2025 Customer Oily Rag_Spring-Summer

THE BOTTOM LINE NIGEL BOTTO

NEW SHOOTS OF GROWTH KEEPING FOCUSED & INSPIRED

As we quickly approach the summer of 2025, with even more new adventures planned, new challenges set and many opportunities out there, I am reminded just how incredibly lucky we are to have such a committed and focused team at Witham Group.

At the start of 2025, we all congregated at a hotel in the headquarters city of Lincoln for our annual Witham Group Team Dinner. It is my favourite night of the Witham calendar, with eight long service awards given out, spanning from 5-years’ service right up to 60-years continuous service!

Our average length of service now stretches to 16.5 years, which is staggering and humbling in equal measure. We all had a great night, and we raised an impressive amount of funds for our four chosen charities. More on the event later in this Oily Rag.

THE HIGHEST OF ACCOLADES FOR WITHAM GROUP

The end of 2024 will be one that will stick in my mind and many others for a Royal Celebration at Witham Group, with the notification of us being awarded HRH

The King's Royal Warrant. A mark of excellence at the highest level.

Our relationship with the Royal Warrant spreads back over three decades, with us first being awarded the honour by the late HRH Queen Elizabeth II back in 1991.

On top of the award from HRH The King, I have been asked and have accepted to be the President of the Sandringham

Association of Royal Warrant Holders later this year for a 12-month term. This honour is made even more special as I am one of only an exceedingly small handful of secondgeneration Presidents as I follow our Chairman, and my father, Geoff Bottom who was President of the same

Whilst we celebrate our own awards and milestones, we are delighted to celebrate with one of our long-standing customers, Thurlow Nunn Group who celebrate their 150-years of being in business this year with many events planned, in a hope to raise £150,000 for their chosen charity – Dementia UK. We started supplying some of our products to Thurlow Nunn Group over 50-years ago, and I am pleased to say, our relationship with them is still extraordinarily strong to this day.

Geoff Bottom - President Emirates RWHA

Happy Birthday to the TNS Team!

THE IMPORTANCE OF TRAINING

We have, in between looking after many existing customers, been fortunate to add a few great new accounts to the Witham Group in our first quarter. Some are more famous than others so keep your eyes open when watching the television especially Countryfile! to see if you can spot a selection of colour coded Witham Group Oil Tanks!

It is humbling and we are proud of where our reputation takes us. Recently, we have been introduced to a huge truck fleet plus a selection of farming enterprises, plant operators, plus one of the largest fleets of school minibus and taxis operators with new accounts opened and lubricants and paints being sent.

We have also seen a new account set up in the west of the country on the back of a tank installation we carried out in Suffolk many years ago! The first role for the newly appointed Farm Director was to ring Witham Group and ask us to mimic what he had experienced many years previous.

New Witham Customers - Cotswold Farm Park

ALWAYS TAKE INSPIRATION FROM OTHERS

We recently visited the largest leading lubricant technology company in the world at their European technical headquarters here in the UK. It was simply mind-blowing to see what fabulous development and high technical appreciation they have for their products, which we ultimately blend and sell to you, our customers.

Their tolerances for precision are without fault and with their back-up, we continue to progress with our highest quality and specification products to the industries we supply.

I also was lucky enough to be invited to Aston Martin Cars and JCB factories in the West Midlands. Both these visits were simply astonishing in terms of the scale of their sites, their production quality and innovations, their marketing prowess, and the professionalism of all that these most famous of British brands are. This also made me think about, in our own small way, how we try and approach all that Witham Group produce with the same high-quality goals and exacting standards in mind, even if we do not have the

We recently had an internal meeting at our headquarters with our senior leadership teams, where we discussed, in the main, new product launches and new procedures to speed up and make more efficient many processes within the company. We also spoke a lot about the ‘little things’ which make all the difference.

We always strive, as a company, for perfection (and in my mind, there is nothing wrong with this!) and I am proud that our fabulous Witham Team, through our ISO reporting procedures have reported a 98.6% “correct first time and in full” score for the past 12-month period which is something we are super proud of. However, I am positive some reading this Oily Rag will be within the 1.40% so I offer you my assurance we will keep on pushing for that 100% score!

As the summer approaches we look forward to welcoming new groups of visitors to our Witham sites, with a broad

Nigel & Geoff at the Aston Martin Head Office

The JCB Head Office in the West Midlands

THE BOTTOM LINE NIGEL

selection already booked in. We also have a number of training days with a selection of customers attending. We recently provided 2 days of training for an award-winning car & commercial business and went through many technical scenarios to ensure they know how they choose the correct lubricant to use, plus they were introduced to all our marketing assets and online support for their retail sales. We look forward to expanding this service and if you would like to be included, please drop us a message.

In addition to this we have taken our training and talks about Witham Group on the road with days in Dorset, Cornwall, Suffolk, and Cumbria to name but four with more planned over the coming months.

"DO NOT JUDGE EACH DAY BY THE HARVEST YOU REAP BUT BY THE SEEDS THAT YOU PLANT"...

So, springtime started with chilly and wet weather, frosts, and some snow, but has now started to warm up and the warmth of summer brings on the new growth. I align this to our business year so far.

A challenging start, with the Treasury's budget bringing challenges and worries to ours and many of our customer's balance sheets, along with Mr Trump's American Trade Tariffs which have placed the global economy and markets into turmoil. Plus, with the continuation of suspected imported lubricant goods from sanctioned Russia, the ongoing issues of product quality and business ethics in the markets is still apparent and I thank the Verification of Lubricant Standards (VLS) and the United Kingdom Lubricants Association for their hard work and support on these specific topics.

Yet now, as the sun warms us and with the hard work we have done in previous years, along with a committed focus, the core of the business is continuing to grow and get stronger and stronger. We will continue to look after the roots of our tree, support the strongest branches and of course every single leaf, be it returning year after year or any new ones on new branches. They are all as important to us and always will be. Robert Louis Stevenson the famous novelist once said “Please do not judge each day by the harvest you reap but by the seeds that you plant” and having seen our business over recent months and years, it definitely is the hard work and commitment to our many customers that will ensure the hopeful success of our tomorrow.

Thank you to everyone in the Witham Team and of course our valued customers. Please enjoy this edition of the Oily Rag.

Kindest regards

PROUD OF OUR ROYAL

As you will have seen, we were totally thrilled to have been granted a renewed Royal Warrant of Appointment as suppliers to His Majesty King Charles III. Royal Warrants change with each new monarch and are a prestigious mark of excellence, awarded in recognition of the supply of goods or services to the Royal Household and senior members of the Royal Family. This renewed appointment signifies continued trust and confidence in Witham Group's high quality products, services, corporate, social and environmental governance.

Witham Group were originally granted a Royal Warrant to HM The Queen in 1991. The Appointment was the start of a magical journey which has culminated in the company supplying lubricants and paints for the Sandringham Estate in Norfolk, as well as other connected properties, estates and farmland.

In his recent announcements, His Majesty King Charles III has retained 386 companies from his mother, Queen Elizabeth II's list of Royal Warrant holders, including renowned brands such as John Lewis, Waitrose, Jaguar Land Rover, and Barbour. Witham Group joins this distinguished group which is a testament to its long-standing commitment to quality, sustainability, reliability, and service.

The official letter from Buckingham Palace advising us that we had received the new Royal Warrant.

ROYAL WARRANT SUCCESS

Nigel Bottom, Group Managing Director of Witham Group, commented: “We are immensely proud to have this Royal Warrant granted by His

WITHAM GROUP NEWS

WITHAM TEAM RAISES £7000 FOR CHARITIES AT FUNDRAISING BALL

As mentioned previously, we were very proud to announce that our recent Annual Ball raised a fantastic £7,000 for four deserving charities. The money raised from our heads and tails game, auction and raffle, will make a real difference to the lives of many people in need. Proceeds from the ball were shared equally between the four deserving charities which were chosen by the Witham team:

LRSN

(Lincolnshire Rural Support Network): Offering crucial support to farmers and rural communities.

RNIB

(Royal National Institute of Blind People): Providing vital services to people living with sight loss.

THE LEWIS FOUNDATION:

Provides free gift packs and support to adults going through cancer treatment in hospitals across the Midlands.

LINCOLNSHIRE EMERGENCY BLOOD BIKES SERVICE:

Delivering essential medical supplies to hospitals across the county.

LORRAINE LEWIS, FROM THE LEWIS FOUNDATION, TRAVELLED ALL THE WAY FROM NORTHAMPTONSHIRE AND SAID:

"It was a fantastic surprise to discover the Witham Group had chosen to support The Lewis Foundation. What made it even more special was that a member of staff from the company decided to put us forward as we had supported a family member in the local hospital. Support like this makes the work we do possible to enable us to provide a variety of our care packs such as overnight sets, puzzle books and more, which helps to pass the time and provide comfort to an adult diagnosed with cancer in the hospital setting.

Thank you to everyone who took part on the night to make the work we do possible. Every pack costs £3.60, so the support given will help a lot of patients and their families in the Lincolnshire area.”

NEVILLE WRIGHT, CHAIR OF THE LINCOLNSHIRE EMERGENCY BLOOD BIKES SERVICE SAID:

“We are very grateful to have received this donation from Witham Group, which will help us supply Blood, Plasma, Blood Samples, Pharmaceutical, Surgical Instrument's, Breast Milk and many other much needed supplies between the Hospitals in Lincolnshire. It also helps us to supply fresh blood to the Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance every evening, 365 days per year.

In 2024 we carried out 2673 jobs, travelling 195,950 miles. All of this was "Free of Charge" to the NHS and is funded with the donations like the one we have received from Witham Group. This is all achieved with a fleet of 17 vehicles and 150 volunteers who give up their valuable time. On behalf of LEBBS. THANK YOU.”

NIGEL BOTTOM, MANAGING DIRECTOR OF WITHAM GROUP ADDED:

"We are incredibly proud of the generosity shown by everyone who participated in our Charity Ball. The £7,000 raised will make a real difference to the lives of many people in need. Charity support and putting something back into our communities is deeply ingrained in our company culture. We are committed to supporting our local communities and making a positive impact on society."

INTRODUCING OUR NEW WITHAM BRANDING

One of the new requirements of the Royal Warrant is a review of how the new Royal Crest is used within businesses. We have had to update and remove the Royal Crest from areas where it is no longer allowed to be shown or linked to our logos, so we have taken the opportunity to update our own corporate branding and logo to create a smarter new branding image, with or without the Royal Crest.

Taking the style back to our original Witham font of yesteryear and creating a new strong W ident, we are super excited about rolling this out over the weeks and months ahead. From product labels to our website, the outside of our factory to stationery, brochures and our lorry fleet, this is a big job but one that will help rationalise our brand for many years to come. Any customers requiring our new branding or logo for website links, or partnership marketing, signage or anything else, please do get in touch.

The cheque presentations took place at Witham Group’s head office in Lincoln with representatives from each of the charities.

WITHAM GROUP NEWS

NEW LUBRICANTS BROCHURE

We are thrilled to announce the launch of our new one stop shop, Lubricants & Greases product brochure. Available online 24 hours a day on our website or in print, this essential guide provides a complete overview of Witham Group’s extensive range of high-performance lubricants, grease, workshop and cleaning products, which are designed to help optimise performance for vehicles, machinery and equipment across a wide range of industries.

Packed with the latest specifications, pack sizes, and detailed product information for over 165 lubricants, greases, fluids, coolants, and workshop and cleaning essentials. This brochure is a definitive resource for our customers, their businesses and workshops, who operate vehicles and machinery in agriculture, automotive, plant & off road, commercial vehicles, horticulture, marine, estate and landowners and the classic and vintage sectors.

The brochure also includes information on our unique bulk tank storage solutions, the benefits of a free Technical Lubricant Survey, our leading environmental credentials

and growing biodegradable range of products, our online Lube Finder tool, our popular Own Label Service, as well as offering factory visits and tours.

"We understand the critical role lubricants play in ensuring the smooth and efficient operation of machinery and vehicles," says MD Nigel Bottom. "This new brochure is more than just a product catalogue; it's a valuable tool that allows our customers to make informed decisions and helps them understand what we can offer. Using the right quality lubricant can help reduce emissions, enhance fuel economy or prevent rust and corrosion so they are vital in the preservation and performance of machinery.”

To view a digital version of Witham Group’s new Lubricants brochure, please visit the downloads and resources section of our website or to request a printed copy, please contact us.

NEW DELIVERY DRIVERS JOIN THE WITHAM TEAM

A warm welcome to our two newest drivers at the Soham depot: Steve Melbourne and Nathan Woodlow. Nathan joined us in November after recently earning his HGV qualification and is enjoying life out on the road delivering products to customers. Steve brings valuable experience in goods delivery from his previous role in Cambridge. We're delighted to have them both on board.

NEW PRODUCT DISPLAYS IMPROVE CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE AT SOHAM DEPOT

The makeover of the Soham depot continues, and we are thrilled to unveil two exciting new displays designed to showcase our products and make the customer shopping experience even better.

We have installed a sleek, two-metre display unit, illuminated by energy-efficient LED backlighting, which highlights a new range of products.

We've also revamped our cleaning and decorating section. From heavy-duty truck cleaning supplies to gentle hand cleansers, we've got everything customers need to keep things clean. We've also created a dedicated floor paint display and stocked up on all your decorating essentials.

Finally, the brand new 2025 Teng Tools Catalogue has now arrived and is available for customers looking for quality tools they can rely on. Why not visit the Soham depot and see what they have to offer?

Nathan Woodlow

Steve Melbourne

WITHAM GROUP NEWS

WITHAM GROUP AT THE FLINTHAM & DISTRICT PLOUGHING MATCH & SHOW

The Witham Group team attended the Flintham & District Ploughing Match & Show last year and our stand was a hive of activity throughout the day, with many customers visiting to learn more about our latest agricultural products.

As always, we ensured all visitors enjoyed warm Witham hospitality.

YORKSHIRE AGRICULTURAL MACHINERY SHOW (YAMS)

The Witham Group team enjoyed a successful day at the Yorkshire Agricultural Machinery Show (YAMS) in February.

As the largest one-day machinery show in the north of England, YAMS attracts thousands of visitors to the York Auction Centre, and this year was no exception.

The Witham stand was bustling with activity, providing a fantastic opportunity to connect with existing customers and introduce our latest products to a wider northern audience.

We are now looking forward to the other agricultural and county shows that we will be attending this year. Hope to see you there.

MIDLANDS MACHINERY SHOW

In early November, Witham Group had a strong presence at the Midlands Machinery Show in Newark. This major agricultural event attracted a large and enthusiastic crowd, providing an excellent opportunity to connect with both existing and potential customers.

The Witham stand was busy throughout the show, allowing us to showcase our latest products and services to the agricultural community.

WITHAM GAINS RENEWED ISO ACCREDITATION

We were delighted back in February to receive a successful BSI Auditor’s report looking at ISO9001 & ISO14001, in particular the confirmed renewal of ISO9001 for the next 3 years. The ISO accreditations provide frameworks for improving quality, processes, safety, reducing environmental impact, and demonstrating commitment to sustainability, within business. The Auditor commented:

“The Integrated Management System is in line with the needs of the business and is well defined and implemented. Environmental Improvement & sustainability is a key part of the company strategy and management commitment is well demonstrated. Quality & Environmental objectives have been set which are in line with the strategic direction of the business.

WITHAM GROUP PRODUCTS SHINE AT LAMMA

Back in January, the LAMMA Show was held at the NEC, a leading agricultural machinery event, which saw record breaking attendance with over 40,000 visitors.

Whilst we did not have our own stand, our sales team were on-site, experiencing the latest innovations in the industry and seeing our products in action in some of our customer's machinery.

Many impressive machines on display proudly showcased their finishes achieved with Witham Woco paints. Furthermore, numerous machines were powered and lubricated by our high performance Qualube lubricants.

In review: the audit objectives have been achieved and the certificate scope remains appropriate. The audit team concludes based on the results of this audit that the organisation does fulfil the standards and the audit criteria identified with the audit report and it is deemed that the management system continues to achieve its intended outcome.”

9001 / 14001

WITHAM IN THE NEWS

WITHAM’S WORLD OF LUBRICANTS GAINS GROWING COVERAGE

Keeping people up to date with all the latest lubricant and technical news is an important part of what we do and we have been working with various media partners across the Agricultural, Commercial Vehicle, Plant & Offroad and Gun Care sectors to raise awareness of the Witham Group brand and product ranges. We are proud to help editors write informative articles that help educate customers about the world of lubricants, latest updates and offerings available and have been delighted to appear in many trade magazines recently.

VINTAGE QUALUBE OIL CAN SPOTTED ON "SHED & BURIED" TV SHOW

We got a nice surprise watching TV restoration show "Shed and Buried" recently… A classic Qualube Motor Oil can from the 1950's made a cameo appearance in Season 5, Episode 15 (set in Bournemouth).

It was fantastic to see a piece of our heritage featured amongst the treasures unearthed by Henry Cole and Fuzz Townshend. Seeing it in a collection of automobilia reminds us of the long history behind our brand.

KEEPING RUST AT BAY: PROLAN SHINES IN INDEPENDENT TESTING

We're thrilled to announce that our Witham Group Prolan range of non-toxic rust prevention lubricants has been recognised once again for its exceptional performance!

In a recent article published in the Lambretta Club Great Britain 'Jet Set Magazine', Prolan outperformed other rust inhibitors in a rigorous six-month field trial.

The trial compared the effectiveness of short term and long term rust prevention treatments on worn agricultural parts. Our Prolan Light Grade emerged as the top performer among short term solutions, demonstrating minimal corrosion after six months of outdoor exposure.

For long-term protection, Prolan Heavy Grade showed comparable results to a leading competitor.

Prolan rust prevention lubricants offer significant advantages:

ʆ ENVIRONMENTAL FRIENDLINESS:

Fully biodegradable, non-toxic, food safe and water safe.

ʆ SAFETY: Free from the health and environmental concerns associated with usual comparable products.

ʆ LONG LASTING AND VERSATILITY:

Available in a wide range of sizes to suit an extensive range of applications, the Prolan range has tried and tested longevity results for rust prevention, meaning less need to reapply, saving time and money.

PRODUCT & TECHNICAL UPDATES

VLS URGES CUSTOMERS TO NOT CHOOSE THE WRONG OIL

The lubricants trade body, the Verification of Lubricant Specifications (VLS), is urging workshops not to be tempted to use poorer quality oil amidst rising costs and decreasing margins this year. This recently released article underpins the need for quality lubricants, good advice and not being tempted by cheaper and possibly uncertified products.

According to the latest annual survey of vehicle repairers from The Motor Ombudsman, profitability was a major challenge for workshops in 2024. When asked about their main operational challenges during the year, 69% reportedly responded: “Having to raise prices to stay profitable”, and 59% said: “Higher energy bills and costs reducing business profitability." Looking ahead to 2025, 89% said rising operational costs, taxes and energy bills were the main challenges for their business going forward.

Commenting on the data, Harald Oosting, Chairman of VLS, said: “Economic pressures are hitting workshops and motorists hard, and the current UK economy has yet to show strong signs of growth. Workshops will be looking to save costs wherever they can, but we urge technicians to ensure they are using quality engine oils and the correct oil for every vehicle they service.

Poor quality or the wrong oil can cause damage to emission control systems, accelerated wear in gears and bearings, formation of piston deposits leading to increased maintenance costs and if left unchecked, eventual engine failure.

Modern vehicle engines require sophisticated lubricants using advanced chemistry. Even the slightest change in the formulation has the potential to cause engine damage over the long term. When selecting the correct lubricant, technicians must look beyond the viscosity to market standards such as those of ACEA and OEM specifications and be careful with generic OEM claims such as ‘Suitable for Use’ without checking the necessary underpinning technical data that supports the claim.

Compared to standard formulations, cheaper products might contain reduced quality base oils, fewer additives or even untested additives. This can significantly affect

the lubricant, resulting in poor or possibly even dangerous performance compared to genuine products.”

Workshops are the front line and can also play an important role in helping customers understand why they shouldn’t put off engine oil servicing.

Harald continued: “Postponing oil changes or ignoring the oil warning light could starve the engine of vital lubricant, risking increased wear and, at worst, leading to a catastrophic event like an engine failure and a much more expensive repair later on. Delaying a service or oil change or using the wrong oil may also invalidate a vehicle’s warranty.

Customers might think skipping the oil change and filter replacement will save money. But sticking to the recommended service interval is crucial to maintain and protect the vehicle, which is likely to be worth a lot more than the cost of the oil change.

OEMs set oil change schedules for a reason. They know their engines, how they run on certain fuels and in specific regions, and they know how the engine oil, as well as other consumables, perform over time and mileage.

If the vehicle’s software is telling the driver that the car needs servicing, it should be addressed. Drivers with older vehicles need to know the recommended service and oil drain intervals and stick to them. Putting it off might seem like a short-term saving, but it could result in engine damage and high repair bills that could have been avoided.

Technicians must be aware that older vehicles are just as susceptible as newer models to problems if the wrong oil is used. Using the right oil is just as important for a 20-yearold car as it is for a two-year-old vehicle. Workshops should always check and use the correct product, whatever the vehicle and its typical usage.”

WITHAM COMPLETES CARBON LITERACY CERTIFICATE

We are delighted that two of our Associate Directors, Graham Dawson and Ian Wright have recently completed the coveted Carbon Literacy Certification.

The Carbon Literacy Project offers a program that aims to empower individuals and organisations to understand and reduce their carbon footprint. The Carbon Literacy course covers the science behind, social equity & climate change, actions to take, and strategies for communicating about climate action.

It's a tangible reminder of an individual's commitment to reducing carbon emissions and can act as a tool for holding oneself accountable to take ongoing action.

This certification helps underpin Witham Group’s ongoing commitment to a Carbon Literate workforce and to reducing our carbon footprint wherever possible. Further training and certifications are planned during the rest of the year.

GOING GREENER: 25LTR CONTAINERS NOW 35% RECYCLED

We have recently made a significant step forward in our commitment to sustainability and this year’s new Environmental objectives. Starting from March, all our 25ltr containers will be manufactured with 35% Post-Consumer Recycled (PCR) content. The sale of our lubricants in 25 litre drums accounts for 26% of our total packaging, so this will make a significant positive impact.

This increase from the current 30% PCR content demonstrates our ongoing dedication to reducing our environmental impact. By incorporating more recycled materials into our packaging, we are minimising waste and contributing to a more circular economy. A review of all our packaging materials is ongoing this year with hopefully more improvements still to come.

PRODUCT & TECHNICAL UPDATES

NEW QUALUBE SOLABRIGHT - A SHINING ADDITION TO OUR CLEANING RANGE!

THE BACKGROUND

According to recent data, the UK has seen a significant increase in solar panel installations, with a reported 6.6% rise in solar capacity since January 2023, reaching a total of 15.7 GW across 1.4 million installations as of January 2025. This means a substantial growth in domestic solar adoption across the country. The UK has witnessed a steady rise in the adoption of solar energy in recent years. The combination of government incentives, technological advancements, and growing environmental awareness have fuelled its growth in the domestic and commercial markets.

We have also seen fresh policy commitments, with the new government promising a “rooftop revolution”, which aims to triple the UK’s solar capacity by 2030. Since coming into office, the government has also greenlit 2GW worth of solar farm capacity, more than the last 14 years combined. With further eco-friendly policies set to come into force over the coming years, there is huge optimism for the future of the country and its potential to become a leading green power.

THE SOLUTION...

THE PROBLEM

Over time dirt, dust, debris, and other contaminants build up on solar panels which can significantly reduce their efficiency by blocking sunlight from reaching the photovoltaic cells. In turn, this leads to a decrease in electricity production. Therefore, specialised cleaning products are required to safely remove these substances without damaging the panel surface.

All these solar panels, whether domestic or commercial need cleaning to maximise the energy they produce. In fact, regular cleaning can boost solar panel efficiency by up to 20%!

Step in our New Qualube SolaBright - a carefully formulated cleaning solution specifically designed for maintaining the efficiency and longevity of solar panels. It effectively removes lichen, mould, dirt, grime, bird droppings, and other residues without causing damage to the delicate surface of the panels. Qualube SolaBright is a pH neutral, low foaming detergent ideal for all types of domestic and commercial solar panels. Available in 5 or 25 litres – this product is now available and full details can been seen in the cleaning products section of our website.

GAME CHANGING FUEL ECONOMY SAVINGS WITH

SUPER HD FE 5W30

Earlier this year, we launched the new Super HD FE 5W-30, updated with the latest specifications for Daimler and Volvo commercial fleets. This product is “the fuel economy game changer” and now, thanks to research from the additive company Chevron Oronite, testing has now proved that fuel economy is definitively improved using this product in heavy duty engines as opposed to traditionally recommended 10W-40 viscosity oil.

THE RECENTLY PUBLISHED REPORT CONCLUDED THAT IN COMPARABLE TESTS, FUEL ECONOMY IMPROVED BY 1.31%

Fleet sizes of commercial vehicles of course vary in size but based on this increase and the following assumptions:

150,000 km

Average truck annual mileage

11.5mpg

Average truck fuel consumption

£1.10 Price of diesel per litre

Each truck would use 37,950 litres of fuel at a cost of £41,934. Applying the improvement in fuel efficiency of 1.31%, the same truck would use a reduced 37,459 litres of fuel – at a cost of £41,392 (491 litres less) saving £542 per truck. For commercial vehicle business owners with the following example size of fleet, there are the real cash savings potentially made, just by switching to this lower viscosity engine lubricant.

POTENTIAL SAVINGS ACHIEVED

20 Vehicle Fleet

£542 x 20

£10,840 pa

50 Vehicle Fleet

£542 x 50

£27,100 pa

100 Vehicle Fleet

£542 x 100 £54,200 pa

120 Vehicle Fleet

£542 x 120

£65,040 pa

These savings are per year, so over a 3 year period, the saving from the oil switch would potentially be £195,120 for the largest vehicle fleet example. Please contact us if you would like to find out more about how our products can help with your fuel economy, or if you would like a FREE technical lubricant survey carrying out on your fleet.

INTRODUCING OUR NEW BRAKE & CLUTCH CLEANER

Our new Qualube Brake and Clutch cleaner is a highly effective cleaning solvent, formulated to remove oil, grease, brake fluid and other contaminants from brake components of vehicles (both heavy duty and automotive). It has a fast drying, fast evaporation formula, and ensures residue free surfaces which in turn improves the braking performance and lifespan of the brake systems.

The new product is live on our website and available to order from our depots. Keenly priced, this is a great new addition for all your brake and clutch maintenance needs.

RECYCLING NEWS WITHAM GROUP DEVELOPS NEW ROBUST WOCO

PAINT PRIMER FOR BAILEY TRAILERS

"We are incredibly proud to have partnered with Bailey Trailers to develop this robust primer solution," said Witham Group’s David Lagden. "Our team's dedication to innovation and our commitment to delivering high-quality products have enabled us to create a primer that truly meets the demands of modern agricultural environments. We understand the importance of durability and longevity for Bailey Trailers' customers, and we are delighted to have played a key role in enhancing the protection of their trailers with our Woco paint.”

Witham Group remains committed to continuous innovation and collaboration with industry leaders like Bailey Trailers, ensuring that their products consistently meet and exceed expectations.

Witham Group is thrilled to announce the successful development and implementation of a new, high-performance WOCO 2k primer system for Bailey Trailers, significantly enhancing the protection of their trailers against impact damage from debris.

Responding to Bailey Trailers' need for increased durability on trailer sides, Witham Group's expert chemists embarked on a rigorous development process. Over several months, numerous WOCO 2k primer recipes underwent extensive testing, including impact and cross-hatching trials on steel plates. Once a promising formula was identified, it was applied to Bailey trailers for real-world evaluation at their factory.

The collaboration between Witham Group's Paint Technical Expert, David Lagden, and Michael Bailey, alongside Bailey Trailers’ paint shop team, proved instrumental in refining the application process. This close partnership resulted in a cuttingedge twin-pack hybrid primer system, with exceptional build and enhanced performance qualities.

This new primer complements the existing two-pack coating previously developed for Bailey Trailers' headboards, providing robust protection for modern high-speed agricultural operations.

30 YEARS STRONG: WOCO PAINT STILL SHINING

At Witham Group, we have always prided ourselves on our commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainability. But sometimes, the most remarkable stories begin with a simple can of paint. One of our long-standing, twogeneration customers recently shared a fascinating tale.

Over 30 years ago, they purchased a batch of not quite perfectly matched

“Mid Brunswick Green” Woco paint in a Hammer finish gloss that was at reduced price. The paint was on sale as the colour match was not to the usual standard. The product was to paint his farm machinery and the customer said he still liked the colour despite it not being the perfect shade.

This special offer proved to be a stroke of luck. The paint, while not quite the perfect colour, was undeniably high quality and fantastic value and did a great job.

Little did we know then that this seemingly ordinary transaction would spark a trend that would shape our future. Our customer’s satisfaction with the product led to us offering bespoke colours on our industrial and decorative paints, tailored to the specific needs of customers, particularly farming estates and their personal choice of colour schemes across the UK.

Today, Witham Group supply hundreds of thousands of litres of different types of paints and coatings with bespoke colour ranges for customers. We are so proud to see this customer still using the same paint from the same tins, all these years later. This story is a testament to the enduring power of quality of our Woco Paints and the unexpected ways in which innovation can emerge.

TECHNICAL SUPPORT

WITHAM GROUP

CUSTOMER STORIES

G & J STAINES RECEIVE THE FIRST DELIVERY OF THEIR OWN-LABEL PRODUCTS

We are pleased to announce that G & J Staines, based in Essex, have received their first delivery of products featuring their new own label design.

This marks a significant milestone in our partnership with G & J Staines, as we now supply both their lubricants and barn paints across their sites in Essex and Norfolk.

We are confident that the new own-label design we have created will enhance the customer experience and strengthen the G & J Staines brand.

FROM FARM TO FIELD: PAUL SAXON'S UNIQUE DUAL DRIVE TRACTOR

Remember the Dual Drive tractors of the 1950s and 60s? These ingenious machines, pioneered by Ernest Doe, combined the power of two Fordson Majors to create a formidable four wheel drive workhorse. While these iconic tractors have become a part of agricultural history, their spirit lives on in the hands of innovative farmers like Paul Saxon.

Between managing the drilling and harvesting of 5,000 acres of peas for JE Hartley, Paul embarked on a remarkable project: building his own unique Dual Drive tractor. Drawing inspiration from the past, Paul, with his impressive engineering skills, set out to create a modern interpretation of this classic concept.

One of the key challenges in designing a Dual Drive tractor lies in the complex gear selection system. Paul cleverly addressed this by utilising an air compressor, originally mounted on one of the Fordson Majors, to control the gear selection on the front unit. This innovative approach eliminates the need for traditional slave cylinders, enhancing both efficiency and reliability.

When it came to painting his creation, Paul sought a colour scheme that reflected his personal style and complemented the unique design. After exploring various options, he chose Woco QDP559 in RAL 5002 for the striking blue accents, paired with RAL 9003 Signal White for a classic and clean look. A touch of satin black on the front guard and radiator grilles completed the distinctive aesthetic.

The result is the "Saxon Dual Drive," a testament to Paul's ingenuity and a fitting tribute to the original Dual Drive tractors.

You can catch a glimpse of this remarkable machine at the Newby Hall Tractor Fest event later in the year and hopefully see it in action at other events in the future. This unique tractor serves as a reminder that even in the modern era of advanced agricultural machinery, the ingenuity and craftsmanship of farmers continue to drive innovation.

WITHAM GROUP POWERS GERMAN ROAD TRIP

Witham Group proudly supported a recent four Mini Road trip by donating a range of essential automotive products.

Four Mini vehicles embarked on a 3000-mile journey across Italy, with a team of drivers and co-drivers including Ryan, Paul, Sarah, Geoff, Jack, Darren, and Carl.

To ensure a smooth and reliable journey, Witham Group supplied the team with:

1. PCMO 5W-30 C3 ENGINE OIL: Providing optimal protection for the Mini engines.

2. PENETRATING OIL: Essential for loosening any stubborn bolts or seized parts.

3. SCREEN WASH: Ensuring clear visibility for safe navigation across the Italian landscape.

4. BRAKE FLUID: Maintaining optimal brake performance for safe and confident driving.

Before setting off, all four Minis were serviced using Witham Group products, ensuring they were in peak condition for the challenging journey. The vehicles performed flawlessly throughout the 10-day trip, a testament to the quality of the products and the meticulous pre-trip service.

A TOUCH OF MARSHALL MAGIC: FINDING THE RIGHT OIL FOR A RARE TRACTOR

Recently, we received an enquiry from Mr. Stephenson in Yorkshire. He was seeking SAE 140 gear oil for his unique piece of agricultural history: a Marshall MP6 tractor.

For those unfamiliar, Marshall, with its roots in Gainsborough, Lincolnshire, produced a limited run of these impressive machines. Mr. Stephenson's tractor, a remarkable prototype, holds a special place in Marshall history. It was one of only 197 MP6 tractors ever manufactured and was used extensively for demonstrations by the company itself.

Adding another layer to this fascinating story, the tractor's journey began at Fox Plant (now Fox Owmby), a valued Witham customer. From there, it made its way to Frank Arden Farms, another esteemed Witham customer, before ultimately finding its new home in Yorkshire.

This encounter serves as a delightful reminder of the enduring legacy of Marshall tractors and the important role they played in shaping the agricultural landscape of our region. It also highlights the connections that bind our Witham customers together, sharing a passion for preserving these remarkable machines.

CUSTOMER STORIES

WITHAM GROUP ENHANCES PAINT PROCESSES FOR GT ENGINEERING LTD

Witham Group recently collaborated with GT Engineering Ltd, a leading agricultural engineering company in Lincolnshire, to improve their paint application processes.

During a site visit, our team identified several areas for improvement:

▶ INCOMPATIBLE PRIMER / TOPCOAT SYSTEM:

The use of a single-pack primer with a two-pack topcoat was identified as an unsuitable combination, potentially leading to adhesion issues and compromised paint durability.

▶ IMPROVEMENTS NEEDED ON BOOTH: Although well-ventilated, the spray booth lacked the necessary sealing for safe and effective application of isocyanate-based paints.

▶ APPLICATION:

The current application methods were contributing to inconsistent finish quality.

GT Engineering, which services and manufactures a wide range of farm equipment, was previously using a single-pack primer with a two-pack isocyanate topcoat, a combination that presented several challenges.

GT Engineering Ltd is now a satisfied customer and has chosen Witham Group as their sole paint supplier. This successful partnership demonstrates the value of our expert technical advice and high-quality paint solutions.

To address these concerns, we offered a comprehensive training session on our range of high-performance, isocyanate-free paint systems.

Following the successful training, GT Engineering Ltd has transitioned to our recommended system:

▶ WOCO TDS 625 TWO-PACK EPOXY PRIMER: Provides excellent adhesion and corrosion resistance.

▶ WOCO TDS 678 TWO-PACK EPOXY / ACRYLIC FINISH: Offers a durable, high-quality finish with excellent weather resistance.

SUPERCOTE PROM NIGHT WITH A JOHN DEERE TOUCH UP

One of our customer’s daughters, Imogen Ward, recently made a unique request of her father, Max, to drive her to her prom in one of the Ness Hall Ltd John Deere tractors!

To make the occasion even more special, Max had a personalised nameplate crafted and secured to the front of the tractor's weight box.

Recognising the need for a touch-up, Ness Hall Ltd promptly ordered Supercote John Deere Green and Yellow from Witham Group.

The weight box was expertly repainted in time for the big night, ensuring the tractor looked its best for Imogen's special evening.

OPTIMISES OPERATIONS WITH NEW OWN LABEL RANGE & BULK STORAGE SOLUTION

In October, Blacktrac Compact Tractors in Wellingborough made the decision to transition from barrel storage to bulk oil storage tanks. After careful planning and collaboration, Witham Group successfully delivered and installed the tanks in early November.

This significant upgrade has given several benefits for Blacktrac, including increased workshop space, improved inventory management, and streamlined operations.

Building on this successful collaboration, Witham Group has also worked with Blacktrac to develop own-label service kits for their new Honda ATV dealership. This follows the successful implementation of own-label products for their Solis tractor dealership, enhancing our partnership further.

We caught up with Jack Blackman, owner and founder of Blacktrac, to find out more about his business. Read the full article on page 48

WITHAM ATTENDS CLARKES OF WALSHAM OPEN EVENING

We recently had the pleasure of attending a late-night shopping event hosted by Clarkes of Walsham, one of our distributors, in support of their local community.

The evening was a resounding success, with a lively atmosphere and live music. There was lots of interest in the Witham stand and our lubricants and paints, and it was great to meet so many customers.

Thanks to Clarkes of Walsham for a great event.

The full range of Blacktrac Compact Tractors own labels

CUSTOMER STORIES

NEW NATIONAL PARTNERSHIP

We are thrilled to announce a new partnership with Crouch Recovery in Kibworth, Leicestershire. As specialists in nationwide and European breakdown cover, Crouch Recovery has chosen Witham Group as their preferred supplier for all lubricants, greases, and select paints for their entire recovery fleet.

This partnership further solidifies Witham Group's position as a leading supplier to the transportation sector. We are proud to support Crouch Recovery in their critical mission of providing essential roadside assistance.

NEW FACTORY FLOOR FOR KELMORE LTD

We are also delighted to announce a new partnership with Kelmore Ltd, a renowned UK manufacturer of high-quality tile adhesives and grout. We recently supplied lubricants, grease, and our durable floor paint to enhance their workshop.

The factory floor, which had become worn and difficult to maintain, has been revitalised with the application of Woco Koverflor Type D, creating a defined and professional workspace.

WITHAM GROUP SUPPLIES N.D CIVILS & GROUNDWORKS LTD

ND Civils & Groundworks Ltd are an experienced, family run Civil Engineering company located in the North West of England and we are delighted that they are now a valued customer of Witham Group.

We are supplying their ongoing requirements for lubricants and greases for their construction equipment and this partnership further strengthens Witham Group's presence in the plant and off-road construction sector.

WITHAM ENVIRONMENT UPDATE

As you know, Witham Group has been trading since 1921 and is a leading independent manufacturer of lubricants and supplier of paint and coatings throughout the UK. It is a privately owned, family run business with its head office and lubricant manufacturing site based in Lincoln and a distribution centre, trade shop and decorating centre based in Soham.

Over the past century, we are proud to have grown a rich heritage and strong reputation built on quality, looking after our customers, our people and the environment.

Despite the huge range of products being manufactured and supplied by us, our aim is always to operate within a climate of excellence, not only in terms of service and procedures for customers, but also for systems of product manufacture, the welfare, health and safety of all of our employees and those affected by our activities. We aim to operate with corporate care and social responsibility.

In an industry where traditionally additives, chemicals and fossil-based products are essential to the manufacturing process, we have challenged ourselves to ensure, wherever possible, the environment is at the heart of our activities. We are working extremely hard to create a “greener culture” within our business. Included in this policy is a summary of what we have achieved and are continuing to improve on throughout the Group.

In order to achieve this, the business recognises that promoting sustainability and protection of the Environment and the avoidance of pollution, is of the utmost importance, not only for the here and now but for the future of everyone. Several years ago, Witham Group challenged ourselves to review our industry’s traditional practices and develop innovative change that is making a real difference.

We have updated our Environmental Policy, with its goals, aims and objectives, to reflect our determination to ensure that wherever practically possible, our activities including purchasing, manufacturing, distribution, energy use, waste generation and disposal, will minimise the effect on the environment. At all levels, and within all functions of the Group, we are committed to continual improvement of our management systems and enhancement of our environmental performance.

Reviewed at regular intervals and on the agenda at board level throughout the business, we strive to continually improve all areas of our activities and the impact we have on the environment. We will always comply with relevant environmental legislation and industry codes of practice as well as any other compliance obligations, as a minimum level of performance.

Thank you

Group Managing Director

NEW ENVIRONMENTAL OBJECTIVES FOR 2025

1. CARBON FOOTPRINT MEASURING

To manage and understand the carbon footprint of our business, we aim to complete a full and approved methodology review of the products that we manufacture and what impact they have. Using the verified and approved methodology of the Union of European Lubricants Industry, we will complete this assessment of our Products during 2025 and then form a carbon reduction strategy further. We have already taken huge steps in reducing our carbon usage as a business with our innovative blending process which uses solar panels and ultrasound technology as opposed to the industry tradition of fossil fuel energy.

2. SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT

We are going to create a new supply chain management system to improve records of our suppliers, the risk, if any, they pose to us and to ensure we check their own environmental, social and corporate responsibilities to ensure we are only using companies with the highest standards going forward.

3. WASTE MANAGEMENT

We are going to collect all the data about our waste volumes and types of waste we create and also measure whether this is rising or falling over time, as well as find out from our waste suppliers how much is being recycled and how much more can be.

4. RECYCLING

We will review our recycling activities and see how they are improving. From packaging materials to barrels, we are increasing the levels of recycled materials in cardboard boxes and plastic containers and using better packaging systems like HIVE, reducing or eliminating plastic wherever possible.

5. WATER USAGE

We aim to report, on a rolling years basis, on the amount of water we use by collecting data from our water bills and setting up a spreadsheet / dashboard to also show how much rain water we are collecting to save water for washing vehicles. The vision is to reduce water consumption as much as possible over the years ahead.

THESE FIVE OBJECTIVES FOR 2025 ARE JUST SOME SPECIFIC AREAS WE WANT TO IMPROVE OVER THE YEAR AHEAD, OUR MANY OTHER ENVIRONMENTAL IMPROVEMENTS WILL CONTINUE TO BE DEVELOPED AT EVERY OPPORTUNITY.

ARE YOU READY FOR THE RUSH?

WHY EARLY HARVEST PREPARATION MATTERS

On any farm, the summer months leading up to harvest are a whirlwind of activity. Yet, amidst the long list of jobs, pre-harvest preparation is the cornerstone to a successful agricultural year. Leaving this crucial stage to the last minute can lead to costly breakdowns, lost time, and a significant dent in your productivity and profits.

Imagine the frustration of a combine harvester or baler grinding to a halt in the middle of a perfect harvest day. Often, this is the cause of overlooked maintenance and inadequate lubrication. Investing time in thorough preharvest checks and maintenance is not just about avoiding breakdowns; it's about maximising efficiency, extending machinery lifespan, and ensuring a smooth, profitable harvest.

THE POWER OF LUBRICATION

At the heart of reliable machinery performance lies correct lubrication. High-quality lubricants are more than just oil; they're a vital protective layer that:

ʆ EXTENDS MACHINERY LIFE: Reduces wear and tear on critical components, preventing premature failure.

ʆ IMPROVES FUEL ECONOMY: Minimises friction, allowing engines to operate more efficiently.

ʆ PROTECTS VITAL COMPONENTS: Shields against corrosion, heat, and contaminants, ensuring optimal performance under demanding conditions.

ʆ REDUCES DOWNTIME: Properly lubricated machines run smoother and more reliably, minimising costly interruptions.

WITHAM

GROUP: YOUR ONE-STOP SHOP FOR HARVEST LUBRICANTS

With over 100 years of experience serving the agricultural community, Witham Group understands the unique demands of farm machinery. As a leading UK lubricant manufacturer, they offer a comprehensive range of high-quality lubricants and greases designed to keep your equipment running at peak performance. Witham products are formulated to withstand the rigours of harvest, ensuring your machinery is ready for anything.

FREE LUBRICATION SURVEY

Not sure what lubricants you need? We offer a Technical Lubricant Survey to help to rationalise products and most of all show significant savings without jeopardising warranty, even on brand new machines.

A COMPREHENSIVE PRE-HARVEST CHECKLIST FROM THE WITHAM AGRICULTURAL TEAM

Witham Group always advise getting the recommended lubricants for individual machine specifications. We will conduct a Technical Lubricant Survey on your entire fleet, helping to rationalise and cut down on unnecessary products. To help you ensure nothing is overlooked, Witham’s expert Agricultural Team has compiled a detailed checklist:

▶ ENGINE OIL AND FILTERS:

• Drain and replace engine oil with the recommended grade for your machinery (look up your machinery model on Witham’s free online lubricant finder tool)

• Replace the oil filter to ensure clean oil circulation.

• Check for any oil leaks and fix

▶ TRANSMISSION AND HYDRAULIC FLUIDS:

• Inspect fluid levels and top up or replace as needed with the recommended grade for your machinery.

• Check for leaks and ensure proper operation of hydraulic systems.

• Check the hydraulic filters and replace if needed.

▶ COOLING SYSTEM:

• Check coolant levels and top up with the correct coolant/ antifreeze mixture.

• Inspect hoses and belts for cracks or wear.

• Clean the radiator and ensure proper airflow.

▶ GREASE POINTS:

• Thoroughly grease all moving parts, including bearings, joints, and linkages.

• Use correct specification grease that can withstand heavy loads and extreme temperatures.

• Pay special attention to header and feeder house components on combines.

▶ AIR FILTERS:

• Clean or replace air filters to ensure optimal engine performance.

• Dirty air filters reduce fuel efficiency and can damage the engine.

▶ TYRES AND WHEELS:

• Check tyre pressure and ensure proper inflation.

• Inspect tyres for damage or wear.

• Tighten wheel nuts to the correct torque.

▶ COMBINE HARVESTER SPECIFIC CHECKS:

• Inspect and adjust sieves, concaves, and rotors.

• Check the condition of belts, chains, and sprockets.

• Inspect the header and feeder house for any damage or wear.

• Check all sensors and electronics are functioning correctly.

▶ GENERAL INSPECTION:

• Inspect all lights, signals, and safety equipment.

• Check for any loose bolts or fasteners.

• Test all controls and functions.

▶ EMERGENCY TOP UP LUBRICANTS:

Check oil and grease quantities for emergency top ups.

▶ MACHINERY CLEANING:

Clean the dust and dirt off machinery with a cleaner such as Witham general purpose Traffic Film Remover cleaner (TFR).

▶ CORN DRYER

• Clean out dust and debris

• Check and lubricate belts, pullies, fans and chains.

A fleet of balers having an annual service with Witham Qualube lubricants.

The gear system on a baler being topped up with Qualube HP EP Gear Oil SAE 85W-140.

A baler being serviced. The old gear oil was drained and replaced with Qualube HP EP Gear Oil SAE 85W-140.

The hydraulic systems on a combine being checked and topped up with the recommended grade of Hydraulic fluid.

HANDY HARVEST MAINTENANCE CHECKLIST

TYPE OF FARM EQUIPMENT

COMBINE & FORAGE HARVESTERS

MAINTENANCE CHECKS

COMBINE HEADER: Grease moving parts, check drive shafts, chains and belts.

COMBINE ENGINE:

Replace engine oil and filters

TRANSMISSION & HYDRAULIC SYSTEMS:

Inspect fluid levels and top up with recommended grade

PULLIES, SPROCKETS & BEARINGS:

Ensure proper lubrication for all pulley bearings and belt tensioners

COOLING SYSTEM:

Check coolant levels and top up

CHAINS:

Check chains and apply appropriate chain lube

TRACTORS ENGINES:

Replace engine oil and filters

TRANSMISSION & HYDRAULIC SYSTEMS:

Check fluid levels, replacing filters if needed.

COOLING SYSTEM:

Check coolant levels and top up with correct coolant /antifreeze

BEARINGS, PIVOT POINTS, & CV JOINTS:

Inspect and grease.

GRAIN TRAILERS GREASE POINTS:

BALERS

MOWERS

CORN DRYER

MACHINERY CLEANING

Axels, wheel bearings and hydraulic rear doors

GEARS:

Drain gear oil and replace with recommended grade for machine.

HYDRAULIC SYSTEMS:

Top up hydraulic oil

BELTS, PULLIES, SPROCKETS & BEARINGS

CHAINS:

Keep drive chains operating smoothly with proper tension and lubrication that includes an Anti-fling additive.

COMPRESSORS:

Top up any compressors with the recommended oil

PTO SHAFT: Inspect & grease

BELTS, PULLIES & CHAINS

BEARINGS

BELTS, PULLIES & CHAINS

BEARINGS

ALL PARTS: Clean the dust and muck off machinery

EXAMPLE PRODUCTS

Qualube Lithium Complex Grease

Qualube Masterfleet 10w-40

Qualube Hydrapower HV46

Multi-Purpose EP2 Calcium Grease

Qualguard ORATEC Concentrated Coolant

Qualube Chain Oil or Qualube Clear Chain Spray

Qualube Masterfleet HD 10W-40

Qualube Agri-Supreme 10W-40 or Qualube WBTO

Qualguard ORATEC Concentrated Coolant

Qualube Lithium Complex

Multi-Purpose EP2 Calcium Grease

Qualube HP EP Gear Oil SAE 85W-140

Qualube Hydrapower HV46

Multi-Purpose EP2 Calcium Grease

Qualube Chain Oil

Qualube Compressor 46 Oil

Qualube Lithium Complex

Qualube Clear Chain Spray / Prolan Medium

Multi-Purpose EP2 Calcium Grease

Qualube Clear Chain Spray / Prolan Medium

Qualube Lithium Complex

Witham General Purpose Traffic Film Remover Cleaner

To find the right Agricultural Lubricants, Greases, Rust Prevention and Cleaning Products visit our website or contact us today.

OUR AWARD WINNING NATURAL HIGH PERFORMANCE LUBRICANT RANGE

OUR AWARD WINNING NATURAL HIGH PERFORMANCE LUBRICANT

In recent years there has been a global move towards more environmentally safe and sustainable products and people are increasingly demanding more environmental alternative lubricants and greases. Prolan lubricants are truly remarkable long lasting, non-toxic and water safe products, which give outstanding lubricating results, reduce wear and save time and money on the usual multiple re-applications. The Prolan range is non carcinogenic, biodegradable and environmentally safe. It has excellent rust protection properties and completely frees up rusted and stuck parts.

THE BENEFITS OF PROLAN

Prolan products are made with lanolin derived from sheep’s wool. Lanolin is a powerful natural product often known as ‘wool grease’ and has been used for centuries as a natural moisturiser and protector. Raw lanolin is a natural substance secreted by sheep to provide a protective coating on their fleece for protection in harsh conditions. Once the sheep have been shorn, the fleece undergoes a scouring and refining process to extract the lanolin and to clean the fleece.

Prolan works on almost any surface including metal, rubber, steel, vehicles, vinyl and painted areas. Each of the 4 viscosity grades offer specialist benefits which include staying on in harsh conditions, lifting rust scale, resisting acids and alkalis, removing dirt and grime and of course eliminating squeaks!

ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY & SAFER TO USE

Our planet is under threat from the long term use of chemicals. Many customers require a high quality lubricant but now wish to have a more environmentally safe products on their machinery to protect their staff and the environment in which they work.

Lubricants and other chemicals can affect areas such as agricultural fields, waterways and forests. Prolan products are non-toxic, non-carcinogenic and biodegradable – making them safe for the environment and good for health and wellbeing. Prolan is an ideal lubricant range with unlimited use for any business that helps significantly in the ongoing fight against corrosion, and reducing wear and tear.

It is easy to apply and can increase machinery and equipment life and yet is the safer, greener and cleaner way to apply lubrication that will not leave any nasties for the user or the environment.

NON-TOXIC, FOOD & WATER SAFE

Prolan lubricants have gained a number of International Food Safety Approvals and in the UK are NSF approved for both H1 and H2 requirements. This means they are certified as approved ‘food-grade lubricants’.

The range is especially suitable for sensitive environments such as forests, waterways, food manufacturing, horticultural, agricultural and marine locations as well as a long lasting easy to use general lubricant for around the workshop or home. Prolan is an excellent wood preserver as it has added linseed which protects the wood from moisture, rot and greening. It is a safe alternative to Creosote. Using the correct lubricant in these sensitive situations is clearly crucial.

OUTSTANDING PERFORMANCE IN THE FIGHT AGAINST RUST

Powered by New Zealand based lanolin experts, this product range has been formulated by qualified engineers and lubricant specialists who understand the corrosion problems encountered by many industries. The key fact is that the environmentally friendly elements of this lubricant range do not compromise their performance. This range of products can be used in absolutely any industry and has won many awards for its many innovative environmental applications. This ultimate lubricant range comes in a handy spray, liquid or thick anti-seize grease depending on which of the four different viscosities you need for the job in hand. As more people and companies address the use of chemicals in their supply chain, and want to improve their sustainability credentials, this unbeatable high quality lubricant is the new popular choice for industry, business, workshops or home.

INNOVATION IN THE PITS

A STORY OF STEEL & SPIRIT

Mel Burrell was born in Quadring, near Spalding in South Lincolnshire, to a traditional local farming family and started life as a young welder and fabricator working for Pelican Engineering. As his skills developed, Mel wanted to better himself and so he took the plunge and set up Mel Burrell Fabrications from the bottom of his parents’ garden. Over 52 years later, Mel is the proud Managing Director of MBE fabrications Ltd and its subsidiaries, including Premier Pits, now exporting unique products all over the world. Here we find out more from Mel and his passion for innovative engineering.

During the early 1970s MBE Fabrications carried out fabrication work for local farmers in the Lincolnshire Fens. Working on hard his own for over two years, there was a high demand for fabrication work. “There was of course the miners’ strike, the 3 day week and lots of electricity cuts.” explains Mel. “I had a generator because the electricity board wanted 3 years supply and a fortune, so I could carry on working, often over 100 hours a week to keep up with demand, whilst nobody else could. During this time, I would weld like billy-o and had a full order book so I took on my first full time employee to help me – Gwyn Robinson who was a great help but sadly died in a tragic road accident. After that I took on Dick Woodhead who worked with me for over 35 years and his son Jonathan still works in the business today.

Farrow Irrigation was a big customer in the early days and manufactured a machine called the Dolphin. They used to subcontract the work out to me and I had regular all year round work, which was a big comfort for months ahead at the time. During this period agricultural equipment was in large demand and we took on a lot of work customising agricultural machinery and coming up with new ideas to help the local farming community. In 1986 we developed the Vegetable Harvesting System (VHS) a simple cup system for harvesting brassicas

and salad crops from the field, saving a lot of time, money and reducing damage for the growers. There had been nothing like this in the market and I made it for Aubrey Tasker of Gosberton Farm Produce, to help them reduce costs.

Over the years, the VHS system developed further to offer a wide range of seeding, planting and harvesting equipment and to this day we continue to make and supply these to growers all over the UK. We also developed a slewing cart which rotated through 360 degrees, it was for bulk/process work of cauliflower and calabrese. We took out a patent on that system which also brought in a lot of work. “Our ability to design and build bespoke machines from scratch and for all different types of crops is what set us apart. If you can solve a problem for people there is always an opportunity to develop new kit” adds Mel. “We’ve always prided ourselves on being able to step up to a challenge. We would make flotation cells in our factory, before cutting them in half, and placing them on a lorry to be delivered to Scotland, before reassembling. They would then be craned into position, as part of large water treatment works."

Mel Burrell (far left) and the Premier Pits team with a further 16 other employees working on site

"If you can solve a problem for people there is always an opportunity to develop new kit”

In the early to mid-90s Mel had a really tough time in his personal life and a slump in work due to a recession, he almost lost everything. His business was bought by the firm Meadowbank Engineering which helped him carry on trading, but he had aspirations and a determination to turn things around and then he earned enough money to repurchase the business. “So, I started again.” he explains.

“Veg was the main part of our business for a long time, however, we installed a vehicle inspection pit for Fruitex (owned by Alan Grimer, a local haulage company – now owned by Turners of Soham). During the winter months, the mechanics would wear gloves, and hats; but more important to us, wellies.

It turned out this was because the pits they worked in were made of concrete and would leak due to the rising water table in the area. I approached their operations manager to try and provide a fix for the problem.

So, we managed to solve the issue by installing a prefabricated steel vehicle inspection pit, which had been manufactured in our clean, well-monitored off-site facility. We went and dug the hole, lowered the inspection pit into the hole using spreader beams to retain the pit, then poured in the concrete and the rest is history! Despite a steep learning curve with the hole, substructure and soil type preparation, this pit was the first of its kind installed in the UK – and the start of something big for us! During the ‘90s, we began to transform the vehicle maintenance sector, by marketing and supplying nearly all new vehicle inspection workshops, along with replacing existing vehicle inspection pits within existing facilities, using our prefabricated steel method.

From this first job, our new complete ready made pits with no leaks, were a big hit. We started off with one installation team, led by Mick Sharples for over 30 years and organically grew from there with good marketing.

In 2004, we were approached by Northfield Construction to assist them on the new installation of a large substructure for British Gypsum, during a Christmas shutdown at their East Leak plant. They required a substructure to be installed in just 10 days. The timescale was something that would have been near impossible with in situ poured concrete. However, our prefabricated steel approach allowed Northfield to complete the work in just five days, derisking the programme entirely.

"My team and how we serve the customers are really important to me"

Today, we now have 4 installation teams and have over 50 people working for us, including the design, office, welders and fabricators, paint sprayers and commissioning work teams. As well as UK customers, we are global.

The main industry we supply to is the commercial vehicle sector, along with buses and coaches. A growing arena is the rail industry, where our products – two 50 metre pits are installed at Terminal 5, Heathrow airport, 12 metres below finished floor level. Prefabrication below ground level is what we do and therefore it could be for any market, including gymnasiums who need soft landing areas in bespoke holes in the floor. Compared to conventional pit builds, we were the first to deliver a complete package, pre made and pre painted ready for installation. Our site time is reduced by over 70% due to the fact that all the measuring and bespoke design is done in house and the pits just fit perfectly in the ground with minimum fuss.

We outsource our deliveries and equipment such as diggers, teleporters and dumpers but we do everything else and manage the project for the customer from inception and design, right through to installation, with all our employees on PAYE. In recent times, contractors struggle for labour so for us to be able to make a bespoke pit, dig the holes and install it already painted and connected to power and ready to go is a big advantage and a very effective choice for companies.

The VHS system developed in the 1980's is still used to this day

Today the business has 4 installation teams and over 50 people in total

For me, the secret to our success is our team. I would say whilst I am not perfect and am always willing to learn, I would say I have been a good man motivator hopefully and my team is really important to me and how we serve the customers We don't understand the term 'We can't do that'. We now export to 17 different countries at various times and have become particularly active in North America and Mexico. We have some great national partnerships with franchises in America and we hope this will continue in the months and years to come, despite Trump’s tariff chaos! We believe there is a huge market in America.

One of the most amazing locations that our pits have ended up in, is for the British Antarctic Survey team in Antarctica, where Boaty McBoatface, the famous ship and other vessels, deliver supplies and survey vehicles which all need maintaining, so the pit we made with all the right measurements and access requirements, is sitting in the Antarctic and even better its painted in Witham’s paint!

Whilst labour has been a challenge in the last 3-4 years, so has Brexit. Export orders into France and other European countries have definitely slowed down due to the costs of transportation and new trade administration and costs. The future however has phenomenal growth for us with contractors who need pits or substructures underground prefabricated and ready to go. We continually make advances and know there is always something to improve on and innovate. Our health and safety range which are basically pit covers, which are proving very popular. Whilst this is not law at the moment in the UK, we see health and safety requirements getting tighter all the time and would imagine that pit covers will become the norm here in a few years’ time.

Health and Safety is of the utmost importance to us and is for thousands of businesses, so our health and safety solutions have developed again to help people. Pit covers you can walk on are a great innovation that once again, solves a problem and opens an opportunity.

"I still get a huge buzz simply just from seeing lorries, packed full, leaving the factory and setting off to deliver our products around the UK and abroad"

I am proud of our innovations and our team, but I still get a huge buzz simply just from seeing lorries, packed full, leaving the factory and setting off to deliver our products around the UK and abroad.

Our suppliers underpin our business, suppliers that we can rely on and we started using Witham Oil and Paint around 1985, when we were developing and selling the vegetable harvester. Someone once told me -good firms deal with good firms and good people deal with good people.

Witham are a good firm with good people. We have had our ups and downs with some paint problems in the early days but your products are good. We get asked to swap paint suppliers all the time to competitors but we need reliability over time and we have worked hard with you to get to where we are today. We get looked after by you. Paint quality is so important for longevity, but the nature of our products mean they get heavy wear and tear over time so we cannot allow for how our customers look after things once they are fitted. We also use your lubricants for our machinery and vehicles and have no trouble at all.

"If I’d known the difference between manufacture and being a house builder, I would have been a house builder!!"

Looking back, I have loved and am proud of what we have achieved. I don’t know that I would do anything differently but perhaps to make more money, I should have maybe gone into the American market sooner or perhaps if I’d known what property prices would do, I'd have become a house builder!! Looking forward, I am staring on the horizon to retire at some point and leave the business in a good, safe and trusted pair of hands. I haven’t found a buyer with the right price like that just yet, so I will stay on until I am 80 if I have to, just to ensure the company stays on track and continues to be looked after, by new owners.

Over the last 30 years or so, I do feel that manufacturing has declined in people’s minds and isn’t as appreciated like it used to be. Manual labour is frowned upon now, whereas years ago it was a privilege to get a job in the local factory and work your way up. Practical jobs and skills are in huge demand and the youngsters just don’t seem to be as interested, so I hope that turns around for all manufacturers and businesses in the UK for now and long into the future. We need more entrepreneurs and SMEs to create wealth in this country.”

Fabricated parts are sprayed using Woco Paint

Products are designed from scratch for bespoke accuracy

Proud owners Mel and Kate Burrell

WITHAM COMMUNITY SUPPORT

LINCS & NOTTS AIR AMBULANCE

SAVING LIVES EVERYDAY

WITHAM GROUP DONATES PAINT TO SUPPORT LINCS & NOTTS AIR AMBULANCE HQ REFURBISHMENT

We were delighted to recently donate some paint to the Lincolnshire & Nottinghamshire Air Ambulance (LNAA) headquarters near RAF Waddington in Lincoln. The donation, generously supported by Crown Paints, will aid in the essential repairs and refurbishment of the LNAA’s offices.

As a long-standing supporter of the Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance, Witham Group was eager to assist with the

refurbishment project. "We are delighted to provide the decorative Crown paint required for the HQ refurbishment.," stated Nigel Bottom, Managing Director of Witham Group. "The LNAA provides a crucial service to our community, and we are proud to support their vital work."

The LNAA, an independent charity that receives no government funding, relies on the generosity of individuals and businesses to continue its life-saving missions. Joe Harper of LNAA expressed gratitude for the donation, highlighting its significant impact. “Gifts in kind offer just as much value as fundraising. Not only will this paint give a facelift to our HQ, at a value of £500 it covers the cost of a blood transfusion, a life-saving procedure that is carried out by our doctor and paramedic crews an average of four times a month. Thank you to Witham Group for their continued support.”

The paint donation reiterates Witham Group’s commitment to its local communities and appreciation of the invaluable service provided by the Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance.

HARPER ADAMS DINNER RAISES £3,000 FOR CHARITY WITH WITHAM SUPPORT

The Harper Adams University Annual Land Management Society Dinner was held last year and Witham Group were thrilled to be a part of it. Attended by land management students and future customers in the making, we donated prizes for the event's auction and raffle, which together raised a fantastic £3,000.

This generous sum will benefit two important charities: Yellow Wellies, working to address mental health challenges in rural communities, and Hannah's Willberry Wonder Pony, supporting osteosarcoma research and fulfilling the equine dreams of seriously ill individuals and their families. We are continuing to build relationships with this university and their agricultural and motorsport departments.

PAINT SUPPORT FOR LINCOLN RADIO SAILING CLUB

As winter months often mean boats are out of the water and in for repair, we were pleased to recently provide some paint to the Lincoln Radio Sailing Club based near Thorpe on the Hill in Lincoln.

A selection of WOCO Supercote paints were used to help spruce up their boat hulls, marker buoys and areas around the lake ready for their regular Sunday racing calendar.

INSPIRING THE NEXT GENERATION: WITHAM GROUP SUPPORTS

YOUNG CHEMISTS AT LINCOLN MINSTER SCHOOL

We were once again proud to champion the next generation of scientists by supporting the annual Alan Smith Chemistry Award at Lincoln Minster School.

This award, named in memory of our past colleague, chemist and MD, Alan Smith, who attended Lincoln Minster School, recognises exceptional achievement in chemistry at the school and is awarded annually at their annual prize giving held in Lincoln Cathedral.

The Lincoln Minster Chemistry Award (below) is named in memory of Alan Smith (pictured left)

WITHAM COMMUNITY SUPPORT

WITHAM GROUP SUPPORTS FIRST NATIONAL FESTIVAL OF CHAPLAINCY

The Witham marketing team has helped produce some promotional materials for a new Festival of Chaplaincy which was held in Lincoln Cathedral in March. The festival was a celebration of all the often-hidden work, chaplaincies carry out all over the UK, listening, supporting and advising people in a whole variety of industries and organisations.

The weekend started with a dinner for 500 people in the knave of the Cathedral, followed by an open day at the Cathedral with a huge variety of exhibitors, speakers, activities and performances for all the family.

The festival hopes to put Lincoln on the map as one of the most active chaplaincy counties in the country and the Cathedral is most honoured to be hosting this first national event.

WITHAM CONTINUES SUPPORT FOR RESCUE WOODEN BOATS

We were happy to recently provide some leaflets for the Rescue Wooden Boats Visitor Centre in North Norfolk. Lucy Lavers, a historic wooden lifeboat, was rescued from a deteriorating condition and painstakingly restored by a dedicated team of volunteers.

Once a vital part of the Wells-nextthe-Sea lifeboat fleet, Lucy Lavers now serves as a floating museum and educational resource, offering insights into maritime history and the brave crews who served aboard her, thanks to the passionate efforts that brought her back to her former glory

We are also proud to donate our Woco Marine paint for the ongoing restoration and maintenance of this famous lifeboat.

For more information about summer trips in Lucy Lavers, please visit http://www.rescuewoodenboats.com/

SPECIAL PURPLE PAINT HELPS DASTARDLY SOAPBOX GLORY

We received a rather unusual phone call recently from our customer Elphick Buildings Ltd, who needed a very specific shade of purple. It turned out they were building a soapbox for the Beccles Soapbox Derby, a race where karts are powered by nothing but gravity! Their chosen colour? "Dastardly Purple," of course!

Our expert paint-matching team rose to the challenge, creating the perfect hue for their gravitypowered racer. We're thrilled to report that the team’s eye-catching soapbox won the award for Best Looking Soapbox! Congratulations to them, and a testament to our team's colour-matching skills!

WITHAM DRIVES SUPPORT FOR EAST COAST MINI CLUB WITHAM'S

We are delighted to continue our support for the East Coast Mini Club. We have provided them with a promotional flyer to showcase both the club and our range of quality products at their various shows and events in 2025.

For over two decades, the East Coast Mini Club has been a pillar of the Mini community, and they're not just about admiring classic cars – they're passionate about giving back too. They've raised an impressive sum of over £20,000 for various charities over the years.

The club expressed their gratitude for our ongoing partnership, stating: "We would like to thank Witham for their support over the years, offering our members high-quality lubricants for their treasured Minis to keep them running for many years to come."

"BIG OR SMALL WE LOVE THEM ALL"

IS CREOSOTE STILL THE RIGHT CHOICE? A WITHAM GROUP PERSPECTIVE

Here at Witham Group, we understand the importance of preserving and protecting your exterior timber. We stock a wide range of exterior wood treatments including the preservatives traditional Witham Creosote and its modern alternative, Creocote. We often get asked: "Which is better?" The answer, as with many things, depends on your specific needs and priorities.

TRADITIONAL CREOSOTE: THE TIME HONOURED PROTECTOR

Creosote, a coal tar derivative, has been a mainstay in timber preservation for decades. However, in 2003, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) changed the law so that creosote was only available to professional users and has been withdrawn from sale for retail customers in the UK. This is due to its toxicity and potential harmful effects on health. Some predict that the law could change again, and creosote could be permanently banned in the UK.

In the meantime, Witham Group have been able to secure a supply of creosote for customers, available while stocks last.

THE KEY BENEFITS OF CREOSOTE ARE:

Exceptional Protective Properties: Creosote offers unparalleled protection against fungal decay, wood-boring insects, and weathering. It penetrates deeply into the wood, creating a robust barrier.

Longevity:

Timber treated with creosote can last significantly longer than untreated wood, especially in harsh conditions.

Proven Track Record:

Its long history of use provides a level of confidence in its effectiveness and is a popular choice traditionally with land owners and the agricultural and railway sectors.

IT'S ESSENTIAL TO KNOW THE DRAWBACKS:

Strong Odour:

Creosote has a distinct, pungent odour that can linger for some time.

Environmental Concerns:

Due to its composition, creosote is subject to environmental regulations, contains toxic properties, and its use is restricted in certain applications.

Appearance:

It imparts a dark, oily finish that may not be aesthetically pleasing for all projects.

Handling Precautions:

Creosote requires careful handling due to its potential irritation and toxicity.

CREOCOTE: THE MODERN ALTERNATIVE

Creocote is an oil-based wood preservative, which replicates the protective qualities of traditional Witham Creosote while addressing some of its limitations. From our experience, Creocote offers:

EASIER APPLICATION: It's generally easier to apply than creosote, with a less viscous consistency.

REDUCED ODOUR: While it still has the unique ‘creosote’ odour, it's significantly less intense and dissipates more quickly.

LOWER ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT: While still a chemical treatment, Creocote is formulated to have potentially less environmental impact than traditional creosote. It is also available to the public and trade alike.

SAFER HANDLING:

Creocote is considered less hazardous to handle than creosote, although appropriate safety precautions should always be taken.

WHICH SHOULD YOU CHOOSE?

From a Witham Group perspective, the "better" option depends on your specific needs:

▶ For maximum, long-lasting protection in extreme demanding environments (e.g. agricultural fencing, railway sleepers), creosote remains a potent choice, provided you adhere to safety and environmental guidelines.

▶ For general timber, sheds, and fences where aesthetics and ease of application are important, Creocote offers a viable and more user-friendly alternative, along with many other more decorative based exterior products that we stock such as our popular WOCO Barn Paint Range, Ronseal, Osmo and Sadolin products.

▶ Remember, traditional (original) creosote can only be purchased by professional users and registered trade account customers.

At Witham Group, we're committed to providing high-quality products and expert advice to help you achieve the best results for your timber preservation needs. We stock both Creosote and Creocote because we recognise that both products are needed for different applications. Whichever you prefer to use, just give us a call for advice and we will help you keep all your fencing and exterior woodwork protected throughout the year. In addition, we also stock a wide range of popular brands including Osmo, Ronseal, Barrettine and Sadolin to name a few. So, whatever your outdoor paint project is, we have everything you need.

LINCOLNSHIRE AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY

THE COUNTDOWN IS ON FOR THE 140TH LINCOLNSHIRE SHOW

One of the UK’s biggest county events, the Lincolnshire Show, is returning this summer for the 140th time. Taking place at the Lincolnshire Showground on 18th and 19th June this year’s Show is set to be bigger and better than ever, with exciting new attractions alongside traditional favourites. Host of the annual Show is of course the Lincolnshire Agricultural Society (LAS), dedicated to promoting food, farming, and the countryside to the county for over 150 years. Witham Group has been proud exhibitors and supporters of the Show and LAS since the 1950’s. We were delighted to catch up recently with Charlotte Powell, CEO of the LAS, to find about more about how events at the showground help the Society’s far reaching charitable activities.

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN ESTABLISHED?

The Lincolnshire Agricultural Society was founded in 1869, meaning we have been established for over 159 years. The Society was formed to promote and support Lincolnshire’s rich agricultural heritage. Originally created to help farmers and rural businesses share knowledge and showcase innovation, we have grown into a charity dedicated to educating and inspiring people about food, farming, and the countryside. The Lincolnshire Show, our flagship event, first took place in 1869 and has since become one of the county’s most celebrated traditions.

WHAT DOES THE LAS DO?

The work of the LAS is wide and varied. We run educational initiatives like Tractors into Schools, Farmhouse Breakfast Week and Agri Careers events, inspiring young people to learn about farming and food production. We also host major events, including the Lincolnshire Show, which welcomes thousands of visitors each year.

We host many other popular events such as the annual Lincolnshire Farming Conference, Countryside Lincs around Easter time and the Food & Gift Fair at Christmas. Based at the Showground location on the A15 just outside Lincoln, we also offer venue hire and catering for meetings, concerts and events of every size. From corporate meetings to weddings and festivals, we have a whole range of room sizes and facilities outside and inside to offer organisations.

Our passion to support the rural community continues by providing networking and development opportunities for those in the agricultural sector.

HOW MANY PEOPLE WORK FOR YOU?

We have a core team of 23 based at the Lincolnshire Showground, supported by volunteers, Trustees, and event staff. Our events, such as the Lincolnshire Show, also bring in hundreds of exhibitors and Stewards.

WHO ARE YOUR CUSTOMERS?

Mainly farmers, rural businesses, and food producers who showcase their work at our events. Then we have families, schools and colleges who engage with our education programmes, along with national and local businesses and organisations who use our venue for events, conferences, and exhibitions. We are supported and provide services to the wider Lincolnshire community and also have close links to the Young Farmers Clubs of Lincolnshire who attend our events and support our mission.

WHAT IS THE ETHOS OF THE LAS?

Our mission is to educate, inspire, and celebrate all things food, farming, and the countryside. As a charity, we are committed to supporting the agricultural industry and ensuring its future by engaging the next generation, including career opportunities. Education plays a huge part of our activities.

From primary to secondary schools, colleges, universities, and beyond we host and encourage activities to learn more about agricultural and horticultural and allied industries. For example, at this year's Lincolnshire Show Schools' Challenge, there will be hundreds of schools taking part in ten challenges to choose from and their focus is on inspiring young people to gain a better understanding of Lincolnshire's rich agricultural history, it's horticulture and land-based activities.

L A S Team

We were also very lucky to be left a working farm in Carlton le Moorland by a lady called Sheila Trafford in 2015. Sheila’s wish was that the farm should be used “for the support and education of young people in agriculture” and this is now known as "The Trafford Fund." After repairing and improving the farm site and property we have been able to let both the house and the land, which is now farmed in a sustainable way. As a result, the LAS trustees manage this estate for which it receives an appreciable rental income, some of which has been put towards the cost of a second Education Officer for the Society and further funds applied to help local young farmers to attend events such as the Oxford Farming Conference and attend courses like the Advanced Course in Agricultural Business Management, run by the Worshipful Company of Farmers. There have been several successful candidates for these events so far and we are hopeful of many more applicants in the future. We also can use this money to offer bursaries to specific Lincolnshire agricultural or allied industry entrepreneurs who may have a business idea that warrants support in a way we can help.

HOW HAS THE BUSINESS CHANGED OVER THE PAST 10 YEARS?

We have expanded our education and outreach efforts. We are supporting more schools and helping them learn about where food comes from than ever before. The Lincolnshire Show has evolved with new attractions, reflecting modern agriculture and sustainability. We have invested in our Showground, making it a year-round venue for events beyond just agricultural ones. Today digital marketing and online engagement have played a bigger role in how we connect with the public and so we are adapting as much as possible.

Charlotte Powell (centre) and the LAS team are passionate to support the rural community

After Covid, events and gatherings have been rebuilding, but we’ve seen an incredible return of visitors and exhibitors. We’ve focused on enhancing our digital presence to stay connected with our audience year-round. Rising costs in agriculture and event planning have presented challenges, but we remain committed to supporting the industry. We have carried out a review of who we are and what we do and updated our branding to connect our two businesses and bridge the gap between the Lincolnshire Showground and the work and Membership of the Lincolnshire Agricultural Society.

WHAT ARE YOUR CURRENT CHALLENGES?

We are very mindful of the cost of living pressures impacting visitor and exhibitor participation and encouraging Schools to engage with agriculture due to their strict curriculum. The drive to become more environmentally responsible means we are ensuring our events and the Showground remain as green as possible, putting new practices and procedures in place and leading the way as a sustainable event supplier. Every day we are inspired by farmers, food producers, and rural businesses who continue to innovate and adapt, ensuring the future of agriculture in Lincolnshire and beyond. We work with a number of key partners who regularly inspire us and we are very thankful to be able to work alongside them.

HOW IMPORTANT IS THE LINCOLNSHIRE SHOW?

We are thrilled to be celebrating the 140th Lincolnshire Show this year. This milestone event will feature special initiatives and activities to further promote our flagship event, which has been a staple of the county for well over a century. The Lincolnshire Show plays a vital role in raising funds to support the Lincolnshire Agricultural Society, helping us deliver our charitable objectives. The money raised enables us to provide educational opportunities, promote agricultural innovation, and inspire future generations about the importance of farming and the countryside. This long-term vision ensures that agriculture remains a key priority for years to come.

We are incredibly proud to be hosting the 140th Show for Lincolnshire and seeing the impact of our education programmes on young people’s understanding of farming Is what we love most along with bringing thousands of people together each year to celebrate Lincolnshire's rich, diverse and rural heritage. The Lincolnshire Agricultural Society is more than just an event organiser - we are a charity committed to securing the future of food, farming, and rural communities. We welcome everyone who shares our passion to get involved, whether as a visitor, exhibitor, volunteer, or supporter.

WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS FOR THE FUTURE AND HOW WILL YOU ADAPT?

Our priorities are to ensure the Lincolnshire show continues to be a must attend event for all generations and to continue to strengthen and develop our education and community programmes.

We also want to grow our venue hire and events offering, ensuring the Lincolnshire Showground is used all year round. We will be investing in our site for our events and the Showground and expanding partnerships with local schools and businesses whilst enhancing our digital outreach to engage new audiences.

It's Important that people know that by becoming a Member of the Lincolnshire Agricultural Society, you not only support our charitable initiatives but also gain access to exclusive benefits, event discounts, and entry to the Lincolnshire Show. Together, we can continue to educate, inspire, and champion the agricultural industry for generations to come.

For more information about the Lincolnshire Agricultural Society, becoming a member and all about this year’s Lincolnshire Show please visit www.lincolnshireshowground.co.uk

28th & 29th May 2025

ITS SHOWTIME!

We’re looking forward to exhibiting at our local county shows again this year, and very much hope you can join us. We’ll have lots of things to see on the Witham stands, including all our latest lubricants and paint products, and of course our good old fashioned Witham hospitality! Come along and see how our oils and paints are used in many applications, from Classic & Vintage to modern motorsport and a whole variety of working vehicles and machinery. Our friendly Witham team will be on hand to answer all your questions and offer expert advice and we look forward to catching up with you over the 3 events.

WHY ARE CALCIUM GREASES GAINING POPULARITY?

Calcium-based greases are gaining popularity as alternatives to lithium greases, but they are not entirely replacing them yet. The shift towards calcium greases is primarily due to environmental concerns, cost factors, and improved performance in specific applications. Here we explain why calcium greases are becoming more widely used….

LITHIUM SHORTAGES & RISING COSTS

Lithium is in high demand for battery production (especially for electric vehicles), which has driven up its cost and limited its availability for grease production. As a result, industries are looking for cost-effective alternatives with improved environmental credentials like calcium greases.

BETTER WATER RESISTANCE

Calcium anhydrous and other calcium-based greases offer superior water resistance compared to lithium greases. This makes them ideal for marine, heavy-duty, and outdoor applications such as farming, forestry and landscaping, where exposure to water is common as they offer excellent rust and corrosion protection, especially in saltwater and humid conditions.

Lithium grease, though offering some protection, is not as effective in highly corrosive environments and may wash out in extreme conditions.

HIGHER LOAD-CARRYING CAPACITY & IMPROVED THERMAL STABILITY

Calcium anhydrous greases generally have better extreme pressure (EP) and anti-wear properties, which means they can handle heavier loads and shocks in industrial and heavy-duty applications. Traditional calcium greases have a lower temperature limit, but anhydrous calcium grease can withstand higher temperatures, often reaching up to 150°C or more.

Lithium grease, especially lithium complex, can still handle higher temperatures (typically up to 180°C), but calcium anhydrous greases have improved thermal stability compared to standard calcium greases. Lithium grease performs well but may not handle sustained high-pressure conditions as effectively.

Lithium-ion high-voltage battery modules for electric and hybrid vehicles.

ARE THEY FULLY REPLACING LITHIUM GREASES?

Not completely, lithium complex greases are still widely used due to their versatility and cost-effectiveness. However, industries that require high water resistance, extreme pressure performance, or environmentally friendly lubricants are increasingly switching to calcium based options.

For agriculture, forestry and off-road applications, calciumbased greases, particularly calcium sulfonate complex greases are becoming a preferred choice over traditional lithium greases due to their superior performance in tough conditions.

WHY SWITCH TO CALCIUM GREASE?

Farm machinery and off-road vehicles often operate in wet, muddy, and humid environments. Calcium greases provide excellent water washout resistance, ensuring lubrication stays in place even in heavy rain or when exposed to irrigation. Agricultural and plant machinery faces high levels of dirt, fertiliser residues, and moisture, which can lead to rust and corrosion. Calcium greases form a strong barrier against corrosion, extending equipment lifespan.

Tractors, combines, excavators, and loaders experience heavy loads, shocks, and extreme pressures on joints, bearings, and pivot points. Calcium-based greases handle high mechanical stress better than lithium greases, reducing wear and downtime. Because calcium anhydrous grease resists washout, corrosion, and heavy loads, it often requires less frequent re-greasing, reducing downtime and maintenance costs.

Lithium grease may require more frequent applications in demanding environments.

WITHAM GREASE RANGE – WE HAVE JUST WHAT YOU NEED

At Witham Group we are committed to offering the latest range of high-quality greases suitable for all types of machinery and industries. Our products are designed to withstand the demanding conditions and as well as offering a wide range of traditional and specialist greases, our Calcium Grease is proving itself as a high performer, helping customers switch to less impact products with extremely beneficial water repellent and performance qualities at no extra cost.

Qualube Multi-Purpose EP2 Calcium Grease is an anhydrous calcium thickened lubricating grease based on a mineral oil and does not sacrifice on performance. The grease contains antioxidants, corrosion inhibitors and EP/AW additives. The thickener, together with the special base oil blend, makes the product suitable for the lubrication of medium loaded bearings and in wet and corrosive environments. It has excellent adhesion and water resistance and as a multi-purpose grease can be used in both industrial and automotive applications. The grease is suitable for a wide range of plain and rolling bearings and is ideal for lubricating slide, ball, and roller bearings, as well as universal joints and chassis components in wet and challenging environments.

For more information about our grease range or if you would like to test our Calcium Grease, please contact us.

Calcium extraction has less environmental impact than lithium mining

Qualube Multi-Purpose EP2 Calcium Grease is available in a range of sizes

SPRINGTIME MAINTENANCE: FOR MOWERS, CHAINSAWS, AND HEDGE TRIMMERS

As spring arrives, so does the annual call to action for groundskeepers, landscapers, land and homeowners to bring out their mowers, chainsaws, and hedge trimmers. After months of winter storage, these machines require careful attention to ensure they run smoothly throughout the busy cutting season. One crucial aspect of springtime maintenance is using the right lubricants to protect and extend the life of your equipment.

PREPARING YOUR EQUIPMENT FOR SPRING

Over the colder months, machinery often sits idle, leading to potential issues such as dried-out seals, moisture buildup, and fuel degradation. Before tackling overgrown lawns, unruly hedges, and untamed trees, it's essential to inspect and service your tools properly. Key maintenance tasks include:

ʆ Checking and changing engine oil

ʆ Lubricating moving parts

ʆ Inspecting fuel systems

ʆ Sharpening blades and chains

ʆ Cleaning air filters

CHOOSING THE RIGHT LUBRICANTS

Selecting the correct lubricants for your outdoor power equipment is essential for ensuring longevity, reducing wear, and maintaining efficiency. Here’s what you need to know.

ENGINE OILS THE UNSUNG HEROES

Your lawnmower works hard — don’t let it down with old or low engine oil! Just like a car, your mower’s engine needs clean oil to run smoothly, stay cool, and last longer.

Why Lawn Mower Engine Oil Matters:

ʆ Lubricates moving parts

ʆ Prevents overheating

ʆ Reduces wear and tear

ʆ Boosts performance and lifespan

Neglect the oil, and your mower could frustratingly seize up when you need it most. So, check your oil regularly and change it as recommended — usually once a season or after 25–50 hours of use.

Witham Group has all the right quality engine lubricants for lawn mowers such as SAE 30 or 10W-30 engine oils, ideal for four-stroke engines, providing excellent lubrication and protection against deposits.

A little maintenance equals a lot more mowing without the headaches.

DON'T SKIP ON THE CHAIN OIL

If you're using a chainsaw, chain oil isn't optional — it's essential.

Proper lubrication:

ʆ Keeps the chain running smoothly and safety

ʆ Prevents overheating and burn out issues

ʆ Reduces wear and tear

ʆ Extends the life of your saw (and your wallet)

Running your chainsaw without oil is like driving a car with no engine oil — you're headed for trouble. So before you start it up, check your bar & chain oil. A little now saves a lot later. See our Witham’s Qualube range of the latest recommended chain oils with biodegradable options.

REGULAR MAINTENANCE FOR PEAK PERFORMANCE

Once lubricants are applied, it’s vital to maintain a regular servicing schedule. Cleaning and reapplying lubrication throughout the season ensures your equipment continues to operate at peak efficiency. Avoiding neglected maintenance not only extends the life of your machines but also reduces costly downtime and repairs.

KEEP YOUR GARDEN & PROFESSIONAL TOOLS IN TOP SHAPE!

Rusting doesn't stop— and neither should your tool maintenance. Whether it's trimmers, hedge cutters, chainsaws, strimmers, or lawn mowers, a little care goes a long way.

Top Tips to Prevent Rust & Keep Tools Running Smooth:

ʆ Clean off grass, sap, and dirt after every use

ʆ Dry thoroughly – moisture is rust’s best friend

ʆ Oil moving parts and blades regularly using long lasting quality lubricants

ʆ Store in a dry, sheltered space

ʆ Sharpen blades when needed – a clean cut is a happy cut

Now is the season to rejuvenate landscapes, and wellmaintained equipment makes the task easier and more efficient. By using the correct lubricants for mowers, chainsaws, and hedge trimmers, you ensure optimal performance, reduced wear, and a longer lifespan for your tools. Investing in high-quality engine oils, greases, and chain oils will keep your machines running smoothly all season long.

However large or small your outdoor challenges are, we have all the products you need in stock so, contact us today and we will be happy to help for the months ahead.

STAYING ON TRAC!

HOW BLACKTRAC IS POWERING THE COMPACT TRACTOR MARKET

Blacktrac Ltd is a family-run business based in Wellingborough, Northamptonshire, specialising in the supply of new and quality used compact tractors, implements such as roller mowers and wood chippers, as well as dozens of other useful attachments, plant machinery, and ground care equipment. Jake Blackman – owner and founder of Blacktrac, kindly tells us more about his business and how his interest in machinery has led to a successful, growing enterprise, that’s in a strong position to stay right on track during this current, uncertain climate...

"Being a farmer’s son, I had an interest in machinery from a young age and I decided not to join the family farming business (leaving that to my two brothers!) and strike out on my own. I started my own landscaping business and invested in my own machinery over the years. This gradually evolved into buying and selling machinery and I closed my landscaping business to concentrate on machinery in 2009 when Blacktrac was formed.

Over the past 15 years we have grown from selling second hand machinery to becoming main dealers for a large variety of compact tractors, utility vehicles and implements -Solis and Honda being two of them. We are the UK’s largest Solis dealer, selling over 200 units last year."

As main dealers for Solis tractors and Honda ATVs, Blacktrac offers a comprehensive range of tractors from 20HP to 90HP, as well as a variety of utility vehicles. They also stock equipment from leading manufacturers such as Kubota, Iseki, New Holland, Yanmar, Massey Ferguson, Kioti, and John Deere. Their inventory includes a wide selection of implements, including flail mowers, rotovators, toppers, harrows, snow ploughs, and winter gritting equipment.

Blacktrac emphasises safety compliance, ensuring that all compact tractors, mini diggers, and machinery items are fitted with PTO safety guards where required. They provide thorough instruction on the operation of any tractor or machinery sold and offer warranties as standard on their

entire compact tractor range. The company prioritises selling reputable brands from leading manufacturers, focusing on new or lightly used quality branded compact tractors and being based near the A14 in Wellingborough easily offers reliable and quick deliveries using their own fleet of transport.

"My proudest moment has been two of my sons deciding to join the family business (my wife Catherine also works behind the scenes and helps with the administration of the company). Joe my eldest son, heads up the sales side of the business and also actively buys quality used tractors, whilst my youngest son Oscar heads up the workshop.

We moved into larger premises in Wellingborough, Northamptonshire in 2020 during the Covid pandemic which, although was a risk at the time, has certainly paid off. We have a showroom for customers to visit showcasing our products and a large storage warehouse. We have also invested in a purpose built workshop allowing our mechanics to work on a wide variety of machinery and continually reinvest in our vehicles to ensure our fleet is modern and reliable with fully equipped service vans on the road to provide on-site servicing or repairs.

We deliver tractors and UTVs nationwide to a wide range of customers, including small holders, farms, equestrian centres, sports clubs and country parks.

We pride ourselves in our professional and reliable customer service and are always looking for ways to build on our strengths and provide quality and innovative products for our customer base.

Obviously the economic forecasts for the near future are currently a little unsettling which is a concern for all businesses, big or small. We are in a strong position to cope with the uncertainty during the current climate.

We have worked with Witham for the past ten years, buying all our bulk oil requirements for the workshop and now have our own labelled oil supplied with service kits for the Solis tractors and UTVs. We enjoy seeing Jack, from Witham when he visits and the customer service that he and the Witham team provide is always excellent."

For more information about Blacktrac Ltd – please visit: www.blacktrac-compact-tractors.co.uk

SPRING INTO ACTION

ESSENTIAL LUBRICANTS FOR CLASSIC CARS

As of December 15, 2023, the UK's Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) records indicate that there are 338,697 cars over 40 years old still owned by registered keepers. Of these, approximately 12% (41,217 vehicles) have a Statutory Off Road Notification (SORN), meaning they are not currently being driven on public roads. This leaves around 297,480 classic cars actively on the road.

As the days grow longer and sunnier, drier weather hopefully appears, classic car owners whatever their type, begin the exciting task of preparing their cherished vehicles for the open road. After months of storage, it’s crucial to perform a thorough maintenance check, ensuring the right lubricants are in place to keep these vintage machines running smoothly throughout spring and summer.

Witham Group’s Qualube Classic range is specifically designed to meet the needs of historic vehicles, or young timers, providing the ideal protection and performance for older engines and components.

Among the classic cars still in use, the most prevalent and popular models include:

WHY CLASSIC CARS NEED SPECIAL LUBRICANTS

Classic and vintage vehicles differ from modern cars in their engine designs, materials, and tolerances. Many were built before today’s advanced synthetic lubricants and require oils with specific properties to maintain optimal performance and prevent wear. Using the wrong lubricant can lead to excessive engine wear, oil leaks, and poor performance.

Our Qualube Classic lubricants are blended to protect these older engines, offering the correct viscosity and additive technology to suit classic motoring needs.

ENGINE OILS

As the heart of your classic, choosing the right engine oil is vital. Unlike modern vehicles that use thin synthetic oils, classic cars typically require:

QUALUBE CLASSIC 20W-50: A premium multi-grade mineral oil formulated for classic engines, ensuring superior protection and high zinc (ZDDP) content for camshaft and tappet wear prevention.

QUALUBE CLASSIC SAE 30 & SAE 40: Ideal for vintage cars requiring monograde oils, offering the correct viscosity and protective film for older engines.

QUALUBE CLASSIC 10W-40: A semi-synthetic option for those who need improved cold-start protection while maintaining classic compatibility.

GEAR OILS

Older gearboxes and differentials require heavier oils than modern vehicles. The key considerations include:

QUALUBE CLASSIC GL-4 80W-90: Ideal for classic manual transmissions, as it provides the right balance of lubrication without damaging brass synchros.

QUALUBE CLASSIC GL-5 85W-140: Suitable for differentials, offering superior protection against wear in hypoid gears.

BRAKE FLUIDS

Brake fluid designed to meet and exceed the stringent requirements of classic and vintage vehicle braking systems, so consider:

QUALUBE CLASSIC BRAKE FLUID DOT 4: Formulated with specific additives that prevent fluid oxidation, rust and the swelling of the piston seals used in many conventional brake systems.

GREASES

Classic cars rely on regular greasing to keep suspension components, wheel bearings, chassis and steering linkages in good working order. Consider:

QUALUBE LITHIUM GREASE: Ideal for wheel bearings and general chassis lubrication.

QUALUBE CALCIUM GREASE: Provides excellent water resistance for exposed components.

QUALUBE GRAPHITE GREASE: Perfect for leaf springs and sliding surfaces, reducing metal-to-metal friction.

PROLAN ANTI-SEIZE GREASE: Long lasting and biodegradable. It's an extremely effective protective lubricant that's non toxic & based on sheep’s lanolin.

COOLANTS & ANTI-FREEZE

Many classic vehicles originally used simple water-based cooling systems, but today’s coolants provide improved corrosion protection. Witham Group’s Coolants for Classic engines offers:

QUALUBE BLUE ANTIFREEZE: Nitrite-free, phosphate-free & silicate-free formulation designed for classic engines.

TO VIEW ALL OUR CLASSIC AND VINTAGE PRODUCTS

BEFORE HITTING THE ROAD, MAKE SURE YOU:

ʆ Change the engine oil and filter using the appropriate classic engine oil.

ʆ Check and top up gear and differential oils.

ʆ Grease suspension, steering components & wheels.

ʆ Inspect coolant levels and flush the system if necessary.

Proper lubrication is the lifeblood of any classic car, ensuring longevity, reliability and a smooth driving experience. Witham Group’s Qualube Classic range is specifically designed to cater to the needs of vintage vehicles, offering the perfect blend of tradition and advanced protection. By choosing the right engine and gear oils, greases and additives, classic car owners can enjoy their vintage rides throughout the spring and summer with confidence.

With vehicle cleaning, restoration and rust prevention products, all available to help fire up those engines, polish the chrome and get ready to hit the road in style, try Qualube Classic style from Witham Group!

FROM WINTER-WORN TO SUMMER-READY

REVITALISE YOUR WOODWORK

Don't let weathered fences, sheds, and flaky garden furniture spoil your spring and summer appearance. Now is the perfect time to protect and transform your outdoor spaces. Witham Group's range of high-quality wood treatments and paints will not only enhance the natural beauty of your wood but also shield it from the elements, ensuring its preserved for more seasons to come.

Whilst we have our own popular range of Woco Wood Treatments and paints, we also many stock well-known brands such as Ronseal, Sadolin, Osmo and many more to give our customers the best choice available – Here’s just a snapshot of what you can order from us!

WOCO BARN PAINT

Breathe new life into your home, business, farm or outdoor space with our best selling Woco Barn Paint range. Recently upgraded with a new, improved formula that provides even better coverage and a longer lasting adhesion, this exceptional, water-based formula delivers outstanding protection and a stunning finish to a wide range of surfaces.

Not just for barns, our popular Woco Barn Paint is perfect for a wide range of surfaces, including cladding, gates, fences, barns, stables, outbuildings, sheds, wooden garden furniture, and more.

Our water-based formula is safer for people, animals, and the environment than traditional oil based paints and is easy to apply, with a brush, roller or spray.

The range offers a wide choice of 14 coastal-inspired colours from our Norfolk and Suffolk heartlands, including our new Orwell Brown colour, to create the perfect look.

SADOLIN QUICK DRY WOOD STAIN

Offers 6-year protection from flaking, peeling and blistering for exterior and is a fast-drying, durable woodstain for all exterior timber excluding decking, joinery, fences, cladding, and sheds. Complete your job in a day! Rainproof in 20 minutes with semi-gloss finish.

SANDTEX MULTI SURFACE SATIN PAINT

This versatile, self-priming, and quick-drying exterior paint offers 10 years of durable, mouldresistant protection with a flexible, low-VOC formula and a soft, low-shine finish. For use on wood, weathered PVC-u, brick, concrete, stone, aluminium and non-ferrous metal.

SADOLIN CLASSIC WOODSTAIN

This highly versatile wood stain provides deep penetrating protection for a wide range of exterior and interior wood applications, including decking, fencing, cladding, and serves as an ideal basecoat for new windows and doors

RONSEAL DECK PAINT

Ronseal Deck Paint revitalises tired decking with a durable, weather-resistant, and quick-drying opaque finish, smoothing rough surfaces, filling cracks, and providing long-lasting colour and protection for both softwood and hardwood.

RONSEAL FENCE LIFE PLUS

This ultra-durable treatment shields against the harshest elements – rain, frost, snow, and relentless sun – preventing greying for up to five years. Its versatile formula bonds seamlessly to both rough sawn and smooth planed timber, ensuring your outdoor structures remain beautiful and robust. Available in classic Dark Oak and Medium Oak.

WOCO WATER BASED WOOD PRESERVER

A quick-drying, low-odour, water-based wood treatment used as a preparatory first step for wood restoration and decoration, effectively treating wet rot, dry rot, and wood-boring insects, and is compatible with staining primer and topcoats for both interior and exterior use.

OSMO UV PROTECTION OIL EXTRA

This advanced wood treatment provides exceptional, long-lasting protection by resisting water and dirt, preventing mould, algae, and fungal growth, maintaining a transparent finish, and delaying wood greying, all while eliminating the need for sanding during top-up applications.

WITHAM WOCO TIMBERLAST

This high-quality product is perfect for protecting wooden surfaces from water, UV rays, and surface mould. Available in various colours, it can be applied to fences, decking, and garden furniture to enhance their natural beauty and provide long-lasting protection.

CREOCOTE

A user-friendly, deeply penetrating, oil-based wood treatment in a nut brown shade, designed to protect and enhance rough exterior timbers like sheds and fences with excellent water repellency, while offering a safer alternative to traditional creosote.

OSMO DECK OIL

This breathable, microporous wood treatment preserves natural wood aesthetics, offers safe, water and dirt-resistant protection, prevents cracking and peeling, and simplifies maintenance with no sanding required for top-ups.

FLUID POWER INNOVATION

HOW THE NATIONAL FLUID POWER CENTRE KEEPS INDUSTRY IN MOTION

The National Fluid Power Centre (NFPC) is a UK-based training and development centre specialising in hydraulics, pneumatics, and electro-mechanical control systems. It provides industry-focused training for engineers, technicians, and companies involved in fluid power, motion control, and automation. John Savage is the Managing Director of the NFPC, based in Worksop and with a career spanning over 50 years and under his leadership, the NFPC has evolved into a premier training facility specialising in hydraulics, pneumatics, and integrated systems engineering. Celebrating their 25 year anniversary, we were delighted to recently catch up with John to find out how it all began…

WHAT’S THE HISTORY OF THE BUSINESS– HOW DID IT GET STARTED?

The National Fluid Power Centre has been open for business for 25 years but the provision of a Training Centre delivering Fluid Power related courses started in 1974 as part of the Mining Engineering Department at North Notts College and was initially called the North Notts Fluid Power Centre.

As an apprentice fitter for the National Coal Board (NCB) I progressed to become a Mining Mechanical Engineer. In 1979, recognizing the decline of the mining industry, we established the North Notts Fluid Power Centre, laying the foundation for what would become the NFPC.

WHAT IS FLUID POWER?

Fluid Power is the use of fluids under pressure to generate, control, and transmit power and is subdivided into:

ʆ Hydraulics using a liquid such as oil or water.

ʆ Pneumatics using a gas such as air or other gases.

Hydraulic principles make up parts of our everyday life, from monitoring the weather to moving heavy objects.

Fluid power is used in industries such as Aerospace, Automotive, Agricultural, Construction, Entertainment, Robotics, Mining, Material Handling, and Packaging, to name a few.

HOW HAS BUSINESS GROWN, DEVELOPED AND CHANGED OVER THE YEARS?

In the last 20 years the NFPC Business has grown beyond belief. We now support the Learning and Developments of over 300 Major National and International Companies across 27 Sectors of UK Industry. We are supported by an Industry Advisory Body of over 60 Companies of which The Witham Group is one.

WHAT SERVICES TO YOU OFFER?

Today, we deliver an extensive range and levels of very practically biased training courses involving Mobile and Industrial Hydraulics, Electro-Hydraulics, ElectroPneumatics, Control, Sensor Technology, Maintenance and Troubleshooting.

Our aim is to develop a safer and more effective workforce that better understand FLUID POWER transmission systems and realise the importance of Energy Conservation, whilst accelerating the importance of “Sustainability." We are proud that the NFPC is widely recognized for its state-of-the-art training facilities, expert instructors, and strong connections with leading manufacturers and industry bodies. It plays a key role in ensuring that businesses stay up to date with the latest advancements in fluid power technology.

HOW MANY PEOPLE WORK FOR YOU?

We currently employ 15 staff of which 10 are System and Training Engineers from UK Industry with a vast knowledge and experience involving the management and maintenance of Fluid Power Systems and Control.

We are also the only “CETOP Certified Education Centre” in the UK offering competence based qualifications involving Mobile and Industrial Hydraulics, Pneumatics and Associated Electronics and Control at Levels 1, 2 and 3.

WHO ARE YOUR CUSTOMERS?

Our customers range from end users to OEMs and we provide our training courses and qualifications to such organisations as RWE, Vestas and ORSTED Offshore Wind Turbines, Rolls Royce, Network Rail, TATA Steel, ICL Boulby, Redpath Mining, Canal River Trust, MBDA Military Division and many more.

WHAT SETS YOU APART FROM YOUR COMPETITORS

We do not have any major competitors. We support Staff at every level from colleges and universities involved in education where fluid power appears in the curriculum.

No other centre in the world has the equipment base to match the NFPC and all operating on Witham Oil! The practical training offered here together with the knowledge and experience of the Training Engineers sets us apart from anywhere else.

WHAT IS YOUR COMPANY ETHOS?

To meet and exceed the expectations of our interested parties at all times. The NFPC is ISO 9001:2015 Approved by NQA and Clause 4.2 is our priority “Understanding the needs and expectations of our clients."

HOW HAS THE LAST FEW YEARS OR SO IMPACTED YOUR BUSINESS?

Since the COVID pandemic, the business here at the NFPC and demand for our services has grown each year and 2025 is no exception with new companies and high levels of repeat business month on month. As technology has advanced towards a greater application of Electronics, Control, Sensor Technology and Data Management, the knowledge and skills required by todays Engineers has resulted in the NFPC Strategic Direction changing towards Integrated Fluid Power Systems and as the UK’s Leading Centre , we have had to adapt to the changes required by our many Clients.

WHAT ARE YOUR BIGGEST CHALLENGES AT THE MOMENT?

We are looking to increase our technical training Staff and increase the physical size of the NFPC.

A typical busy week with over 40 candidates on courses from all over the UK

HOW ARE YOU ADAPTING FOR THE YEARS AHEAD?

We have kept up to date with advances in both technology and changing customers’ needs and with the continued support of our Industry Advisory Body and their mentorship we have adapted and will continue to do so. As long as we maintain our high standards and effective training courses that improve the performance and productivity of the UK workforce we will remain successful and cost effective. We are not a rigid organisation, we will continue to work with our customers and modify our services to meet their needs at all times.

WHEN AND WHY DID YOU START WORKING WITH WITHAM GROUP?

The start of our journey and that of building a close working relationship with Geoff Bottom and the team at Witham Oils was in the early 80s, as we began to deliver Hydraulic Training Courses on Agricultural Machines and groups in the Lincolnshire and Norfolk Areas. We also had the pleasure of exhibiting at the Lincolnshire and LAMMA Annual Shows courtesy of Witham Oils. For the last 30 plus years, the Witham Group have supplied the NFPC with the ISO 32 VG Hydraulic Oil and from time to time, we use your oil analysis services.

Our relationship with the all the Team at Witham Group is more than purchasing products, it’s the collaboration and mentorship and in the past, we have delivered a number of Stage 1 Hydraulic Courses at Outer Circle Rd for your customers – We should discuss this and possibly resurrect this service!? You are an outstanding Customer Service orientated Company and we wouldn’t change a thing in our working relationship.

We have run courses for the Electrical Engineer at Tottenham Football Ground, as their pitch can be moved hydraulically

WHAT NEW PROJECTS OR STRATEGIES ARE YOU WORKING ON?

We are currently investing further in more hands on training rigs and integrating more electronic and control into our range of courses as AI continually advances the process of systems management.

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR PROUDEST MOMENT?

For me personally, it has to be being awarded the Joseph Bramah Medal in 2015 by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers for my service to Fluid Power Education and establishing the National Centre. I am also really proud that the NFPC is celebrating 25 years of success this year.

IF YOU COULD DO IT ALL AGAIN, WHAT WOULD YOU DO DIFFERENTLY?

Nothing, I have now been involved in the journey since 1974 (50 Years) and I still remain ambitious to further improve the services of the NFPC. We listen to our customers and we never fail to meet their needs.

A proud moment - John’s 50 years’ service award presented by Mr Jason Austin a member of the

NFPC Board of Directors

MOTORSPORT

EXCITING TEAM LINE UP FOR 2025 SEASON

Witham Motorsport is thrilled to be supporting a wide range of British Motorsport championships in 2025. From the thrilling speed of the British Touring Car Championship (BTCC) to the precision of the Pirelli Welsh Rally Championship, we are proud to support an incredible variety of motorsport teams and individuals.

Richard Scarbrough, Sales Director at Witham Group, commented: “This year, Witham Motorsport is thrilled

to be supporting exceptional motorsport competitors. We're proud to support a diverse range of championships and teams, and we can't wait to see what exciting achievements the 2025 season brings.”

Once again, we are proud to be the official lubricant provider for the Protyre Circuit Rally Championship, the Protyre Motorsport UK Asphalt Rally Championship and the Pirelli Welsh Rally Championship.

FOR 2025, WITHAM MOTORSPORT ARE SUPPORTING 16 UK CHAMPIONSHIPS AND OVER 20 TEAMS:

▶ BRITISH TOURING CAR CHAMPIONSHIP (Speedworks & Toyota Gazoo Racing UK)

▶ PIRELLI WELSH RALLY CHAMPIONSHIP (Matthew Hirst, Declan Dear, EDSL Sport)

▶ PROTYRE MOTORSPORT UK ASPHALT RALLY CHAMPIONSHIP (EDSL Sport, Mark Kelly)

▶ BRITISH RALLY CHAMPIONSHIP (Matthew Hirst, Declan Dear, Roskell Motorsport)

▶ PROTYRE CIRCUIT RALLY CHAMPIONSHIP (John Griffiths)

▶ THE BRITISH HISTORIC RALLY CHAMPIONSHIP (Lepley Motorsport)

▶ 5 NATIONS BRITISH RALLYCROSS (Ovenden Motorsport)

▶ BTRDA CLUBMANS RALLYCROSS CHAMPIONSHIP (Todd Crooks Motorsport)

▶ MINI CHALLENGE UK (Tom Ovenden)

▶ NATIONAL KART RACING CHAMPIONSHIP (Ollie Rowley, George Kay)

▶ THE OFFSHORE CIRCUIT RACING DRIVERS ASSOCIATION CHAMPIONSHIP (Team Enforcer 922 Powerboat)

▶ MASTERS HISTORIC RACE EVENTS (Calum Lockie)

▶ BRITISH TRUCK RACING CHAMPIONSHIP (JP Racing)

▶ GP ORIGINALS SERIES & CLASSIC RACING MOTORCYCLE CLUB (RAF Classic Race Team)

▶ CLASSIC TT, ISLE OF MAN (RAF Classic Race Team – Andy Green)

▶ MX5 CLUBMAN CHAMPIONSHIP (Bromley Motorsport)

▶ TEGIWA TYPE R TROPHY (Joe Dalgarno)

MATTHEW HIRST RACING & DECLAN DEAR: Pirelli Welsh Rally Championship & British Rally Championship

SPEEDWORKS MOTORSPORT / TOYOTA GAZOO RACING UK TEAM: British Touring Car Championship

ROSKELL MOTORSPORT: Irish Rally Championships & various other events

OR

JOE DALGARNO: Tegiwa Type R Trophy

TODD CROOKS MOTORSPORT: BTRDA Clubman Rallycross Championship

OLLIE ROWLEY -

MOTORSPORT: National Kart Racing Championship

JOHN GRIFFITHS & EMMA MORRISON: Protyre Circuit Rally Championship

JASON LEPLEY MOTORSPORT: The British Historic Rally Championship

TEAM ENFORCER 922 POWERBOAT TEAM: The Offshore Circuit Racing Drivers Association Championship

OVENDEN MOTORSPORT: 5 Nations British Rallycross

CALUM LOCKIE: Masters Historic racing

TOM OVENDEN: Mini Challenge UK

MOTORSPORT

WITHAM MOTORSPORT LUBRICATES SPEEDWORKS CHAMPIONSHIP AMBITIONS IN BTCC

We are thrilled to continue our successful partnership with BTCC powerhouse Speedworks Motorsport for the 2025 season. Speedworks, featuring a new black livery on its four TOYOTA GAZOO Racing UK cars, will again use Witham Motorsport's lubricants, paints, coatings, and cleaning solutions. This support is vital for the reliability of their Britishbuilt Corolla race cars.

Entering its fourteenth BTCC season, the Speedworksengineered Corolla has achieved 47 podiums, including 17 wins, with five in 2024 alone. Speedworks has high expectations for 2025, fielding a strong driver line-up: threetime champion Gordon Shedden (fifth on the all-time BTCC winners list), reigning Independents’ Trophy champion Árón Taylor-Smith, Ronan Pearson, and James Dorlin.

The decade-long partnership between Witham Motorsport and Speedworks Motorsport was recently celebrated.

Christian Dick, Speedworks' Team Principal, noted the evolution from an oil supply deal to a full technical partnership, emphasizing Witham's crucial role in their cars' performance. The 30-race BTCC season started at Donington Park on April 26th and all events will be broadcast live on ITV.

HIRST WINS WELSH RALLY CHAMPIONSHIP FOR RECORD BREAKING FOURTH TIME!

Congratulations to Matthew Hirst who won the Pirelli Welsh Rally Championship title for a recordbreaking fourth year in a row in November. Codriven by Declan Dear, the Doncaster driver finished the Forest of Dean event almost two minutes ahead of his nearest championship rival, after a sublime performance in his Delta Salvage/Witham Motorsport Škoda Fabia R5.

This is a fantastic result for the team – and Richard Scarbrough was honoured to present them an award at the Pirelli Welsh Rally Championship Awards ceremony recently.

We are very excited to be supporting Matthew & Declan again this season, which started in April.

CIRCUIT RALLY CHAMPIONSHIP WRAP-UP!

We're absolutely thrilled to celebrate the fantastic secondplace finish of our team, John Griffiths and Emma Morrison Rally Co-driver, in the Protyre Circuit Rally Championship 2024/25! Their dedication and skill, piloting the JD Rallysportprepared Škoda Fabia R5, have been a joy to watch.

Congratulations also to champions Michael Igoe & Kirsty Riddick and third-place finishers Chris West & Keith Hounslow on a hard-fought season.

Thank you to everyone who made the championship such a success. We have been proud to support this championship and teams again this year.

PROTYRE ASPHALT RALLY CHAMPIONSHIP

We are proud to support the Protyre Asphalt Rally Championship again this year. The season kicked off at the East Ridings Stages Rally where our team, Neil Roskell and Dai Roberts recovered from sliding up a bank on the opening stage to record their 14th Protyre Asphalt Rally Championship podium finish in just four years – and get their challenge for the 2025 title off to a flying start.

We recently had the pleasure of attending the Protyre Asphalt Rally Championship awards night where we were delighted to present the award for 2nd place to Neil Roskell and Dai Roberts, who demonstrated exceptional skill and perseverance throughout the 2024 season.

MOTORSPORT

JOE DALGARNO IS HUNGRY FOR SUCCESS IN THE TEGIWA TYPE R TROPHY!

Witham Motorsport is thrilled to continue its support for Joe Dalgarno in the fiercely competitive Tegiwa Type R Trophy. This single-make series within the 750 Motor Club boasts full grids and wheel-to-wheel action at Britain's premier circuits. With 10 of the 14 races live-streamed, the Type R Trophy guarantees maximum exposure for Joe and the team. Joe is setting his sights high for the 2025 season, aiming for a top-three finish. "I've got unfinished business in this series. Last year's performance wasn't where I wanted to be, and that's fuelling my drive to succeed. We're working hard behind the scenes to make 2025 our best season yet, and I'm determined to get back on that top step of the podium."

SUPPORT FOR OVENDEN MOTORSPORT'S RALLYCROSS CHARGE AT LYDDEN HILL

We recently supported Ovenden Motorsport at the thrilling 5 Nations British Rallycross Championship event held at Lydden Hill Race Circuit over the Easter weekend. Supercar competitor Tristen Ovenden showcased his skills in the championship, while Will Ovenden, the reigning Swift Sport Champion, continued his racing journey in the exciting new Motorsport UK Cross Car Championship in his Witham Motorsport branded cross car.

A PIT STOP AT SOHAM FROM OVENDEN MOTORSPORT

Back in December, our Soham Depot welcomed Tristan and Tom Ovenden from Ovenden Motorsport. The team dropped by to thank us for our ongoing support and collect some Woco floor paint to keep their workshop in top condition. We're proud to support their teams and wish them the best of luck in the remainder of the 2025 season!

PROUD TO SUPPORT THE MIGHTY MINIS SERIES

We are looking forward to supporting our customer James Jenkins in the Mighty Mini Racing Series this year. Mighty Minis Racing, celebrating its 30th year, offers affordable classic Mini racing and has helped many drivers enter the sport. For 2025, they've revamped their technical regulations, merging two classes into one competitive class. This is expected to attract new drivers and make for an exciting season with live-streamed races.

James is a regular contributor to the Mini Cooper Register magazine and will share his motorsport journey with regular updates in the Oily Rag newsletter.

LEPLEY MOTORSPORT PREPARES FOR BRITISH HISTORIC RALLY CHAMPIONSHIP

We're excited to see James Lepley of Lepley Motorsport using our products for the winter rebuild of his rally car.

He's getting ready for the upcoming British Historic Rally Championship season, and we're proud to be supporting his efforts. We wish James and his team a successful season!

British Manufacturers of Quality Lubricants and Paints since 1921

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