-NFill Mk3 has become the gold standard in efficient, high-performance topdressing. Its hallmark feature – two soft, flexible contra-rotating brushes driven directly by ground wheels – delivers consistent results at any operating speed.

This unique design enables greenkeepers to fill core holes in fewer passes, using significantly less sand, while producing a smooth, even surface that’s ready for play.

“This is a product that directly solves the practical needs of turf professionals,” said Jeff Anguige, Business Development Director at GreenTek.

“With budgets tight and expectations high, the Sweep-NFill Mk3 provides a reliable and cost-effective solution for quickly reinstating greens after aeration and topdressing.”

The Sweep-N-Fill’s two contra-rotating brushes floating independently, allowing it to follow undulations across greens, tees, and approaches.

The electric lift ram and adjustable tow hitch allow compatibility with a wide range of lightweight power units, from utility vehicles to greensmowers and bunker rakes – offering unmatched versatility and

manoeuvrability.

Beyond topdressing, the Sweep-NFill also grooms turf, removing grain, lifting lateral shoots, and encouraging healthier, more upright growth. These grooming benefits promote a faster, truer ball roll – the key characteristics of elite-level playing conditions.

“We’re excited that this top product is now available again to golf courses throughout the UK and Ireland. Whether it’s cleaning up aerified greens, brushing in heavy dressings, or improving surface consistency, SweepN-Fill Mk3 delivers on every level. It’s a fantastic addition to our portfolio,” added Jeff.

Other features include a vertical storage stand to save space in machinery sheds and the ability to fill divots on tees and range areas just as effectively as on greens. Built for professionals who demand the best, the Sweep-N-Fill Mk3 sets the benchmark in topdressing equipment.

n www.greentek.uk.com

Up for the Cup

Managing Director David Snowden, left and Sales Manager Angus McRae, of Agronomic Services Ltd, get a closer look at Hull KR’s recently won Challenge Cup – first contested in 1897 and regarded as the oldest and most prestigious trophy in world rugby league.

Hull KR’s triumph was a proud moment for both the club and the city. After establishing a successful relationship over the past seven years, David and Angus were honoured to see the cup.

Elevating performance: GrassMaster by Tarkett Sports Europe and White Horse Contractors at AFC Bournemouth

AFC Bournemouth continues to advance both on and off the field, investing in top-tier training infrastructure to reinforce their status in English football’s top division.

As part of this commitment, the club is expanding its use of hybrid turf technology, marking a significant milestone with the installation of another GrassMaster field at their new modern training ground by White Horse Contractors.

This project is a continuation of the partnership between AFC Bournemouth and Tarkett Sports Europe, the trusted name behind the GrassMaster hybrid system. Their collaboration, which began just a year ago, has already seen three GrassMaster pitches installed at the Canford Magna training base in the summer of 2024. The addition of a fourth full-size pitch this July brings the total to four, all constructed within a little over a year.

The partnership between White Horse Contractors and GrassMaster has been very successful in constructing state-of-the-art hybrid pitches across the football league pyramid.

New hybrid pitches have been

installed at Premier league training grounds and Championship stadia. The ability to deliver the projects during the incredibly short summer window is testament to the planning, collaboration and execution of the construction process.

White Horse Contractors, renowned for their expertise in sports surface construction, once again lead the build, working closely with the GrassMaster team to meet the demands of elite football training.

The GrassMaster installation at Bournemouth is built to exacting standards, featuring a full-depth gravel raft for superior drainage, root growth, and stability. The latest pitch will also include under-soil heating via the Subterra system, ensuring optimal playing conditions throughout the colder months.

The sand for Bournemouth’s pitches is sourced from New Milton Sand & Ballast, a trusted local supplier, ensuring both quality and support for the regional economy. This approach reflects both the GrassMaster and White Horse Contractors philosophy of blending local craftsmanship with global engineering excellence.

Central to the GrassMaster system is its high-performance polyethylene (PE) yarn, stitched into the natural grass to reinforce and stabilise the surface. These fibres are manufactured at Morton Extrusiontechnik in Germany (MET), a Tarkett facility powered entirely by renewable energy, underscoring the company’s commitment to sustainable innovation.

All stitching for Bournemouth’s GrassMaster fields is carried out using

fifth-generation electric machines, which operate without hydraulic components. This technology ensures quieter, cleaner, and more precise installations, while also reducing environmental impact.

The adoption of electric machinery is part of Tarkett Sports Europe’s broader strategy to prioritise sustainability and technological progress in hybrid turf development. Hybrid systems like GrassMaster have become the benchmark for elite football surfaces, combining the resilience of synthetic reinforcement with the playability of natural grass. Designed for durability, player safety, and year-round use, these pitches provide Bournemouth’s athletes with a consistent, high-quality environment for training and development.

The ongoing relationship between AFC Bournemouth, Tarkett Sports Europe and White Horse Contractors is founded on shared values of innovation, excellence, and longterm performance. As Bournemouth continues its journey in the Premier League, the additional GrassMaster field stands as a testament to what can be achieved when cutting-edge sports infrastructure meets forward-thinking design and execution.

What makes the perfect partner from conception to completion of a project? A partnership of companies who work closely alongside their clients from elite professional clubs, amateur clubs, local authorities, independent schools, and private clients to create a single bespoke solution. Trusted to deliver their vision and aspirations for elite level sporting performance.

Etesia Hydro 100 is perfect fit for Golders Green Crematorium

With12 acres of immaculately kept gardens, Grade I listed grounds, and renowned memorial spaces, Golders Green Crematorium in North London is one of the most historic and revered sites of its kind in the world.

Keeping the grounds to a consistently high standard falls to a small but dedicated team – and their latest secret is the Etesia Hydro 100 ride-on mower.

For Head Gardener Ian Harman, investing in the right machinery was a top priority from the start.

“We’re a small team of just four, and we’re constantly busy with everything from maintaining rose beds to managing formal lawns and the large scatter lawn,” said Ian.

“Machinery plays a key role in helping us work efficiently, especially with the tight spaces and tree cover we deal with here.”

Ian had previously heard positive things about Etesia mowers and decided to turn to the brand after becoming frustrated following issues using a different manufacturer.

“The last mower we had just kept clogging. It slowed us down massively. When I came into the role, I went on a demo day and was really impressed with the Hydro 100 – so we decided to go with Etesia.”

Since making the switch, the results speak for themselves.

“We’ve put about 60 hours on the Hydro 100 and had absolutely no clogging. It leaves a clean cut, picks up leaves and grass efficiently – even in wet conditions – and saves us lots of time. It also mulches the leaves as it goes, which helps with our composting.”

For a site like Golders Green, where space is at a premium and storage is limited, the compact design of the Hydro 100 has also been a huge bonus.

“We couldn’t store a large tractorstyle machine, and we don’t need one. This mower is the perfect size. You get the benefits of a large collection box with the manoeuvrability needed for tighter areas. It’s like having a garden vacuum – clean, simple, and effective.”

Ease of maintenance and usability were also deciding factors.

“It’s a very straightforward machine,” Ian said. “Fuel efficient, easy to service, and intuitive to operate. You’ve got a hydrostatic drive, simple controls, and changing the height of cut is quick –ideal if you hit a patch that’s slightly overgrown.”

Adam Nicholls, a gardener at the crematorium for over 11 years, agrees.

“We’ve got a lot of trees here, and the Etesia is the best machine we’ve found for picking up leaves. The open chute design just swallows them – wet or dry – and shoots them straight into the

back. No blockages, no messing about.”

Adam also praised its versatility across the crematorium’s varied terrain.

“It handles tight corners just as well as big open areas. Even in damp conditions, the finish is clean and professional. It’s the easiest mower I’ve ever used.”

The Hydro 100 is powered by an 18HP Kawasaki engine and features a 500-litre grass collector with hydraulic tipping, which can be emptied from the seat.

With a modern hydrostatic transmission and differential lock, it’s designed for durability, comfort, and productivity – especially in demanding, high-collection environments.

For Ian and Adam, the support from Etesia dealer RT Machinery was another big plus. “I’ve known Scott Reynolds from RT Machinery for years,” said Ian.

“They really helped us choose the right model for our needs – no upselling, just honest advice. Their service is second to none.”

Compact, reliable, and efficient, the Etesia Hydro 100 has proved the ideal solution for Golders Green Crematorium’s unique needs.

“If you’ve got restricted space, need a clean finish, and want a machine you can rely on – this is the mower for you.” n www.etesia.co.uk

Hunter Irrigation makes an instant impact at Leigh Sports Village

Keith Porter, Grounds Manager at Leigh Sports Village in Greater Manchester, is celebrating his 18th year at the helm of one of the UK’s fastest-developing sporting venues – and with the installation of a new Hunter irrigation system supplied and supported by KAR UK, he’s now seeing the benefits of precision technology across every blade of grass.

The new system has delivered a game-changing level of control and consistency for Keith and his dedicated six-person grounds team. Installed by Irrigation Control as part of a major hybrid pitch redevelopment in June last year, the Hunter system includes GT-885 and I-80-ON sprinklers designed to deliver performance, reliability, total top serviceability, and full even coverage of the pitch. It is combined with the ACC2 controller and Centralus software.

“We’d seen the technology at the BTME event in Harrogate and knew it was a step up,” said Keith.

“You can access the heads without digging up the pitch – which is massive on a hybrid surface – and the throw from the heads is brilliant. With the I-80s, even the central sprinklers reach right out to the touchline. We’ve now got 100% coverage, and that makes a huge difference.”

Previously, uneven watering created inconsistency in turf condition, with

areas occasionally drying out and underperforming. The new system has eradicated that issue.

“With the old irrigation system, it was hit and miss – now it’s perfectly even. No dry patches, no burning off. It’s not just about aesthetics, it’s about performance and safety too. Even in windy conditions, the whole playing surface is getting what it needs. It’s transformed our matchday prep.”

Leigh Sports Village – home to rugby league club Leigh Leopards and Manchester United’s Women’s and Development teams – has experienced a steady rise in profile and popularity, with regular games, training sessions, and even film shoots becoming part of the busy schedule.

The small team manage far more than just the stadium pitch – the entire site includes additional grass and synthetic pitches, a leisure centre, hotel, supermarket, and even a college campus. Despite the workload, Keith credits the investment in technology and ongoing support as vital to keeping up with demand.

“We’re left to manage things ourselves, and we’ve always had the backing when we’ve made a case for investment. The irrigation system was another example of the council trusting us to choose the right tools for the job.”

Control and ease of use have also proven key benefits. With Hunter’s

Centralus control system, the team can operate the irrigation from anywhere – even at home – via smartphone, handheld remote, or laptop.

“It’s really simple. Any of the lads can pick it up and use it. You can run individual heads or sections for spot treatments or liquid feeding. You’re not restricted to a one-size-fits-all cycle – it’s totally flexible. That saves water, time, and effort,” added Keith.

KAR UK played a key role throughout the project. Their technical support and advice proved instrumental in the system’s successful integration. “Lee Williams from KAR UK has been great. He was involved right from the start and has always been on the end of the phone. Any advice we needed, he was there. It’s been a smooth process.”

With the stadium pitch now fully covered and performing better than ever, Keith is already looking at future upgrades. “Our external pitches are older systems, but as heads start to go, we’ll be replacing them with Hunter –it’s the way forward.”

As Leigh Sports Village continues its impressive rise, Keith’s team – and their irrigation – are keeping pace.

“With the Hunter system in place, we’ve got confidence in the coverage. It’s made a big difference,” concluded Keith.

n www.karuk.com

The MF 1M series: The next generation of Massey Ferguson compact tractors

The new MF 1M series replaces MF 1500 models and comes with the latest MF family styling which first featured on larger MF 8S tractors.

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 mid-PTO, external PTO controls for added convenience, more lighting options and new cutter decks.

The new MF 1M series models combine performance with exceptional operator comfort, making them ideal for professional use including within the municipal, equestrian and grounds care industries.

The optional factory-fitted cab is a

comfortable and productive working environment.

A large glass area gives excellent, 360-degree visibility, and LED work lights front and rear are standard, extending the working day.

Designed to handle modern implements, the MF 1M.25 has 900kg rear linkage lift capacity; 300kg more than the previous MF 1525 model.

The MF 1M.20 retains the same 600kg lift capacity of the MF 1520, although an upgrade to 900kg is a new option.

For operator protection, a ROPS is standard on both new models. The MF 1M.25 comes with a new, rearmounted adjustable folding frame which maximises forward and side visibility, while the folded height

can be matched to the headroom available.

They can be supplied with a choice of agricultural, turf or industrial pattern tyres to suit the working environment.

A new range of mid-mounted grass cutter decks brings additional options and features. For the MF 1M.25, customers have the choice of a 54-inch or 60-inch cutting width, as well as side- or rear-discharge, and mulching options.

MM50 delivers the perfect pitch

For Adam Rowlands, owner of Turf Doctor Specialists Ltd, maintaining high-quality cricket surfaces is about using the right tools for the job – and when it comes to seed, MM50 from MM Seed is his go-to solution.

Based in West London, Turf Doctor Specialists Ltd has been operating for over a decade as a limited company, but Adam brings with him more than 30 years of hands-on experience in the industry.

As specialists in the maintenance and renovation of natural turf, the company works across a wide range of sports surfaces, from football and rugby pitches to bowls and tennis courts – but cricket remains one of their key focus areas.

Adam began using MM50 four years ago after switching from another seed that wasn’t quite delivering the results he needed. It was through working with Agrovista Amenity that MM50 was recommended, and since then, he’s never looked back.

“It was originally recommended to me by Agrovista Amenity, and I gave it a go. I found it to be a much more robust, hard-wearing option compared to the bent and fescues I’d used in

the past – and the results speak for themselves.”

MM50 is now used by Turf Doctor Specialists across six cricket squares and two bowling greens during the renovation window from early September to mid-October. Adam also applies it to six grass tennis courts, where durability and rapid recovery are equally important.

What sets MM50 apart, in Adam’s view, is its performance under

pressure. Cricket squares face intense wear and tear during the season, and MM50’s dense, fine-leaved ryegrass blend stands up to the challenge.

“The colour is good, germination is reliable, and the recovery is solid. It handles the demands of a busy cricket season really well. In my opinion, it’s the perfect seed for cricket.”

MM50 is specially designed for endof-season renovations and mid-season repairs on cricket squares. Its blend of Chloe, Alison, Singapore and Etienna perennial ryegrass cultivars offers exceptional shoot density, tolerance to close mowing, and fast recovery which is important when pitches are used through the season.

MM50 is also treated with Headstart Gold, a seaweed-based seed treatment which helps ensure rapid and even germination, helping grounds professionals like Adam get the best possible results even in challenging conditions.

“It just works. And I have to give credit to Chris Turpie from Agrovista Amenity – his customer service is unbelievable. I don’t think you can get better support than that.”

n www.mm-seeds.co.uk

How Brentwood Tree Surgery reached new heights with the Avant 630

When Adrian Strudwick, owner of Brentwood Tree Surgery, was weighing up whether to hire another employee or invest in a new machine, he made a game-changing decision, and hasn’t looked back since.

The purchase of an Avant 630 compact loader has not only accelerated operations across his tree surgery and firewood businesses, but it’s also unlocked new opportunities, turning the machine into what Adrian now calls “the centre of the firm”.

Adrian’s background is in engineering – he began in aircraft engineering before joining the forces in 1982. After leaving the military, he retrained in arboriculture, eventually gaining a degree in the subject and setting up Brentwood Tree Surgery. Over the years, his business has expanded to include firewood processing, site/estate management, and driveway installation – and the Avant 630 has been instrumental in driving that growth.

The Avant 630 isn’t just a forestry machine for Adria, it’s a versatile workhorse. Used both on-site and at the yard, the compact loader handles everything from loading trucks and towing trailers to moving hay bales for horses and feeding timber into kilns.

“We use it for shifting machinery, unloading our Unimog, clearing the yard, moving crates of firewood – you name it,” explained Adrian.

“It’s sped up production so much. What used to take multiple people and hours of manual labour, we can now do faster, more efficiently, and with less fatigue.”

Its versatility comes from its size, agility, and the vast range of attachments available – Adrian currently uses forks, a loading bucket, a power rake, and a stone burier, with plans to add a stump grinder and flail mower to his kit.

On-site at Barrack Wood, a historic woodland near Warley and Thorndon Country Park, Adrian uses the Avant 630 to manage timber extraction with minimal impact on the environment.

“It’s relatively light on the ground,

so you don’t get the damage you would with a 10-tonne forestry vehicle,” he explained.

“You can trailer it in and out easily, and you don’t need to leave it on site overnight. It’s so versatile.”

Barrack Wood, steeped in history from the Napoleonic era, is a delicate

now.” The high-quality firewood meets DEFRA and Woodsure standards – a key requirement in today’s market –and Adrian credits the Avant 630 for helping maintain this efficiency and quality.

environment. Adrian’s careful management and the Avant’s low ground pressure make it an ideal combination for sustainable woodland work.

Brentwood Tree Surgery also runs a kiln-dried firewood company – the only one in the area with a wood kiln capable of drying 15 tonnes of timber in just five days.

“All the waste wood is burnt in biomass boilers to fuel the kiln,” said Adrian.

“The Avant loads the firewood processor, moves the crates into the kiln, and unloads them when they’re ready. It’s essential to how we work

“It ticks so many boxes for a machine of its size. You can do so many different types of work with it – it really is a super tool,” he says. “And the quickrelease hydraulics make switching attachments a matter of seconds. No downtime.”

He’s been so impressed with the performance that after three years of ownership, he’s looking to add a second unit – or possibly upgrade and keep the original.

For Brentwood Tree Surgery, the Avant 630 has become far more than a machine – it’s a business enabler.

“It really is the centre of the firm now. The amount of jobs it can do is endless,” said Adrian. n www.avanttecno.com/uk

Sustainable maintenance and renovations

At the heart of every successful maintenance strategy lies one core goal: to improve turf health while minimising interference and inconsistency. With increasing emphasis on environmental stewardship, regular maintenance routines, and smart resource management, product selection plays a critical role in sustainable course management.

Matrix is a premium micro-granular soil improver enriched with Zeolite, Seaweed, and Calcium - all essential components for stimulating soil microflora and improving cation exchange capacity. These elements work together to create a healthier, more responsive soil environment.

Maintenance week presents an ideal opportunity to apply 3kg of Seaweed (per 25kg) directly into the soil profile. This boosts microbial activity

and delivers key nutrients to the rhizosphere, helping support recovery, growth, and overall turf resilience. Whether your goals include:

• Soil exchange

• Deep aeration

• Thatch removal

• Organic matter dilution

• Overseeding for recovery. Its compatibility with standard fertility programmes makes Matrix a flexible, low-disruption choice for sports turf professionals seeking both short-term results and long-term soil health.

Matrix’s micro-granular format ensures:

• Easy application at low rates (20 –30g/m²)

• Minimal surface disruption

• Rapid breakdown

• Smooth incorporation into sand or soil dressings.

Whether you’re targeting short-term renovation success or long-term soil health, Matrix delivers consistency, efficiency, and visible results – via a sustainable blend.

n sales@collier-turf-care.co.uk

Professional tree pruner from Stihl

Designed for tree care, the GTA 40 is the first professional pruner available in the STIHL AS System of battery-powered tools. Combining low weight and compact design with high cutting performance, the GTA 40 excels at pruning on the ground as well as maintenance and corrective pruning in trees by trained climbing arborists.

Thanks to the low weight, excellent balance and impressive cutting speed, the GTA 40 is a viable alternative to using top handled chainsaws for tree canopy maintenance. In areas of overgrown and dense foliage, the compact and slim design of the GTA 40 is a particular advantage.

Two AS System batteries provide enough charge for up to 190 cuts when cutting spruce with a diameter of 5x5 cm. Like all STIHL professional battery-powered tools, the batteries and the pruner are IPX4 certified, resulting in reliable use in rain and wet conditions.

Equipped with a 6” STIHL Light 01 guide bar with low-friction sprocket nose and a narrow STIHL 1/4” Picco

saw chain, the GTA 40 ensures fast cutting performance and a smooth cutting result.

Like many battery-powered tools, the GTA 40 is so quiet that no hearing protection is required, and to ensure the tool fits comfortably in your hand, the grip points are coated with a durable non-slip soft material.

A heavy-duty storage and transport case is included with all GTA 40 sets, with ample room for the AL

5-2 multi-charger and up to 6 AS 2 batteries.

The GTA 40 pruner can be integrated into the cloud-based STIHL Connected system solution via a Smart Connector attached to the motor housing. This digital fleet management system offers professional users a detailed overview of the operating time of the tool, as well as upcoming maintenance tasks and maintenance history records.

Turf Tank to unveil expanded

Turf Tank will be releasing its latest software update at Groundsfest 2025 on stand OSA481. Designed to empower UK grounds teams to achieve more with less, the enhanced Turf Tank robot now boasts new features that extend its versatility from sports pitches to parking lots, and everywhere in between.

Already trusted by over 5,000 organisations worldwide, Turf Tank’s autonomous robots have transformed the way schools, clubs, and professional venues mark their grounds. The latest update, built in direct response to user feedback, introduces smart tools to further boost precision, efficiency, and user control.

KEY FEATURES BEING SHOWCASED AT GROUNDSFEST 2025

• Logo Bundles for Pro Subscribers: Instantly access and paint a library of preloaded logos for sports teams, holidays, and special events – no stencils required. Grounds teams can now easily mark out detailed designs for school events, awareness campaigns, or club matches straight from their tablet.

• Car Park Marking: The Turf Tank robot can now tackle car parks as well as pitches. Mark entire car parks or individual bays on your own schedule, with the flexibility to complete the job in stages minimising disruption and avoiding

the need to close off areas.

• Enhanced Tight-Space Navigation: Set the minimum turning distance for the robot between painted lines, making it ideal for compact or multiuse locations near fences, buildings, or other obstacles.

• Quick Settings for Football Pitches: Updated templates let users adjust arc radius and line widths in moments, reducing setup time and ensuring consistent results. These enhancements reinforce Turf Tank’s commitment to accurate, consistent, and efficient line marking – helping grounds teams save time and focus on maintaining first-class playing surfaces.

Streamlining pitch marking with the TinyLineMarker Sport from OAS

When Carel Fourie was made redundant in 2020, it served as a catalyst for change. He had worked as a golf greenkeeper for many years and already had a strong interest in line marking from his days playing and volunteering at his local sports clubs.

Rather than wait for the job market to recover after the pandemic, Carel decided to use his redundancy money and personal savings to set up Elite Sports Turf Solutions in early 2021.

“It was a bit of a gamble, but I knew there was local demand for reliable, good-quality pitch line marking, and I believed I could make it work,” he recalled.

Based in Melton Mowbray, Carel now works as a contractor covering a 20-mile radius. In the early days, Carel used the iGO Premier, a pedestrian line marker from Origin Amenity Solutions, which served its purpose. However, it did have some limitations, particularly for clubs wanting regular overmarking.

“I always used to string the lines out manually, which took a lot of time. It just wasn’t efficient, and I knew I needed something faster and more consistent.”

That solution came in the form of a TinyLineMarker robot – the Sport model. Since making the switch, Carel has transformed his workflow and capacity.

“The speed still amazes me. I can

be off the van and marking a full-size pitch in 20 minutes, with the added bonus that I know the lines will be bang on every time. You just can’t get that level of precision with stringing lines by hand.”

The robot’s ease of use and portability have made day-to-day operations more manageable, too.

“It’s lightweight to move, easy to set up, and I don’t need to drag around reels of string anymore. I just load the plan, press go, and it gets on with the job while I get on with something else. It’s made the whole process so much more efficient,” he explained.

Today, Carel maintains over 100 pitches across his client base, and the robot is in on average five days a week.

Carel did his initial research into line marking robots through a mix of social media, learning from others. It was the robot demonstration from OAS that confirmed his decision. “I have used OAS while in greenkeeping and I’ve known Sales Manager Carl Chamberlain for more than 20 years. Carl and Glen Howard, the Line Marking Product Manager, spent time demonstrating and explaining the ins and outs of the robot.

“The backup from the support team is hands down the best I’ve ever experienced,” Carel says. “In the 18 months of owning my robot, I have only had one significant problem, and even that was fixed within 24 hours.” n tinymobilerobots.com

Robot capabilities

LIVE DEMONSTRATION AT GROUNDSFEST

Curious to see the robot in action? Visit the Turf Tank stand at Groundsfest 2025 for a hands-on demonstration. Select your preferred layout and watch as the Turf Tank robot brings it to life – no strings or stencils required. For those unable to attend, request a demo at your site by visiting https://turftank. com/en/ or contacting your local Turf

Tank representative:

• Southern UK: Alex Robinson –alex@turftank.co.uk – 07311 370 250

• Northern UK: Lewis Weldon –lewis@turftank.co.uk – 07533 969 557

• Scotland, Northern Ireland & Ireland: Alan Donaldson – alan@ turftank.co.uk – 07426 436 090.

Turf Tank is transforming pitch marking across the UK, from Premier League stadiums to local schools and grassroots clubs. By eliminating the stress and physical effort of traditional line marking, Turf Tank gives groundskeepers, volunteers, and facility managers more time to focus on quality and performance. With over 120 preloaded designs, custom layout options, and dedicated UK-based support, Turf Tank makes marking lines, logos, training layouts, and even car parks effortless.

Join Turf Tank at Groundsfest 2025 and discover why thousands of clubs trust Turf Tank to streamline their pitch maintenance and elevate their facilities.

n turftank.com/en/

WINCHESTER COLLEGE

Scott MacCallum chats with David Rustell, Head of Grounds and Gardens at Winchester College, about life and work at one of the country’s foremost educational establishments

A very special place

WINCHESTER COLLEGE

“THERE’S A BIT MORE OF A PUSH AT THE COLLEGE OVER THE LAST FOUR OR FIVE YEARS TO MAKE FULL USE OF OUR FACILITIES”

Most people have a soft spot for the place they were educated, even a few memories of particular teachers or exploits on the sports field.

They might even be able to boast about successful people who attended their school. I, for example, was at school and in the same year as The Proclaimers, while we had a few others who went on to represent Scotland at rugby. Another Old Girl is Sabre, from Gladiators.

Now my guys may have walked a

thousand miles to fall down at your door, but even their achievements pale in comparison alongside those of the Winchester College standouts.

A look at their alumnae brings up a very long list, including a legendary England cricket captain; a recent Prime Minister; a notable Deputy Prime Minister; a Chancellor of Exchequer; one of the most famous news readers in British television history. And a Goodie.

Oh, and there is also the fictitious Sir Humphrey Appleby, the highranking civil servant from Yes, Minister. It was claimed that he was

a former pupil, however, there is no record of him ever having attended.

The former pupils are known as Old Wykehamists in honour of the man who created the school in 1382, William of Wykeham, who was Bishop of Winchester and Lord Chancellor of England.

The college was even home to Jane Austen in the last few months of her life and the townhouse where she died carries a blue plaque marking her passing.

While academic excellence is key to Winchester’s reputation, the sporting side of college life is not to be ignored

and there is a wide range of activities available. David Rustell, Head of Grounds and Gardens, is the man tasked with ensuring standards are as high on the sports field as they are in the classroom.

David and his ten-strong team, comprising five groundsmen and five gardeners, maintain 250 acres, of which 100 acres are water meadow, 52 acres are playing fields and 11 acres are formal gardens, including St Catherine’s Hill, a 58 hectare flowerrich chalk grassland nature reserve which overlooks the college and Winchester itself.

“We also have a team of two river keepers, who look after the four miles of river/water meadow/nature reserve, while St Catherine’s Hill is managed by the Wildlife Trust, although the college own the Hill,” explained David.

When we spoke it was during the summer school holidays, previously a time when renovation work could be carried out in relative peace and quiet. But now, with the desire to make the most the college’s assets, those quieter periods no longer exist.

“There’s a bit more of a push at the college over the last four or five years to make full use of our facilities and

in the summer time for the last four years, we’ve hosted Hampshire Cricket and their Under 18s Academy. Last year we hosted two second-11 games for the county,” explained David.

It is a great opportunity for the team to prepare surfaces for the very top of the game.

The list of sports offered by the college is as long as it is varied.

Adventure Education (including Kayaking, Climbing and Mountain Biking), Aikido, Athletics, Badminton, Basketball, Clay Pigeon Shooting, Cricket, Croquet, Cross Country, Fencing, Fishing, Fives, Futsal, Golf, t

Restoration work following the unique Winchester College Football matches, which do tend to churn up the turf a little!

WINCHESTER COLLEGE

“WE HAVE ALREADY INTRODUCED MORE INTENSIVE MANAGEMENT PRACTICES TO MAINTAIN THE HEALTH OF THE PLAYING SURFACES INCLUDING MORE CULTURAL PRACTICES

LIKE AERATING, SCARIFYING

AND TOP DRESSING”

Hockey, Judo, Karate, Martial Arts, Rackets, Rowing, Sailing, Soccer, Squash, Strength and Conditioning, Swimming, Table Tennis, Target Rifle Shooting, Tennis, Water Polo, Winchester College Football, Yoga.

In addition rugby union, although traditionally not a Winchester College sport, was recently added to the roster by the Sporting Director in a bid to add to the mix of competitive winter sports on offer.

One sport included on the Winchester list of activities is Winchester College Football which is unique to college and is equivalent of the Eton Wall Game, the school which is possibly Winchester’s greatest rival both on and off the sporting field.

“The only way I can describe it is as a mixture between rugby and football. It’s played solely at Winchester, and played between the different houses,” said David.

There is also great excitement with the recent opening of a superb multi-

million pound sports complex which, in addition to adding to the college’s facilities, will be open to the public. It includes:

• A fully equipped gym

• Two four-court sports halls for basketball, badminton, volleyball, netball, indoor tennis, indoor cricket nets, futsal

• Six squash courts; Six fives courts; Dance studio, Dojo and, soon to be added, a six-lane 25-metre swimming pool.

As part of the development, two new boarding houses are currently being built to accommodate girls. Girls were brought into the fold in 2022, as day pupils, but the new houses will enable girls to become full boarders from next year.

“All grass surfaces are multi-use Including the first-11 cricket outfield which host football from September until Christmas and sometimes that transition can be very tight. For example two years ago Hampshire finished on the pitch on September 2 and students were back playing football on it on the 4th.

“It can mean delaying turf renovations which in turn, opens the possibility to more bad weather which can result in slower seed germination,” he explained, of an issue which impacts groundsmen at schools and colleges the length and breadth of the country.

David is currently working on a longer-term management plan to identify the infrastructure areas that he would like to improve over the next few years. This includes assessing irrigation options, something which the college currently lacks but which offer David and the team much more control over their turf programmes.

“We have already introduced more intensive management practices to maintain the health of the playing surfaces including more cultural practices like aerating, scarifying and top dressing, which weren’t in place until recently, but the lack of sufficient irrigation capabilities makes successful turf recovery very much weather dependent.”

That is compounded by the grounds being built on chalk downland, which means that the soil is very freedraining, superb on many counts, but it does lead to drainage lines drying out quickly, and thatch issues.

The team monitors soil health and has successfully managed historic thatch challenges but heavy pitch usage does necessitate reactive

David Rustell, Haad of Grounds and Gardens and, below, his team

maintenance. To ease pressure on the pitches, David, in conjunction with the college Sports Masters, has formulated a plan to reduce the amount of training on the main pitches and share the load out over the 13 pitches and practice areas within the grounds.

“This will allow us to give the pitches some rest and recovery time.”

Also included in his management plan is a longer-term approach to machinery maintenance and replacement.

“We have a good inventory of machinery and have the full support of the college however, we are now planning a long-term replacement strategy to ensure that we are always fully capable of delivering the requirements of the college in an everchanging environment and industry with ever-increasing expectations.

“We will also be looking at battery powered machines and robots for lawn maintenance. We are looking at robot mowers with RTK technology which would be ideal for cutting lawns around our ten boarding houses. It would be quiet and free up gardeners for more specialised tasks,” said David, adding that they already use the Turf Tank line marker for their pitches.

“Marking a football pitch from scratch used to take at least two people up to four hours. With the robot, it is done in 20 minutes, freeing up time to carry out essential cultural practices on sports surfaces,” he said, adding that they don’t have to deal with the complications of marking out athletics tracks as they utilise a custom-built

track elsewhere in the city.

David started out as a greenkeeper 20 years ago, having almost accidentally fallen into a position at Alresford Golf Club before realising pretty quickly that this was the path that he wanted to travel.

“I was working at Tesco after Sixth Form College and saw the greenkeeper trainee role advertised. I hadn’t considered that type of work before I applied for the job but quite liked the sound of it. I discovered that I had a real passion for it.”

Having risen to First Assistant and appreciating that it might take time to climb any further at the golf club, he joined Winchester College nine years ago as Deputy Head of Grounds.

“It was always on the back of my mind that I wanted to progress and manage somewhere myself and so when the job came up at Winchester, I jumped at the opportunity.”

“I didn’t know about cricket maintenance, but I was honest in the interview and they were happy to bring me on board.

“I was Deputy Head of Grounds for six years before being promoted three years ago.

Having grown up in Winchester rising to become the Head of Grounds at the establishment which in many ways defines the city is quite an achievement.

“I’m proud of my journey. When you come through the gates you can see St Catherine’s Hill in the distance and years ago I spent hours of my life up there playing with my cousin, Adam.

“To see it from a completely different perspective is just fantastic. The college itself is a lovely place to work and has a real sense of community which I am lucky enough to feel a part of.”

The United Kingdom is blessed with some of the finest educational establishments in the world, with a combination of history and tradition married to cutting edge approaches to education which can’t be matched anywhere else.

Winchester College epitomises those attributes and David and his team are key to ensuring that a vital component within the college infrastructure meets the exacting Winchester standards.

“Over the last few years we have developed and invested in a reliable team, who play such an integral role in delivering the requirements of the college. Their hard work, pride and passion for what they do is unquestionable and I am extremely grateful to have them.”

Oh, those famous Old Wykehamists mentioned at the beginning. They were Douglas Jardine, England Captain for the Bodyline Ashes Series in 1932-33; Rishi Sunak; Willie Whitelaw, Margaret Thatcher’s Deputy Prime Minister, and a longtime President of BIGGA; Geoffrey Howe, Mrs Thatcher’s Chancellor of the Exchequer, Reginald Bosanquet, the ITN newsreader, and Tim Brooke-Taylor, one of the three phenomenally successful Goodies from the 1970s and early 80s.

INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS

Working to enable sport for all

Following Phase 1 of works with Duncan Ross Ltd, Altrincham Grammar School For Boys addressed critical drainage issues and drastically reduced match cancellations. Phase 2 has built on these successes by further improving the school’s sports facilities.

The school has been dedicated to its ‘Sport for All’ campaign, which seeks to improve access to quality sports facilities and ensure students of all levels have the opportunity to engage in physical activity.

Duncan Ross’ project has been integral to bringing that vision to life.

Neil Brown, Head Groundsman for the Hamblin Trust, highlighted the significant impact of the improvements made.

“Since we’ve had the drains done, the pitches have been fantastic,” said Neil.

“The fields are now miles better for the kids to play on, with improved surfaces and more grass coverage.”

Phase 2 of the project concentrated on the training areas which had significant unevenness, with noticeable dips and slopes that made play difficult. As a result, a decision was made to level the entire area. Duncan Ross Ltd executed this transformation with precision.

“The team at Duncan Ross, in particular Joe Ross, went over and above, using various equipment for stone burning,

Blundell’s

School

flattening, and levelling,” explained Neil.

“The work was done so well that, when it was fully grassed in, we decided to convert it into a football pitch instead of just a training area because it was just too good only to be used for training.”

Alongside the levelling work, extensive drainage improvements were made, mirroring the successful approach taken in Phase 1. Drains were installed at five-metre intervals with sand slits at halfmeter intervals, significantly improving water management on the field.

Looking ahead to Phase 3, the school is set to benefit from additional enhancements, including the installation of an Olympic-style long jump and triple jump area. The ongoing collaboration continues to elevate the school’s sports facilities, fostering greater student participation in various sports.

“There are a lot more kids playing cricket now using the practice nets. With the extra football pitch, we have better facilities all around – we have quality playing surfaces all year.

marks five years with ISEKI machinery “that give us confidence”

At Blundell’s School in Devon, reliability isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity. With 50 acres of sports pitches and an additional 70 acres of landscaped parkland and campus grounds to maintain year-round, the grounds team needs equipment that performs without fail. That’s why, for the past five years, they’ve placed their trust in ISEKI UK and Ireland.

Their fleet now includes two TG6507 50hp tractors, a TXG sub-compact tractor, a TH5370 35hp tractor, and two SXG ride-on cut-and-collect mowers, each serving a distinct purpose across the 120-acre site, from fine turf

management to heavy-duty renovation work. “We’ve had our ISEKI fleet for five years now, and they’ve been reliable, trustworthy, and always ready when we need them,” said Head Groundsman Josh Allen. “That kind of performance, year after year, really matters in a school environment where there’s no margin for downtime.”

Based in Tiverton, Blundell’s is a day and boarding school with around 650 pupils and a site rich in sporting heritage and formal presentation. The demands placed on machinery are high, with frequent mowing, seasonal renovations, heavy towing, and tight working spaces.

The two TG6507 tractors, fitted with IQ gearboxes, form the backbone of the operation. One is fitted with a loader for garden work such as shifting mulch and aggregates, while the other supports the sports turf team with tasks like towing a batwing mower, verti-draining, and scarifying.

In five years, ISEKI’s reliability has been matched by its dealer support.

Local dealer, ABA Groundcare, also in Tiverton, is a trusted partner.

“ABA has been fantastic. Parts are easy to get, though we rarely need them, and the relationship, service, and support have all been spot on,” said Josh.

The fleet has continued to grow, with the recent addition of a TH5370 35hp tractor for winter pitch maintenance and sprayer work, alongside a compact TXG sub-compact for dragmatting on astroturf pitches and light towing.

“The SXGs are brilliant during wet conditions. There are times we still need to mow even when it’s damp, and the SXGs don’t leave a mess or clippings behind. That’s important because the site still needs to look sharp regardless of the weather.

“It’s not just that the machines perform well, it’s that they keep doing it. In our line of work, that’s the difference between being confident in your plan or constantly reacting to breakdowns. ISEKI gives us that confidence.”

Air2G2 minimises surface disturbance at Portugal resort

Quinta do Lago Golf Club, a premier golf resort in Portugal, is renowned for hosting major tournaments such as the Portuguese Open and the Justin Rose Telegraph Junior Golf Championship. With three 18-hole courses and a variety of junior and charity events, maintaining the quality of its turf is essential.

Course Superintendent Scott McLean, a key figure in turf management at Quinta do Lago, has introduced innovative equipment like the Air2G2 and other tools such as from Campey Turf Care Systems to ensure top-notch course conditions.

Maintaining the pristine condition of golf courses at Quinta do Lago comes with its own set of challenges. The club faced issues with compaction, surface disruption, and water retention, which affected the quality and playability of the turf. These problems needed to be addressed quickly and effectively as Quinto Do Lago is such a prominent venue for international competitions.

Scott had had previous experience with the Air2G2 and in 2023, he contacted Campey Sales Director Lee Morgado to work out a strategy to integrate the Air2G2 into the maintenance program. The primary motivation was to address the compaction issues and improve soil aeration without causing significant

surface disruption.

The Air2G2 was chosen for its ability to inject compressed air into the soil, creating fractures and channels that enhance water percolation and root growth. Portuguese machinery distributor Torre Marco has worked with Campey for 10 years and were able to supply the Air2G2 ensuring that any back up service required was in place.

“The introduction of the Air2G2 proved to be a game-changer for Quinta do Lago,” said Scott.

“Our priority was to minimise surface disruption, while getting deep into the soil to break up the compacted layers. In some areas we were experiencing puddling on the surface, and we would

target them specifically with the Air2G2. The aim was just to try penetrating the layers and help the increase the percolation throughout the soil by getting air in there and breaking it up.”

The results were immediately noticeable, with improved water drainage which has led to healthier turf and enhanced course performance.

Scott’s strategic use of the Air2G2 and other Campey equipment at Quinta do Lago Golf Resort highlights the importance of adopting innovative turf management solutions. The successful implementation of these tools has resulted in healthier, more resilient turf, contributing to the club’s reputation as a premier golf destination.

Terrain Aeration injects polymer

The summer months have not been kind for turf and trees. Increasingly, year on year, we are seeing the effects of climate change across our landscape as droughts persist.

Sports pitches, golf courses, trees in parks, amenity areas right through to lawns in private gardens have all suffered from the lack of rainfall. The ground becomes hard and compacted to a considerable depth, and when the rains do come, this often leads to standing surface water and waterlogging.

Suffolk-based

Terrain Aeration has specialised in one-metre deep soil aeration to relieve compaction, panning, and waterlogging nationally for over 30 years. While that takes care of the drainage and aeration when it’s very wet there remains the opposite problem of grass and tree roots not getting enough water in periods of drought.

It’s a problem addressed by the same machine, Terrain Aeration’s Terralift system, that aerates the soil at depth by releasing compressed air via its onemetre depth probe. As that fragments the soil to create fissures and cracks to allow drainage and aeration, the probe can also inject water-storing polymer. Once in place, the polymer will expand one-hundredfold with rainwater or irrigation water, which it stores for the turf or tree roots to take up as needed. It’s a one-way system, so the

polymer does not take water from the roots. In this way, we will be able to make better use of what water we have, and it’s a very long-term process as the polymer takes a long time to degrade. Spreading the polymer on the surface is not practical, as when it rains it turns into a gel, making the area dangerous to walk and play on. Injecting it into the ground using the Terralift machine offers the best and cost-effective method, says the company.

Terrain Aeration is the only operator of the Terralift in the UK, and the treatment has proven itself since 1985. There are different versions to treat large open spaces such as sports grounds, golf courses, and avenues of trees, and to negotiate narrow accesses onto bowling greens and gardens. Anywhere from airports to zoos. n www.terrainaeration.co.uk

Redexim verti-drain powers performance at Bedford School

With a demanding sports schedule and a heavy clay soil profile, aeration at Bedford School is not a luxury – it’s a necessity. That’s why Head Groundsman George Mills wasted no time in bringing in a Redexim VertiDrain 2519 when he joined the team just over a year ago.

The Verti-Drain 2519 has quickly become one of the most relied-upon machines in the school’s fleet. It’s now in near-constant use throughout the winter season – from October through to March – helping to relieve

compaction, encourage drainage, and support healthier root growth across the school’s extensive grounds.

“It’s an absolutely essential part of our maintenance programme,” said George. “The biggest difference is how much ground we can now cover in such a short space of time. With the 2519’s speed, in theory we could aerate the entire site in under a week. Of course, in practice we’ve got plenty of other work going on, but that capability makes a huge difference to us.”

Built for performance without compromising on manoeuvrability, the Verti-Drain 2519 is ideally suited to sensitive areas. Despite its compact design, it offers deep aeration down to 10 inches and can be run on lower horsepower tractors.

“We’re using it on a 66hp tractor. It’s 1.8m wide and it works so efficiently on that size. It doesn’t struggle – even when we’re going in nine inches deep with ¾-inch tines. It flies through it.”

What also sets the Verti-Drain 2519 apart is its working speed.

“With the larger tines, we run at around 3.2 km/h, and with the smaller ones around 2.8 km/h. That might not sound fast, but for us it’s huge. It means we can get onto pitches in the morning and have them fully aerated, marked and ready to play on in the afternoon –it’s even helped save fixtures.”

The build quality and user experience have also impressed.

“It’s really solid and smooth to use. There’s no bouncing around like you’d expect with some machines. You drop it into the ground, and you barely feel it – it’s like going through butter,” he explained.

“We’re pushing it hard, and it just gets the job done. You want to be confident that you’re making the right investment – and with this, we absolutely have. The whole grounds team are seeing and enjoying the benefits as well.”

n www.redexim.com/uk/

Cheshire County Sports Club has enhanced its turf maintenance capability with the acquisition of a SISIS Maxislit and SISIS Quadraplay.

Both units, recommended by the GMA as part of the Football Foundation’s small machinery grant programme, will deliver significant improvements in aeration, drainage and surface quality across the club’s natural grass pitches.

Sports Development Manager Ryan Williams oversees a multi-sport facility hosting football, American football, rugby union and league, cricket, tennis and netball. Daytime school use adds further traffic.

“The Maxislit is going to allow us to maintain the quality of the pitches, improve drainage and keep games on later into the season. Clubs without this

Cheshire County Sports Club boosts pitch performance

machinery often have to call games off in October or November; now we can keep going,” explained Ryan.

To combat compaction and restore turf health, the club needed equipment capable of achieving effective aeration in a limited time. The Quadraplay replaces an outdated unit that failed to penetrate beyond the surface, leaving compacted layers untouched.

The new unit delivers consistent 50-75 mm aeration, breaking up compaction and improving oxygen.

With sports booked back-to-back, the Quadraplay’s multi-attachment system allows slitting, raking, brushing and rolling in a single pass; enabling Ryan to maximise productivity within the narrow maintenance windows available.

SISIS Maxislit, key aeration features:

• Deep slitting to relieve water and

compaction, promoting stronger root growth

• Heavy-duty blades for consistent penetration in firm conditions

• Enhances oxygen, nutrient and water movement through the rootzone

SISIS Quadraplay, key aeration features:

• Slitting depth of 50-75mm (2-3 inches) for effective compaction relief and drainage improvement

• Multi-tool frame enables slitting with additional brushing, raking and rolling in one pass

• Maximises aeration and maintenance in limited time windows Together, the Maxislit provides deep compaction relief while the Quadraplay delivers frequent, versatile surface and intermediate aeration, ensuring the pitches remain in optimum condition throughout the season.

AERATION

Letchworth finds aeration rhythm with Wiedenmann Terra Spikes

Rob Groves, Course Manager at Letchworth Golf Club, Hertfordshire, says his team has found an easy rhythm when it comes to aeration.

“We don’t let it cause any fuss,” he

explained. Rob joined Letchworth GC in 2022, inheriting two Wiedenmann Terra Spikes: a GXi8 HD and an SL6.

The GXi8 HD, Wiedenmann’s topselling aerator, offers a 1.8 m working width and reaches depths of up to 25 cm. The SL6 is the lightest machine in the Wiedenmann fleet, weighing just 610 kg, but still delivers a tine depth of up to 21 cm.

“During the summer, we spike the greens once a month using the SL6 with solid tines. It helps us stay on top of cultural practices. We alternate the depth – 20 cm one time, then 10 cm the next,” explained Rob.

“That continues right through to late September, when we switch to hollow coring and do an annual run using the same machine.

“One of the best investments we made for the SL6 was adding turf retainers with tine holders. They’ve made a real difference – especially on one green that tends to retain more water. It’s allowed us to give that area the extra attention it needs.”

Multi tine holders attach to each of the SL 6’s six legs. Rob chose the narrow configuration, where each head carries four tines spaced 55 mm apart. This setup delivers a denser and more targeted aeration pattern.

“In summer, after aerating the greens, we follow up with a double roll using our Smithco Ultra XL. It’s my

favourite iron by far. I’ve tried most of the manufacturers, but the XL stands out. It’s extra wide, so it really speeds things up.”

While the SL6 is reserved exclusively for greens, the GXi8 HD is deployed more widely across the course–on tees, fairways, and occasionally the greens when deeper aeration is needed.

Rob and his team of six use the GXi8 HD on all fairways at least once a year, often revisiting more challenging areas as needed.

Since joining Letchworth, Rob has consciously stepped up the club’s aeration programme – and the results are clear.

“We’ve made good progress in developing healthier greens with deeper, stronger root systems by letting the air through. Using temporary greens is now a thing of the past.”

With aeration running smoothly and without disruption, Rob and his team have been able to focus on other key projects. “We’ve pushed ourselves quite hard,” he says. “Our bunker renovation project has just been completed, and last summer we installed a new irrigation system. We also tackled one of the greens with rope drainage.”

It’s been a busy period of improvement – but Rob is pleased with the direction things are going. “It’s satisfying to see the results of our work and know we’re moving forward.”

Tackling turf with precision

When it comes to ground care, precision matters. Whether it’s a high-end golf course, a sports stadium, or a public green space, protecting the turf while getting the job done is crucial.

Utility vehicles have become a musthave for ground care teams and are a vital tool in maintaining landscapes, courses and pitches. However, these machines can pose a threat as tight turns can often tear up turf or dig into sensitive patches of land.

Polaris has emerged as a leading contender in this space, with its classleading Turf Mode – a unique feature that disengages the rear differential to enable one-wheel drive.

This clever bit of engineering allows the vehicle to make tight turns without tearing up the ground. For ground care teams who take pride in leaving no trace behind, Turf Mode is a game-changer.

Working across a large part of Hertfordshire, MW Agri Ltd. covers a wide range of grass management and maintenance tasks.

MW Agri Owner and Managing Director, Malcolm Weaver, explained

that the Ranger’s Turf Mode is absolutely essential: “The one-wheel-drive option gives us a smaller turning circle and is ideal when working in delicate areas.”

Known for its rugged reliability, Polaris vehicles are fast becoming the machine of choice for turf professionals – and the newly launched 2026 RANGER line-up takes things even further.

The Nordic Pro range comes with an enclosed cab system as standard and is combined with an in-cab heating and defrost system. Polaris has also introduced high-output electronic

power steering for improved slow-speed manoeuvrability.

Another ground care team that is a fan of the Polaris vehicles is led by Chris Cheek, Owner and Managing Director of Skippers Ground Maintenance. Chris explained that the benefits were immediate – particularly with tasks like watering. “I started the watering operation around 16 years ago, and back then it was a two-person job. Now, with the Polaris, one person can handle it alone. It’s incredibly nimble.”

With the machines in daily use across multiple contracts, reliability and efficiency are key.

“We work them hard – day in, day out. These vehicles are heavily used, but they do the job – and they do it well.”

The Polaris range offers something for every scale of operation.

In turf care, it’s not just about strength – it’s about control, protection and reliability. With the 2026 updates, Polaris RANGER vehicles don’t just meet those needs – they exceed them. From Turf Mode to all-weather cabs, Polaris is helping ground care teams do more, without compromise.

Independent tester reports back on latest utility from Toro

Reesink understands the importance of due diligence in the purchasing process.

It’s why it offers easy-to-book onsite demonstrations, alongside asking independent machinery tester James de Havilland to put new launches and old favourites through their paces.

Most recently James has given the Toro Workman MDX Lithium a test run and here is what he found.

Battery electric power is nothing new for a utility vehicle. So, what makes the Toro Workman MDX Lithium stand out?

This is, after all, a simple twin-seat, twowheel drive light UTV with a rear cargo bay payload of 567kg.

Just like its 14hp petrol engine brother, but with a compact lithium-ion battery as opposed to heavy lead acid batteries providing the energy. The difference is the available power.

As soon as you drive the MDX Lithium you notice it is whisper quiet, but with

added get up and go. Then there is the one key feature that proves a big deal in actual use: the automatic parking brake that applies as soon as the MDX comes to a stop. This makes hopping on and off the vehicle a real plus.

Sometimes it’s the little things that leave a lasting impression.

The entry level MDX Workman is a light utility vehicle with a proven heritage in 14hp petrol powered form. Basic, simple, with room for two and a rear cargo bed with a capacity of just over half a tonne.

The lithium battery electric MDX takes this basic formula, adds low operating costs with an even smoother and effortless drive. As it quietly goes about its business, it is all too easy to just work this little tool without giving a thought to the lithium-ion battery technology that makes its effortless performance so accessible.

Unlike heavy lead acid batteries, the 8.64kWh lithium battery in the MDX needs no maintenance, just an energy top up via a threepin plug. The charger is built in. Toro suggests the battery will hold enough power to keep the Workman running ‘for a day’, so an overnight charge should be enough to keep the UTV on the go with

little need for any other attention.

There are two drive modes, with standard enabling the MDX Lithium to reach a heady 19mph/30.5km/hour. In Eco mode, the travel speed is down to just 16mph/25km/h. These modest speeds ideally suit this type of utility vehicle, as does the quiet running.

Next up, you can have a conversation with your passenger, take in your surroundings with unhurried fuss and easily work in noise sensitive areas.

Those who use electric power, be it for a vehicle or mower, will suggest charging little and often works best. As the MDX Lithium charges via a domestic 13amp socket, there will be easy access to charging points.

But it is the drive that will impress those used to a petrol powered MDX the most. Although the petrol version is far from noisy, it is still vocal enough for driver and passenger to raise their voices to converse. No such problems with the lithium battery powered model.

When it came to running around, being able to jump on and off the MDX with no need to apply a handbrake on an incline was standout handy.

This easy stop and go ability would make using a vehicle like this to empty litter bins or stop-start dropping and picking up loads repeatedly easy. The cargo bed is a decent size too, the rear tailgate lowers by lifting it free of its stops and folding it down.

Those after a handy little load lugger, that can carry two in comfort, need to give a Workman MDX Lithium a look. Its petrol-powered sibling will do the same job, but the battery powered model wins on ease of use, reduced operating costs, low noise and ease of operation.

Husqvarna robots became the first ever to cut the playing surfaces for a major golf championship in the UK for the first time in history earlier this summer

The AIG Women’s Open at Royal Porthcawl Golf Club, in Wales, saw the robotic mowers being exclusively used to cut fairways and the practice area.

The innovation operates via an Exact Positioning Operating System (EPOS) that enables robotic mowers to operate autonomously within virtual boundaries, via a satellite connection.

In a first for an R&A championship, a fleet of 15 robotic mowers including Husqvarna’s CEORA and Automower models will began work at 1.30am to cut Royal Porthcawl’s fairways, supporting the home greenkeeping team as they prepared for the largest women’s sporting event ever to be played in Wales.

The mowers finished at around 5am, before being returned to recharge –

Husqvarna robots meet the challenge

clearing the way for the greenkeeping team to commence their daily tasks.

The R&A Sustainable Agronomy team, golf’s governing body (outside of United States and Mexico), continues to explore new technologies that deliver high performance golf courses in a sustainable way, and the use of robots for the first time at a global championship, aims to showcase innovations in sustainable golf course maintenance on one of the biggest stages in world golf.

The robotic models are also electric powered, which produce zero direct emissions, compared to other dieselpowered machines that typically work lengthy hours to prepare a venue to a high enough standard for the biggest tournaments.

Course Manager Ian Kinley has championed the use of robotic technology at Royal Porthcawl since first working with Husqvarna in January.

“With the AIG Women’s Open being the largest-ever women’s sporting event in Wales, we knew there was tremendous pressure to produce playing surfaces that were worthy of such a high-profile event,” said Ian, of the of 15 Husqvarna CEORA 546 EPOS and two Automower 580L EPOS deployed.

“It’s been priceless to be able to lean on the support of the Husqvarna team. Our journey with Royal Porthcawl began with Course Manager Ian Kinley’s desire to work with more sustainable solutions and his consideration of how the role of a modern golf greenkeeper may be changing,” said Glen Instone, President of Husqvarna Forest & Garden Division.

“Ian’s faith in our technology, coupled with collaboration from The R&A’s championship agronomy team, is a source of immense pride for everyone at Husqvarna.”

York Racecourse looks to a technological future

The award-winning grounds team at York Racecourse have gained two new recruits, in the form of an Echo TM-1050 and Echo TM-2050 robotic mower from GroundTech.

In the few shorts weeks since their delivery, the pair have been well received by Head Groundsman Adrian Kay as well as visitors to site who have commented that the enclosures and other perimeter areas have never presented better

“BY INVESTING IN THIS PAIR OF ROBOTIC MOWERS, I CAN REDEPLOY MY SKILLED TEAM TO OTHER MAINTENANCE TASKS”

at this time of year. With a busy race season from May to October, and a calendar compromising of weddings and corporate functions, the maintenance is a year-round operation for Adrian and his team of seven. Like many in the sector, York Racecourse have found recruitment to be a challenge, particularly since the pandemic.

They’ve decided to turn to technology to provide a helping hand.

“We recognise that people don’t want to be working 60-70 hours per week, or at unsociable hours, much of which was attributable to the time it takes to mow our expanses of lawn. By investing in this pair of robotic mowers, I can redeploy my skilled team to other maintenance tasks, ensuring we can maintain presentation levels,” explained Adrian.

Following advice from Echo’s Sam

Daybell, they opted for the Echo TM-1050 and TM-2050.

“We worked really well together, assessing the size and specification of the prospective areas to find the right fit. The TM-1050 is primarily used on our premium grass car parking areas, and the TM-2050 on the enclosures, parade rings and a number of medium and high spec lawns.

“We’re already benefiting from all the well-documented advantages that robotics brings – mowing through the night and at weekends, in all manner of weather conditions. It’s also meant that we’ve been able to retain presentation over a difficult, wet winter with the light footprint of the robots. This has not gone unnoticed by visitors to the course,” he added.

“Considering the wider benefits, it means less need to turn to our petrol

or diesel mowers which is a big plus from an environmental sustainability standpoint. In 2023 we launched ‘Green Knavesmire 300’ demonstrating our commitment to reaching Net Zero by 2040, with these new editions from GroundTech playing their part in this wider goal.”

Together with the expert support from the team at GroundTech and Echo, Adrian is enjoying exploring the full functionality of the software, allowing him to monitor the robots 24/7.

“I’m not sure I should admit this in print, but I find I’m on the app at four in the morning, making sure everything is going according to plan!” he laughed.

“But it is very useful, being able to see things like the battery life etc. Every day we’re taking the opportunity to learn more about them and really bed them in before the season kicks off in May.”

Navimow wins

‘Q-mark’ status

The Segway Navimow X3 Series has become the first robotic lawn mower to be awarded the High Efficiency Mowing certification.

The “Q-mark” certification system responds to the growing demand for more advanced technological performance and innovation in the robotic lawn mower industry, featuring a rigorous testing process that evaluates key criteria, including mowing efficiency, energy management, navigation skills and user-friendliness.

During the eight hour test, the X3 Series demonstrated high efficiency, achieving the benchmark three hours ahead of schedule and completing the task with an impressive 98.5% coverage rate. Designed with a compact body width of 22.8 inches (approximately 58 cm), the X3 Series navigated through passages as narrow as 0.8 meters during maze testing – a common challenge for robotic lawnmowers.

The X3 Series, which launched earlier this year, is designed to maintain up to 10,000 m² lawns (the equivalent of oneand-a-half football pitches) with unparalleled efficiency. Throughout a 30-day field test, the X3 demonstrated high reliability, operating without experiencing a single system failure.

Commenting on the certification, Segway Navimow CEO George Ren said that Segway Navimow were continually striving for excellence in technological innovation.

“The fact that the X3 is the first robotic mower to receive such a prestigious certification is a testament to its unparalleled efficiency, precision and performance.

“This achievement underscores our commitment to pushing the boundaries of autonomous mowing technology and delivering solutions that set new industry standards,” said George.

Lawnmower racing and more at this year’s must-attend event

It is only the third ever edition but GroundsFest has already placed itself firmly at the heart of the grounds management industry. After a storming start in 2023 – storming being the appropriate word as that’s exactly what met the exhibitors and visitors at 9am on the opening day – the exhibition has grown in size at the same rate as it has grown in reputation.

The second edition built on the first with additional machinery demonstrations with Machinery Nation Live, offering head-tohead trials of top machinery and equipment brands. There was even a full fun fair-sized dodgems rink!

This third edition looks set to continue the upward trend with much more exhibition space, many more exhibitors and more to keep the burgeoning visitor numbers enthralled. I give you Lawnmower racing and the world’s leading Oasis tribute band Definitely Mightbe! Whatever did happen to the originals?

Stoneleigh on September 9-10 is definitely, not just might be, the perfect place to conduct business in a professional and convivial manner and letting your hair down at the unique festival experience which punctuates the two days. I’m looking forward to it and I’m sure you are too. See you there.

– Scott MacCallum, Editor

See you at

Stoneleigh!

Who is GroundsFest for?

GroundsFest is the largest, annual, free must-attend event for grounds staff, greenkeepers, landscapers, gardeners, local authorities, estate managers and contractors.

Machinery

Nation LIVE

It’s back – and bolder than ever.

Machinery Nation LIVE returns to GroundsFest with high-energy machinery battles, jaw-dropping demos, and a whole lot of horsepower.

Watch as leading brands go head-to-head in challenges that push man and machine to the limit.

With three live shows daily at 10:00, 12:00 and 14:00, you won’t want to miss the noise, the action and the chance to win some incredible prizes. Get involved. Get loud. Get ready.

NEW! Lawn Mower Racing – The GroundsFest Cup in partnership with Kramp UK

Things are about to get fast and very competitive. We’re proud to introduce one of our wildest new features: Lawn Mower Racing – The GroundsFest Cup. Taking place across both days of the show, this adrenaline-fuelled showdown – powered by the West Midlands Lawn Mower Racing Association – will see specially modified mowers rip around a custom-built track in pursuit of glory. Expect close corners, big personalities, and full-throttle fun as the UK’s best racers battle it out for the very first GroundsFest Cup.

Free on-site parking

Stoneleigh Park has thousands of free on-site parking spaces. Head to car park 5 where you can park for free.

Free shuttle buses

Planning on staying for the festival? If so, make the most of the FREE shuttle buses which will be available outside of the festival area and will be making numerous trips to Leamington Spa and Kenilworth!

NEW! Innovation Awards – in partnership with Hort Week Innovation deserves a spotlight – and the all-new Hort Week Innovation Awards are here to shine it. Celebrating groundbreaking products and technologies across the turf care, landscaping, and amenity sectors, these awards recognise the ideas shaping the future of the industry. With over 100 entries this year, the judges had their work cut out. Join us in the Hort Week Seminar Theatre (in the Landscape Zone) at 3pm on day one to see who takes home the top honours.

Free

Educational Seminars

Knowledge is power – and at GroundsFest 2025, it’s also free. Our CPD-accredited seminar programme brings together leading voices from across the industry to tackle the big topics, offer practical solutions, and inspire new ways of thinking. Whether you’re just starting out or have decades of experience, there’s something here for you. With multiple theatres and sessions across both days, there’s never been a better time to upskill.

GROUNDSFEST

Live Music Festival

When the show winds down, the good times begin. Join us from 4pm on day one for the GroundsFest

Live Music Festival – your chance to kick back with great music, street food, and a drink in hand. Taking to the stage are Definitely Mightbe – the world’s best Oasis tribute band – and Elevate, an incredible live act guaranteed to get the crowd going.

A live DJ keeps the energy high between sets and the bumper cars are back – and totally free. It’s the perfect way to end the day.

The Landscape Zone in partnership with BALI

Fresh ideas start here. The Landscape Zone is your go-to hub for innovation in outdoor design, green infrastructure, and sustainable landscaping. Created for landscape architects, designers, contractors, and professionals working with natural spaces, this dedicated zone is packed with exhibitors showcasing futureforward products and solutions. Expect inspiration. Expect insight. Expect to leave buzzing with ideas for your next project.

Outdoor Demos

Get ready to get hands-on. GroundsFest 2025 brings machinery to life with the UK’s largest outdoor demo experience. From mowing and mulching to digging, lifting, cutting, and climbing – this is your chance to see equipment in action, in the conditions it was built for. There’s no better way to understand how a machine really performs than by putting it through its paces yourself. Whether you’re trialling kit or exploring new technologies, these demos offer the insight you need to make confident, informed choices.

Indoor Halls

Step inside and you will find that the indoor halls are packed with top-tier exhibitors, showcasing the latest innovations in landscaping and groundscare. From next-gen tools to time-saving tech, it’s all under one roof – including exclusive product launches, expert-led advice, and countless opportunities to connect, learn, and do business. Whatever your role in the industry, you’ll find something worth talking about here.

Exhibitors to watch at GroundsFest

AGROVISTA AMENITY AND XDC

STAND RB380 AND RB381

GroundsFest 2025 visitors can expect a glimpse into the future of turf maintenance on stands RB380 and RB381, as Agrovista Amenity and XDC showcases two of the most advanced robotic solutions on the market – the RM21 Combo Mower and the Thor Robotic Mower.

The RM21 Combo Mower, distributed exclusively by Agrovista Amenity in partnership with XDC, is a true multi-tasking marvel. Combining precision line marking and mowing in one fully autonomous unit, the RM21 stands out for its ease of use, versatility, and forward-thinking features.

Also on display will be Thor – a powerhouse robotic mower engineered for sports turf, golf courses, and large-scale green spaces. With a 730mm cutting width and the ability to tackle up to 9 acres per day, Thor brings together AI vision, dual-RTK GNSS, and LiDAR to deliver elite-level performance and total reliability.

AMAZONE STAND RB62

Amazone’s Profihopper range, now in striking green-andorange livery, offers unmatched performance, productivity, and exceptional versatility. The Profihopper 1250, with a 1.25m cut and compact

730 l hopper, achieves up to 1,000 l of compacted grass capacity; the 1500 scales to 1.50 m and stores 1,600 l, thanks to the innovative Power Compactor auger conveyor.

Both models boast intelligent 4WDi all-wheel drive for pinpoint manoeuvrability and 0-turn steering. Their robust out-front mowing system ensures exceptional performance in both long and short grass, wet or dry, while the integrated collection system can easily double for leaf and litter removal. The high-lift discharge (2.1 m on the 1250, 2.5 m on the 1500) ensures swift, safe emptying – easily managed from the driver’s seat.

New for 2025: the BladeCut 1800 rotary mower deck now complements the PH 1500 via QuickLink. It delivers a clean, whisper-quiet 1.80 m cut with high-overlap blade geometry, anti-block grass flow with an adjustable cut height from 20 -110mm.

ARIENSCO STAND RB80

AriensCo is set to make a strong impression at this year’s Groundsfest, with an impressive line-up of Ariens Zero Turn mowers – including the exciting debut of the new Summit-Pro 300 and 500 series. These latest models are purpose-built for commercial operators seeking exceptional productivity, operator comfort, and durability in all conditions.

Ariens Zero Turns are renowned for their premium cut quality, achieved through precision-engineered decks and consistent blade speed, delivering a flawless finish every time.

The Summit-Pro 300 and

500 series raise the bar with impressive engine power, rapid ground speeds, and robust commercial-grade construction – giving operators the muscle to tackle large areas quickly and the resilience to perform season after season in the toughest conditions.

Alongside the Ariens range, AriensCo will also present the AS-Motor commercial line-up, including the highly anticipated Tahr 990RC. This remotecontrolled powerhouse is capable of mowing safely on slopes of up to 50 degrees, making it ideal for extreme terrain and hard-toaccess areas.

From steep-slope safety to high-speed precision cutting, AriensCo’s Groundsfest display will showcase solutions for every commercial mowing challenge – delivering power, comfort, and durability to keep professionals at the top of their game.

ASPEN FUEL

Aspen Fuel return to GroundsFest, putting the spotlight on petrol power that protects the professionals working closest to it. Known widely as the pioneers of alkylate petrol, Aspen has been transforming the working environment for landscape and groundcare operatives for over 40 years, changing the way we think about fuel to prioritise clean performance and personal wellbeing.

Available in 2 and 4-stroke formulations, Aspen is 99% cleaner than regular petrol when it comes to the level of hazardous hydrocarbons. Almost completely odourless in operation, users of petrol-

powered equipment are exposed to far fewer toxic emissions, making it a safer and more sustainable choice for maintenance teams working long hours or in enclosed environments.

Live demonstrations and expert advice will be available on the stand, giving attendees the chance to see and smell the Aspen difference for themselves. Details of trial opportunities can also be discussed, enabling workers and employers to discover the many benefits of switching to Aspen in their own working environments.

AVANT TECNO STAND OSA270

At GroundsFest 2025, Avant Tecno will be showcasing two major new product launches – the Avant e727 fully electric compact loader and the Leguan 265, the most advanced spider lift in the Leguan Lifts range.

But that’s not all – visitors will also have the chance to test their skills in the Avant National Pro Challenge, a high-energy operator competition with great prizes up for grabs.

The e727 compact loader is designed to meet the demands of modern construction, landscaping, agriculture, and equestrian applications. With a 27 kWh Avant OptiTemp battery, up to five and a half hours of operating time, and a 1400 kg lift capacity, this fully electric machine matches the power and speed of its diesel counterpart.

At the heart of the e727 is Avant’s new Autoshift system, which shifts between gears and optimises driveline efficiency for smoother operation and longer run times.

STAND H50

GROUNDSFEST

Exhibitors to watch at GroundsFest

Also making a big impression is the Leguan 265, the fastest 27-metre spider lift in the world. It reaches its 26.5-metre working height in just one minute 35 seconds, offering a 13.6-metre outreach and 250 kg lift capacity.

Do you have what it takes to be crowned Avant’s top operator? The Avant National Pro Challenge returns with a purpose-built course designed to put your loader skills to the test.

BAGMA STAND 39

It’s been an incredibly busy 12 months for the team BAGMA as they work to deliver brand new services and savings for the thousands of BAGMA members across the country.

In the last year BAGMA have launched a new Members Forum and online Jobs Hub, as well as providing continued support when it comes to advice and training.

On the subject of training, visitors to GroundsFest will be among the first to learn about the brand-new course titled ‘Safety Essentials for Technicians –Off-Highway Electric Vehicles & Electric Outdoor Power Equipment’. Developed especially for BAGMA, this one-day safety course is designed to highlight hazards, compliance and best practice for those working on or around electrically powered offroad machinery such as electric tractors, UTVs, mowers, and telehandlers.

BAGMA have also been working closely with their varied portfolio of approved Service Providers to develop exclusive offers and savings on a range of services including dealer management software, finance solutions, utility contracts and more.

You can also learn more about BAGMA’s ‘Paperless Solution’. Working in conjunction with the UK’s paperless experts, Culverdocs, BAGMA are transforming the task of business administration with a new

digital platform to streamline the recording of Handover & Installation paperwork.

CLEARWATER STAND OAS 251

At the heart of our exhibit is the ClearWater System, a selfsustainable, closed-loop wash water recycling unit designed to meet the rigorous demands of grounds maintenance operations. This system captures, filters, and recycles wash water from vehicle and equipment wash off, significantly reducing water usage and eliminating harmful runoff into the environment.

Eco-Friendly: Recycles more than 90% of wash water, reducing water consumption and environmental impact; Compliant: Meets all UK environmental regulations for washdown areas; Cost-Effective: Cuts water bills and reduces the need for costly drainage infrastructure; Underground: Out of sight and avoids UV rays, reducing the chances of harmful bacteria’s, snd powerful with hoses kicking out up to 8 bar of pressure .

Also featured at our stand are our Chemical Storage Kiosks, purpose-built units designed to safely store pesticides, herbicides, and other hazardous substances. These kiosks are constructed to meet COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health) regulations and are ideal for golf courses, sports facilities, and local authority depots.

Robust Construction: Weatherproof, and secure, finished in various style to suit the surroundings; Fully Bunded: Prevents leaks and protects the environment; Customisable Layouts: Tailored to your storage needs and site footprint and Internal lighting and ventilation Join us on the stand to see live demonstrations, speak with our technical experts, and discover how ClearWater can help your organisation meet its environmental goals while improving operational efficiency.

Dennis Mowers, part of the Howardson Group, invite visitors to their stand to see the latest development in stadium mowing.

Built on proven design principles and shaped by feedback from turf professionals, their new stadium finishing mower delivers the reliable performance and high-quality finish you’re used to, now available in a lighter, more agile package.

With a legacy spanning over a century, Dennis Mowers are used at some of the most iconic venues in world sport, as well as at grassroots level – across football, rugby, cricket, and golf.

For the golf sector, highlights will include the Razor Ultra– a high-performance pedestrian mower delivering a superb cut on fine turf surfaces; the Simplex– a compact and efficient cylinder mower ideal for tees and surrounds, and the Dennis gang mower

In the football and rugby category, visitors can get up close with the popular Premier cylinder mower as well as the versatile G860 mower with interchangeable cassettes. Also on show will be the ES-34R, a quiet and powerful electric rotary mower.

This year’s GroundsFest provides the perfect opportunity to see the Dennis E-Series, which feature low-noise, low-vibration and environmentally friendly battery technology.

For cricket grounds, Dennis will be displaying the batterypowered ES-510, known for its versatile cassette-based system, which allows grounds staff to switch between scarifying, brushing, verticutting, and mowing with ease. The ES-22U, which is ideal for delivering a flawless finish on wickets and the ES-760 for cricket squares and outfields.

DLF STAND 30

The DLF stand will showcase a wide range of sustainable solutions from the world’s largest grass seed breeder, featuring products from MM, Johnsons Sports, Masterline and Designer Seed brands. Alongside leading cultivars for sports and amenity turf, the stand will also display an array of colour with demonstration planters from the popular Pro Flora and Colour Boost wildflower ranges.

As we move into autumn renovations, a significant focus will be on the benefits of DLF’s 4turf tetraploid technology. This technology features larger seeds with improved genetic vigor, allowing for fast germination and establishment even as temperatures drop. 4turf exhibits enhanced tolerance to stresses such as cold, drought, and salt, along with superior resistance to diseases.

Another key feature will be wildflowers and their increasing significance in land and amenity turf management. These plants provide essential food and habitat for pollinators and wildlife. DLF’s Pro Flora native origin wildflower range consists of 17 different formulations that are continually are designed to enhance color, biodiversity, and interest across diverse environments.

DSV UK STAND 29

Visitors to the stand can expect an exciting showcase as the company prepares tolaunch two brand-new perennial ryegrass cultivars: Flanell and Eurogala. These two high-performance varieties will be exclusively available in EuroGrass mixtures from 2026, and attendees will

t

DENNIS STAND 50

GROUNDSFEST

Exhibitors to watch at GroundsFest

have the opportunity to view samples and learn about their standout characteristics during the show.

Flanell and Eurogala have already gained attention thanks to their impressive performance in the 2025 BSPB Turfgrass Seed Booklet, with Flanell ranking #2 in the prestigious S1 sports table – just behind Euromagic, another top DSV variety. Eurogala, meanwhile, sits just outside the top ten but stands out for its versatility across multiple turf categories, making it a promising all-rounder.

Strong genetic colour is one of the defining features of the new cultivars, with Flanell particularly noted for its dark summer greenness – a soughtafter trait for stadiums and televised sports.

The EuroGrass mixtures have been carefully developed for a wide range of applications, including: EG PRO Rye Fairway, PRO Summer Sport, PRO Pitch and PRO Multi Sport.

ETESIA UK STAND OSA150

Etesia UK is returning to GroundsFest 2025 with a stand full of innovation, highperformance equipment – and some of its biggest ever show offers. Visitors to the stand can take advantage of exclusive GroundsFest-only discounts across the Etesia range, simply by booking a demo at the event.

At the forefront is the Hydro 124 range – a line-up of powerful, all-weather ride-on mowers that are now available with savings of over £8,000.

Etesia’s all-electric utility vehicle, the ET Lander is fast becoming a favourite for professionals who need performance without compromise. Compact, roadlegal and incredibly versatile, the ET Lander can carry up to 940kg, tow 750kg, and power tools on the move via its built-in 230v output.

An evolution of the popular

model, the Hydro 100 III features a new high-performance Kawasaki engine, differential lock, larger fuel tank, and a highcapacity grass collector.

Compact yet powerful, the Hydro 80 is ideal for those looking to cover more ground in less time. With a 15HP Kawasaki engine, hydrostatic drive and the ability to cut long or short grass without clogging, it’s a true workhorse.

For walk-behind power, Etesia’s PRO 51X and PRO 53 mowers tick every box. Built for professional use on slopes and uneven terrain, they combine excellent cutting, collecting and mulching in one high-output machine– all powered by reliable Kawasaki engines.

FOLEY STAND 46

Foley Company’s UK and Ireland distributor, ProSport UK Ltd, will be on stand 46 demonstrating the unrivalled benefits of relief grinding and the new floor level Foley 642 Quick Spin Reel Grinder.

The prototype of Foley’s new floor level 642 Quick Spin Reel Grinder was revealed earlier this year. Now this new revolutionary grinder is ready for the market and will be on display. Designed to accommodate the widest of mower cylinders the 642 is a simple roll-on roll-off solution to grinding, with the machine sitting at floor level.

It offers a fast, easy-operated option for providing a quick touch-up spin between regular relief grinding schedules, and is a solution for sharpening the extra wide, heavy mowers used on sports fields/pitches. The Foley 642 Quick-Spin features simple to use controls, counter balanced spin drive, patented front and rear clamping system for pedestrian mowers, and power rear positioning levers for cylinders.

ProSport UK Ltd Managing Director Ian Robson will run demonstrations throughout both

days and be available to discuss any questions or requirements.

HUNTER GRINDERS STAND OSA170

Hunter Grinders, part of the Howardson Group, is returning to showcase its flagship machine – the enhanced Jupiter ATI ‘All in One’ Grinder.

Renowned for its precision and reliability, the Jupiter ATI is a fully automatic relief and spin grinder designed to restore cutting units to the highest manufacturer standards. It offers a comprehensive range of automated features to improve efficiency, consistency, and safety in every grind.

Built on a solid cast bed, the grinder uses heavy-duty linear rails to ensure smooth movement and consistent results – accurate to within 0.05 mm.

With a 360-degree electric hoist and the capacity to grind both the top and front faces of bottom blades, the Jupiter ATI is equipped for even the most demanding tasks.

Fully programmable for both spin and relief grinding, the machine features automatic wheel head docking, cycle countdown, and intuitive controls to simplify complex grinding jobs.

ICL

ICL is once again exhibiting at GroundsFest, bringing practical solutions and expert advice to turf managers, grounds staff, landscapers, and contractors from across the industry.

At the stand, you can explore our proven Sportsmaster and Landscaper Pro fertilisers, developed to deliver reliable, tailored nutrition across sports

turf and amenity settings. Weed control will also be a key focus, with guidance on total weed management using Roundup ProVantage and Roundup ProActive, alongside selective solutions like Praxys and Trophy XL – ideal for tackling broadleaved weeds.

A key feature this year will be our professional spreader range. Designed for precision, durability, and ease of use, these machines help turf professionals maximise application accuracy and product performance.

GroundsFest is also a great opportunity to speak directly with the ICL team. Our technical and commercial experts understand the day-to-day challenges of turf and landscape management and can provide support on product choice, application timing, and longterm turf care strategy.

KAR UK STAND 22

KAR UK is one of the UK’s leading distributors of professional irrigation and water management solutions – trusted by landscapers, contractors, sports turf professionals, and local authorities nationwide.

At this year’s GroundsFest, KAR UK will showcase an impressive line-up of intelligent solutions from Hunter, Amiad, Bermad, Kasco and Tricoflex – delivering everything from automated irrigation systems and weather-based controllers to advanced filtration, pumps, valves, durable pipework, hoses, and cutting-edge microirrigation technologies.

What sets KAR UK apart is its commitment to helping customers design and implement efficient, future-ready irrigation systems.

From smart controllers that adjust watering schedules based on weather data to energyefficient pumps and robust filtration systems, the products on display at GroundsFest represent the very best in

STAND OSA480

GROUNDSFEST

Exhibitors to watch at GroundsFest

water-saving technology. With sustainability and precision at the forefront, KAR UK is helping the industry adopt smarter, greener irrigation practices.

KRAMP STAND L80

Kramp, one of the UK’s leading suppliers of spare parts, will be attending GroundsFest for the first time this year. Visitors can talk with the Kramp team where a selection of products, expert advice, and exclusive offers await.

The Kramp stand’s standout feature will be its container display, offering a hands-on look at some of their solutions for construction and groundcare professionals. Key highlights include technical sprays, its range of LED lights and light bars, and the Kramp chainsaw chain range.

They will also have the Kramp Workshop Solutions display, a connected workshop storage system, which allows users to easily restock items by scanning a barcode using the Kramp app. It saves users time, and therefore money.

Visitors to the stand will have the opportunity to win £1,500 worth of the workshop racking. In addition, anyone who signs up for a Kramp account will be entered into a draw to win £1,000 of Kramp credit to spend across their extensive range of products.

KRESS STANDS RB290, OSA 130, 36

At this year’s show, Kress will present a structured three-zone exhibition format designed to deliver value for a broad range of visitors.

Demo Zone – This area will allow attendees to test Kress products in a practical setting. Features will include the “Blower

Game 3.0” and food incentives such as Neapolitan pizza, aimed at encouraging participation and creating a memorable experience.

Innovation Zone – Live demonstrations of autonomous RTK technology will highlight Kress’s latest developments. An elevated rooftop viewing platform will give visitors a clear view of equipment performance, and technical presentations will be available to address detailed questions.

Recharge Zone – Designed as a comfortable meeting space, this area will offer barista coffee, seating, and an anamorphic LED wall. The aim is to provide an environment for informal discussions and networking.

The layout reflects how many commercial landscapers approach procurement–by assessing immediate performance, future potential, and supplier relationships.

LANTRA STAND 47

Lantra is excited to return as an exhibitor this year, where we will showcase our latest training and qualifications designed to support professionals across the landscaping and grounds maintenance industry.

With a dynamic mix of both indoors and outdoor activities and demonstrations, the event provides great opportunities to network and bring together likeminded industry professionals, in addition to meeting those interested in pursuing a career in the industry.

On the stand, Lantra will be promoting its Certificates of Competence in the safe operation of Landscape Tools and Mowers, plus the recently updated Safe Use of Pesticides Suite.

We’re proud to announce that we’ll be launching our highly anticipated Integrated Weed Management Awareness course at the event, developed in partnership with Kersten UK. Furthermore, we’ll also be conducting an on-stand survey

to gather feedback on the proposed Level 3 Award in Pitch Inspection.

Just across the way, we’ll be sponsoring the seminar theatre, leading a discussion session.

MAJOR EQUIPMENT STAND OSA460

Major Equipment will be showcasing a selection of their professional tractor-mounted roller mowers and a new 1.53m flail collector.

Making its debut is the Major MJTDR-490 TriDeck Roller Mower. With a 4.9m cutting width, precision engineering and independently operated wings, it delivers superior cutting on undulating terrain, sports fields and parks.

Major will be launching their MJ29-153-HL Flail Collector at this year’s event. This 1.53m machine cuts and collects in one pass, with a 2m tipping height for easy emptying. It is ideal for collecting autumn leaves or in wildflower meadows and ensures a clean, tidy finish.

The MJ65-300 CS Pro will also be at the Major stand. This mower is purpose-built for contractors and local authorities requiring a wide cut with a flawless finish, with a low HP requirement. Its 3m working width and robust build make it ideal for wide-area maintenance.

Completing the line-up is the MJ71-400 Swift Roller Mower. This machine is galvanised to resist corrosion and equipped with a heavy-duty gearbox driveline for consistent mowing in challenging conditions.

The Major team will be on hand to discuss your needs and help identify the most suitable mowing solution for your specific application. Visit www. major-equipment.com for more information.

MANSFIELD SAND STAND OSA260

Make your way to the Mansfield Sand stand to explore the latest in professional sand-based solutions.

With a heritage spanning over 180 years, Mansfield Sand remains at the forefront of silica sand innovation. Their trusted range supports elite stadiums, top-level training grounds, championship golf courses, and high-performance equestrian venues across the UK.

At this year’s event, their team of specialists will be on hand to showcase how their products can strengthen, support, and transform natural sports surfaces. Key solutions on display will include:

Reinforced Rootzones; Fibre Reinforced Rootzone; Fibrelastic Rootzone; Sand Soil Rootzones and Mansil 40 Silica Sand; Sand Compost Rootzones; Top Dressing.

Mansil Silica Sand Sports Range is extracted from the Two Oaks Quarry in Mansfield, the Mansil range supports a wide variety of surfaces – from golf courses and bowling greens to winter sports pitches and amenity areas.

ORIGIN AMENITY SOLUTIONS

STANDS RB140 AND HALL 2 20

Origin Amenity Solutions is returning to GroundsFest to showcase the latest in turf solutions, digital technology and line marking innovation. Visitors can expect to see OAS’s comprehensive range of products and services, aimed at the fine turf, sports and grounds care sectors. With the largest dedicated team and unrivalled product portfolio.

GROUNDSFEST

Exhibitors to watch at GroundsFest

Outside OAS will display a wide selection of line marking machinery, from pedestrian spray markers to the latest GPS-guided robotic systems. The popular TinyLineMarker robots will be on show with a technical team to explain how the technology is transforming the speed and accuracy of pitch marking.

On display will be the marketleading IMPACT and Duraline paint ranges. Both are designed to deliver maximum results, and professionals trust these highperformance paints for their strong coverage, vibrancy, and ease of application.

Also featured will be the latest in grounds management software. OAS will demonstrate their WeatherStation, TurfKeeper, and MachineKeeper platforms, which help grounds teams make data-led decisions, manage resources efficiently, and improve surface performance all year round. Additionally, the OAS team will be profiling its partnership with Rain Bird irrigation.

Inside the spotlight turns to turf care inputs. The OAS technical team will showcase their extensive range of plant protection products, fertilisers, and professional grass seed, offering expert guidance on improving turf health, root development, and resilience under stress.

A competition will be running across both stands throughout the event. All visitors are invited to visit the OAS stand for a chance to win.

Pellenc is back for GroundsFest 2025 – and this year, they’re taking things up a gear with a brand-new dedicated demonstration area. Now in its third appearance at the show, Pellenc will once again showcase its market-leading batterypowered equipment, with live demos giving visitors the chance to experience performance and

handling first-hand.

Known for its innovation in lithium-ion battery technology, Pellenc continues to lead the way in zero-emission grounds maintenance solutions. The range includes powerful, professionalgrade tools that often outperform petrol alternatives – delivering reliability, comfort, and reduced environmental impact.

Visitors can expect to see a wide selection of equipment in action, including:

Chainsaws; Pole saws; Hedge cutters; Strimmers and brushcutters; Blowers AND Mowers

Making its GroundsFest debut, the new Pellenc Essential line will also be on display – offering a practical and cost-effective solution for professionals maintaining green and urban spaces. These on-board battery tools are designed to be lightweight, efficient, and accessible, without compromising on performance.

The new line-up includes: Helion Essential hedge trimmer; Excelion Essential brush cutters;. Airion Essential blower and ULiB 200E and 400E batteries.

PRICE TURFCARE STAND RB50

Price Turfcare, Ventrac distributor for the UK & Ireland will be demonstrating, live, the amazing 30 degree slope capabilities of the Ventrac 4520 compact tractor. Their specifically designed exhibition vehicle has multiple slopes so you can see for yourself what the Ventrac can do.

Since Ventrac’s introduction into the UK, hundreds of customers have adopted it to solve labour intensive vegetation management on steep slopes. Additionally some are rethinking turf area maintenance by replacing mower only machinery with this multi season workhorse.

Once adopted, the Ventrac 4520 can then complete other grounds maintenance tasks that

would usually necessitate the purchase of hire of specialist machines. Tasks such as gravel and hard surface pathway maintenance, stump grinding, trenching, seeding and materials handling to name but a few.

REDEXIM STAND OSA230

Following an overwhelmingly positive response at last year’s event, Redexim is heading back to GroundsFest 2025 – and this time, they’re bringing fresh innovations that promise to create excitement.

Visitors to the stand can expect to see a wide selection of industry-leading products, from proven performers to brand-new launches that will be revealed exclusively at the show.

While full details are still under wraps, Redexim has confirmed that there will be new additions to some of its popular existing product lines –offering exciting advancements in sweeping, scarifying and aeration. Whether you’re working on fine turf, sports surfaces or hard-wearing grounds, there’s something in the range that could transform your maintenance routine.

As always, Redexim’s team of product experts will be on hand to talk through the machinery, help match the right kit to your site, and offer practical advice based on years of experience in the field

Don’t miss your chance to be among the first to see what’s new – and what’s next – from one of the most trusted names in turf care.

SISIS, part of the Howardson Group, is gearing up for a major presence at GroundsFest 2025, where it will be exhibiting outdoors in the Centre Circle.

With a proud heritage in British manufacturing and a reputation for quality, performance and innovation, SISIS continues to be one of the most respected brands in the turf preparation and maintenance industry.

Renowned for producing robust, reliable machinery, SISIS offers solutions for grounds professionals working in football, rugby, golf, cricket, and municipal spaces.

On display will be key machines from across the SISIS portfolio. For golf and cricket maintenance, visitors can explore machines such as the Veemo HD, a powerful tractor-mounted scarifier ideal for intensive thatch removal, and the Rotorake TM1000, a highly effective scarifier.

Other popular tractor mounted tools like the Multitiner and Maxislit will also be showcased.

For sports turf professionals maintaining football and rugby pitches, SISIS will be bringing the Quadraplay 1.8m multiplepurpose maintenance system, Javelin Aer-aid for targeted aeration with air injection, and the Variseeder, designed for accurate seed distribution across large areas.

Those looking for versatile brushing and grooming solutions can check out the Flexibrush and Twinplay system.

Cricket and golf grounds staff will be interested in the Rotorake 600HD heavy-duty scarifier.

A wide range of hand tools and accessories will also be on display including the Trulute, Aerdrain fork, Drag mats and brushes, Combirake, and Bray hand tools – perfect for pitch preparation and fine finishing touches.

SISIS STAND OSA 170

GROUNDSFEST

Exhibitors to watch at GroundsFest

SMITHCO STAND RB215

Smithco will be presenting a full range of advanced golf course maintenance equipment designed for precision, performance, and environmental responsibility.

The Spray Star series includes four self-propelled, GPS-guided sprayers with multiple control features such as application rate adjustment, turn compensation pulse, and an industry-leading 25 cm nozzle spacing – offering up to 100% greater accuracy than other systems on the market.

Tournament greens rollers from Smithco help deliver fast, consistent, and true putting surfaces. With rolling widths

from 91 cm to 1.78 metres, these machines are built for maximum efficiency across different course conditions.

Also featured is the Sand Star 48V Electric bunker rake, part of Smithco’s commitment to sustainable technology. Quiet and emissions-free, it’s supported by a range of 50 different attachments.

STM are happy to be among the many machinery suppliers returning to the show this year. We are bringing SCAG and RoboFlail products for heavy duty grasscutting and debris

clearance, keen to show them off to Councils, Contractors and estates. These are machines designed to repay the investor with capability for being used all day, every day and there’s over 30 years of manufacturing experience at SCAG in the US and over 30 years involvement with them and STM Co Ltd in the UK.

There’s a new machine added to the range, too. The “Jackal” mini skid-steer unit.

All machines are available through the STM dealership network.

include the Robot Installation Challenge, with a daily prize of an autonomous STIGA mower, and our Wheel of Fortune giveaway.

SUSTANE STAND 44

World leaders in organic and natural-base plant nutrition products, Suståne, will be making their GroundsFest debut this year.

STIGA returns to GroundsFest 2025 with a strong focus on professional innovation, unveiling the new STIGA Pro Range – a lineup designed specifically for turf professionals and grounds care specialists. Developed in-house by STIGA engineers, this advanced range features a modular battery system that is removable, portable, and swappable, delivering unlimited working capacity with minimal downtime.

Built for reliability in demanding environments, the Pro Range represents a significant step forward in sustainable turf management, offering the performance of petrol with the benefits of lownoise, low-emission battery technology.

Also debuting is a new 2026 battery ride-on range for large gardens, bringing STIGA’s professional-grade engineering to the domestic sector. This system maintains the same modular battery platform, making it simple, smart, and scalable for users with extensive grounds to maintain.

Visitors can test drive the new STIGA Battery Park front mower and a selection of ride-on models within a dedicated, supervised area.

Additional on-stand activities

Whether you’re a landscaper, greenkeeper, agronomist or sports turf manager, a stop at stand 44 will be a must to discover more about products from their professional range including Suståne 4-6-4 Granular and Suståne 1-1-1 Soil ReGen.

Another product of note is Suståne 1-1-1 Soil ReGen. Soil ReGen is a structural conditioner that amends the soil to reduce compaction and increase water, air and nutrient filtration rates. Proven to improve permeability and establishment of seedlings in existing soils, ReGen® also comes into its own during construction and reclamation projects, to supply organic-rich nutrients to disturbed or depleted ground. It is also a useful tool in the armoury of landscapers and grounds professionals if periods of wet weather are on the cards.

To find out about how Suståne can support your grow-in’s, renovations or in-season maintenance and recovery, be sure to speak with the technical team, on hand in the indoor exhibition area across the two days.

STM STAND RB30

STIGA STAND OSA790

GROUNDSFEST

Exhibitors to watch at GroundsFest

TEAM SPRAYERS STAND RB350

Earlier this year, Team Sprayers unveiled major upgrades to their renowned Cub, Scout, Vixen SP Pro, and Club sprayers – all of which will be showcased at this year’s Groundsfest.

Developed in close collaboration with trusted users, these enhancements build on the proven performance of each model, making them even more intuitive, efficient, and operatorfriendly.

The updated Cub, Scout and Vixen models now feature a compact design for effortless transport and storage, an innovative plumbing system that eliminates chemical waste, a redesigned lid for easier filling, and a new foldable handle and boom for streamlined setup and use.

The Club tractor-mounted sprayer has been re-engineered with a compact tank that dramatically improves rear visibility from the cab. The revised tank chassis supports bolt-on accessories like a foam marker or hose reel, allowing users to tackle multiple tasks simultaneously.

TORO AND HAYTER

STANDS OSA640 AND OSA760

Toro and Hayter are returning to GroundsFest 2025 with a bold statement: We’re all in! Following a successful appearance last year, we’ve doubled our stand space to showcase the equipment that matters most to landscape contractors and grounds professionals.

This year’s display features a

focused range of practical, highperformance solutions–from commercial zero-turns and out-front rotaries to walk-behind mowers and battery-powered innovations.

Live demonstrations will give visitors the chance to see equipment in action, compare models side by side, and speak directly with our product experts.

Toro and Hayter’s presence at GroundsFest reflects our shared commitment to supporting the industry with reliable, sustainable equipment built to last. We’re proud to collaborate with GroundsFest to create an experience that’s hands-on, informative, and tailored to professionals who take turf care seriously

TRIMAX STAND RB9

Trimax is excited to return to GroundsFest this year with its range of commercial mowing solutions – trusted by operators worldwide.

We’ll have several mowers on display, including: Pegasus S5: The market-leading wide-area mower since 2001. The Series 5 adds maintenance-free features such as the Trimax Titan roller bearing system, QuikLift as standard, and a more robust transport system. Available in 4.9 m, 6.1 m, and 7.2 m widths. ProCut S5:

A versatile roller mower with over 30 years of trusted performance. Series 5 delivers a premium cut with zero daily maintenance. Spindles, roller bearings, and auto-belt tensioning are all maintenancefree. Available in four cutting widths from 1.7 m to 2.9 m.

Both the Pegasus S5 and ProCut S5 are also available as single roller variants – ideal for tackling long grass in tough commercial environments.

GROUNDSFEST

Exhibitors to watch at GroundsFest

Striker:

A low-maintenance, multispindled rotary mower for compact tractors—perfect for schools, estates, and grassroots sports clubs.

Ezeemow FX:

Compact, durable, and now even more affordable! The Ezeemow flail mower mulches branches up to 25 mm while delivering a clean finish.

With so much on show, be sure to visit us at Stand RB9.

Learn more at www.trimaxmowers.co.uk

TURF TANK

Turf Tank, a leading name in robotic line marking solutions,

is proud to announce the release of its latest software update at the show. Designed to empower UK grounds teams to achieve more with less, the enhanced Turf Tank robot now boasts new features that extend its versatility from sports pitches to parking lots, and everywhere in between.

Already trusted by over 5,000 organisations worldwide, Turf Tank’s autonomous robots have transformed the way schools, clubs, and professional venues mark their grounds

Logo Bundles for Pro Subscribers: Car Park Marking; Enhanced Tight-Space Navigation and Quick Settings for Football Pitches:

These enhancements reinforce Turf Tank’s commitment to accurate, consistent, and efficient line marking – helping grounds teams save time and focus on maintaining first-class playing surfaces.

Curious to see the robot in action? Visit the Turf Tank

stand at Groundsfest 2025 for a hands-on demonstration. Select your preferred layout and watch as the Turf Tank robot brings it to life – no strings or stencils required. For those unable to attend, request a demo at your site by visiting https://turftank. com/en/ or contacting your local Turf Tank representative:

WAYROBO’S

We are pleased to invite you to visit us during the show where we will unveil our latest innovation in golf course and sports turf maintenance – the fully autonomous reel mower. Engineered for precision, productivity, and seamless

integration, our autonomous reel mower features a powerful “Dual-Brain” AI System. This advanced system allows the mower to avoid obstacles, and ensures mowing smarter and safer.

One of the key highlights is its automated grass detection and emptying function. The mower can detect when the collection box is full and autonomously drive to the designated dumping station to unload, then return to work – all without human intervention.

At the show, we will be performing live demonstrations of the mower in action. This is a great opportunity to experience the performance, intelligence, and efficiency of our newest model up close.

Exhibitors to watch at GroundsFest

WIEDENMANN UK

STAND RB215

Wiedenmann UK makes its first appearance at GroundsFest, showcasing its acclaimed Terra Spike deep aerators. Renowned for their outstanding work rate, smooth operation, and precision finish, the Terra Spike range continues to set the standard in turf care innovation.

Two standout models will feature prominently: the XP, offering tine depths of up to 400 mm for extra penetration, and the GXi8 XD, engineered for maximum accessibility and versatility.

With tool-free adjustments for both working depth and heave, these machines are designed to

boost productivity and minimise downtime.

In addition to aerators, Wiedenmann will also present its range of high-performance turf care tools. The Super 500 operates as a sweeper, collector, flail mower, and more – offering unmatched versatility. The Terra Rake, available in up to five working widths, enables highspeed scarifying with ease. Meanwhile, the Whisper Twister and Mega Twister blowers combine powerful airflow and rotation with impressively low noise levels, making them ideal for noisesensitive environments.

List of Exhibitors

Adtrak L126

Aebi Schmidt UK Ltd OSA90

Agri Workwear L87A

Agrovista Amenity RB381

Air-Seal Products Ltd 6

AKFS Ltd 37

Alba Trees Ltd L135

Alganize L27

AL-KO OSA560

AM ROBOTS L139

AMAZONE Ltd RB62

AMS Robotics 17

AMS Truck Bodies 16

Applied Protection Guards Ltd L2

Approved Hydraulics Ltd RB63

Aquatic Solutions UK OSA490

Arbforest Ltd OSA200

Arbury Gates & Railings L90

AriensCo EMEAA (ASMotor & Ariens) RB80

Aspen Fuel H50

ATVTrac RB280

Auto-Roller RB270

Avant Tecno OSA270

Azpects L87

BAGMA 39

BALI L3

Barcham Trees RB185

BASE Kit G2

BASIS L18

Beechwood Trees L5

Ben Burgess Groundscare Equipment S7

Bespoke Masonry Ltd L88

BHGS Ltd 4

BigChange 3

BIGGA 21

Billericay Farm Services Ltd 53

BLOCK BLITZ L39

Bloomin Forests L13

Bobcat Mowers OSA730

Boot & Dart L92

Bosch Outdoor Garden OSA210

BOSS Off Road Vehicles Ltd OSA720

Boston Seeds Ltd L71

Boughton Loam L128

Briggs & Stratton / Vanguard OSA70

Brumblebee Seeds L19

Bury Hill Landscape Supplies L98

C.Scope International Ltd L36

CCS PLANT LTD G3

Certis Belchim Amenity 24

CFMOTO UK L95

Chandlers (MF) Ltd H40

Channelled Atlantic L100

Chappell Enterprises UK 52

Cherry Products Limited S2

Chew Valley Trees L142

ClearWater OSA251

Clover Grow L48

CMC Lift UK C1

CNF Mini Dumpers H35

Cobra Garden OSA580

CONTRACT PLANT RB261

Country Supplies UK L89

CQ L37

CRAMER OSA600

Crowders Nurseries/ Salix/British Flora L148

Cub Cadet OSA190

D&S Factors RB240

Danarm Machinery Limited OSA620

David Ogilvie Engineering Ltd L93

Davis Trackhire RB186

DAX Industries RB320

Dennis 50

DEWALT 33

DEWALT OSA190

DJB Machinery Ltd OSA930

DLF Seeds Ltd 30

DSV UK - EUROGRASS 29

Dual Pumps Limited 48

Earlsmere Ltd 27

Easy Petrol Post Driver OSA50

Eco Green Composting 45

EcoClipper RB309

EGO OSA630

Elveden Instant Hedge L125

Etesia UK OSA150

Eutrema L54

Everedge OSA250

Evopos UK Ltd 43

Ezyasset & Ezytreev L17

Fargro 41

Farol Ltd OSA520

Fendt L72

FENTEX LTD L97

Fentons of Bourne Ltd H75

FFAIR 1234

FGM Claymore RB360

Firestorm Heaters RB2

Fletcher Stewart L20

Foley Company 46

Forestry Journal L16

Först S1

FORZA 38

Fullbrook Nursery L140

Garden Machines Ltd OSA680

Gaviota UK L7

GBR Technology Ltd 1

GeoGrow Ltd 34

George Browns OSA100

Geoworks L130

Global Machinery Solutions Ltd H10

GRASS GAINS L10

Grasshopper Turf Equipment OSA110

Green Plant UK Ltd OSA461

GreenBest Ltd 28

Greener Grounds Garden and Sports Turf Maintenance L44

GroundsCare Products 26

Groundsman Industries Ltd 28A

Hahn Plastics Ltd L132

Handy RB430

Hansa Products UK Ltd OSA510

Harper Adams University L28

Harrowden L64

Hazlewood Trailers H30

Herbst Machinery Ltd H5

Highland Clothing 12

Hillier L141

Holcim L70

Honda UK OSA10

Hopespare Limited 31

HortWeek L8

Hozelock Exel: Berthoud & Cooper Pegler Sprayers L42

Huck Play RB30

Husqvarna OSA800

Hustler Turf Equipment OSA120

Hydro App Systems Ltd 23 ICL OSA480

Impulse Plants L137

J. A. Jones & Sons Ltd L129

James Coles and Sons Nurseries L150

Japanese Knotweed Ltd & Environment Controls 35

KAR UK Ltd 22

Kersten Site Maintenance Equipment H45

Kingdom Technologies OSA51

Kirogn OSA240

Kramp UK Ltd L80

Kress RB290

Kress OSA130

Kress 36

Landquip Ltd S6

Landscape & Urban Design L75

LANTRA 47

LAPU 49

LCVT Ltd RB285

Lister Wilder Hire OSA80

Lubbe & Sons (Bulbs) Ltd L144

Lumena Lights L154

Major Equipment Ltd OSA460

Makita UK Ltd RB120

Mammotion RB130

Mansfield Sand OSA260

Martin Lishman Ltd OSA194

METOS UK 25

Michelin Tyre Plc G1

Milwaukee RB180 MITOX OSA560

Monty Miracle L149

Monty Miracle RB8

Myerscough College L32

Niche L94

Nomix Enviro Ltd 54

ODS L35

Oleo-Mac / Bertolini (Emak UK Ltd) C5

Origin Amenity Solutions RB140

Overton (UK) Ltd OSA280

Pellenc UK OSA150b

Perennial L14

Pershore College L30

Phoenix Amenity Supplies Ltd 15

Pictoral Meadows L85

Pitchcare RB4

PMP Surfacing Ltd L86

Polybound Ltd L152

Portek Ltd 18

Postpullers (UK) Ltd 55

Price Turfcare - Ventrac RB50

Probst Ltd OSA192 Progreen L1

PSD Groundscare OSA660

PSD Groundscare OSA710

QualiTerra RB250

Rago Planters L56 RAT

BUYERS’ GUIDE

Dig Deep at Perennial’s fundraising lunch with Mark Gregory

Perennial will host its muchanticipated Dig Deep Fundraising Lunch at The Cumberland, London on 10 October.

This annual event celebrates those who tirelessly support and sustain Perennial’s vital work. With Mark Gregory, celebrated garden designer and Perennial Ambassador, and Manoj Malde, acclaimed garden designer and event host, this year’s lunch promises to be an afternoon of inspiration, gratitude and generosity.

Mark, a long-time supporter, brings a passionate voice to this cause. With a career spanning over 35 years in horticulture, Mark understands the challenges faced by those in the industry better than most.

“Perennial are working hard to increase awareness and engagement in the horticulture industry of all the amazing work they have done, and I am proud to be a part of it! Having spent my career in the horticulture industry I’ve come to understand the challenges which people face so I am honoured and proud to have the opportunity to become a Perennial Ambassador and use my industry expertise to support the vital work of the charity. Perennial have helped within the horticulture industry providing missing wellbeing services for today’s horticulturists. Perennial can support you and your family with financial advice, legal advice, and mental and physical health support.”

WHAT IS THE DIG DEEP FUNDRAISING LUNCH?

In its second year, the Fundraising Lunch is an annual celebration of Perennial’s supporters and their fundraising achievements. Last year’s event raised over £25,000 and 2025 is set to build on that success.

Far more than a social catch-up, the lunch is a heartfelt thank you to those who give their time, energy, and resources to support people in horticulture; whether retired or currently working in the industry.

“This lunch is more than just a catch up,” Mark explains. “It’s to build stronger social networks with our generous partners and supporters. It’s

an opportunity for us to thank those who pledge their time, energy and funds to our cause. And of course, at the lunch we are encouraging you to dig deep and help us fundraise.”

WHAT TO EXPECT ON THE DAY

Guests will enjoy a glass of fizz on arrival followed by a beautifully curated three-course lunch with wine.

Thank you to our menu sponsor, MorePeople, along with The Plantman & Co who are providing the bespoke table centre pieces.

After lunch, the spotlight will shine on standout supporters with the Silver Shovel Spotlight Recognition Awards, celebrating the tireless efforts of those who have made a difference throughout the year.

Adding a touch of fun and anticipation is the Envelope Raffle, sponsored by award-winning F.B & Sons Lawns & Landscapes, with silver and gold envelopes offering attendees the chance to win exciting prizes including: Mamma Mia Theatre Tickets, an Outdoor Pizza Oven and lots more.

The excitement continues with a live charity auction, sponsored by Melcourt and led by expert auctioneer Mark Head, who’ll encourage everyone to truly “dig deep” in support of Perennial’s work. Lots include a Night as Royalty at Hever Castle, Gentlemen’s Singles final tennis ball

and Kingscote Vineyard Tour and Tasting for Two.

SPECIAL GUESTS

Joining the event will be none other than Alan Titchmarsh CBE, Perennial’s President of over 20 years, who will deliver a welcome speech. Our special guest for the lunch will be Matthew Biggs, beloved radio personality and gardening enthusiast, bringing his unique wit and horticultural insights to the table.

FINAL THOUGHTS

The Dig Deep Lunch is not just an afternoon of celebration, it’s a chance to support the backbone of the horticulture world. Whether you’re a longstanding partner or attending for the first time, your presence helps Perennial continue its vital mission: to be there for all those in horticulture when they need it most.

GET YOUR TICKETS

Where: The Cumberland, Great Cumberland Place, Marble Arch, London, W1H 7DL

When : 10 October 2025 | 12:00 pm –4:30 pm

Tickets: £145 Standard Ticket, £1,305

Table of 10 (1 place free) All include a glass of fizz on arrival and a threecourse-meal with wine.

Booking Link : perennial.org.uk/ fundraising-lunch