Landscape and Amenity http://landscapeandamenity.com Landscape and Amenity product news. English <![CDATA[MAINTENANCE ON A BROAD SCALE]]>
The banks are basically an earth flood barrier next to tidal rivers consisting in the main of soft soil, clays and peat and the aim is to minimise the risk of banks breaching when there is a major flood event and they overtop. This is achieved through providing a 2m+ wide crest and rear slope with a gradient of c.1 in 3.The project area is sub-divided into 40 discreet compartments of varying lengths. Improvement works are undertaken on 3-4 compartments per year over the first 10 years of the project. Improved banks are seeded at the end of the construction season; usually September. It is then important to cut the banks 2-3 times the following year to control weeds and promote the tillering of the grass. All banks in the project area are cut at least once from the end of March to October.

Jeremy Halls Principal Consultant, Ecology & Environmental Management for Halcrow Group Ltd who are responsible for the grass cutting programme commented “some sites are only cut once whilst others may receive up to three cuts. This predominantly consists of cutting the grass on the crest and sides of the flood-bank. If there are problems with weeds or scrub developing on the area between the bank and the dyke then this will also be cut. The vegetation is cut in order to control weeds and encourage the growth of healthy grass which, in turn, promotes stability. When the embankments are overtopped, long grass can result in root structure deterioration and instability increasing erosion to parts of the embankment which can result in widespread flooding. With less vegetation on the bank it is also easier to spot leaks and other problems such as Rat or Rabbit holes during the annual condition surveys. Annual weeds equals bare ground and potential erosion in the winter flood season, so these need to be controlled. Cutting also has the added benefit of improving footpaths for the thousands of walkers who enjoy visiting this special area each year”

The mainstays of the grass cutting fleet on the project are two Reform Hydrostatic Metrac H7X Bank tractors supplied to Bam Nuttall by A J Scambler and working in tandem with a front mounted Muthing MUH200 shackle rotor flail and rear side-arm mounted McConnell PA3430 respectively. Prior to their arrival walk behind mowers had been employed.

Jeremy continued “the annual maintenance of vegetation will continue to be managed over the next ten years and where possible the embankments will be cut on the top and both slopes. In areas where weed growth is an issue the vegetation cut will be more comprehensive. Where it is likely that there will be nesting birds or known reptile populations then the timing and methods of cutting with be revised accordingly. The programme to increase crest width means that we are able to use the Reform Metrac H7X which is a critically safe machine. They provide a safe environment for the operator, are manoeuvrable and well-suited to working on the banks and on projects such as this and have made delivery of the annual maintenance programme so much more efficient and cost-effective”

Ed Scambler of A J Scambler commented “the Reform Metrac Bank Tractors are such versatile machines suited to the widest possible range of grounds maintenance tasks. We are certainly seeing an increase in demand based on their multi-functionality and lifetime cost benefits. The Broadland flood alleviation project is the perfect demonstration of the Metrac’s value for the maintenance of large areas of difficult terrain utilising the balanced weight distribution and crab steer function”

Simon Richard, the UK Agent for the Reform range concluded “the Metrac with various deck options offers the local Authority and professional contractor user the ideal combination to enable the operator to work safely at angles of up to 45 degrees”

The Reform Metrac H7X at a glance
Engine: 4 cylinders 70hp four stroke turbo diesel engine
Clutch: Single plate dry clutch with hydraulic central disengagement for power take-off drive with automatic soft start control.
Gearbox: Hydrostatic drive with mechanical 2 range gears and electro hydraulically 2 speed level switching, Inch pedal; hydrostatic control optional automotive or manual, electrically switchable.
Axle drive: Four wheel drive or 2 wheel drive switchable.
Axles: Steering drive axles with final drive at front and rear, front axle oscillating.
Differential locks: Pre-selectable, electro hydraulic operated differential locks front and rear with lamp indicators for current switching status on control panel.
Steering: Hydrostatic steering with Load-Sensing; four wheel steering electro-hydraulically, even during travel, switchable to front, rear and so called crab-steering; automatic synchronization of wheel position.
PTO: Power take-off switch able under load, front and rear 540 rpm, front rotating counter clockwise, rear rotating clockwise; electro hydraulic switchable with automatic soft start (Direction of rotation looking at the power take-off shaft end).2 indicators and headlights at front, brake, tail and indicator lights at rear. Fuel tank: Polyethylene tank with 85 l capacity.
Cab: Safety frame for the driver with roof, Panorama windscreen, right window, shaded screens, Parallelogram windscreen wiper, windscreen washing system, sun visor, 2 external mirrors, internal mirror, bottle holder, longitudinally and vertically adjustable deluxe seat with pelvis support. Optional: Comfort cabin with heater, additional cab ventilation, air-conditioning system.

*For more information or quotes please contact Simon Richard on the numbers shown or Ed Scambler on M: 07860 603935 or email:ed@scamblers.com

]]> Fri, 18 May 2012 00:00:00 +0100 <![CDATA[ADDING VALUE TO WORKING WITH SCHOOLS]]>
The factsheets are proving to be an invaluable resource for teachers and are also shared with parents and each school’s online community.
v Landscape Solutions has the technical capability and scientific knowledge base to produce teaching support material that provides added value to each of their school projects. Their team of expert landscapers, tree surgeons and plantsmen work with their in-house international environmentalist, ecological advisor and educational consultant to ensure that everything has scientific integrity.

The What To Look For factsheets highlight specific plants and birds each month that can be spotted within the school grounds and are written in a clear and easy to understand format to appeal to even the youngest of primary aged children.
]]> Fri, 18 May 2012 00:00:00 +0100 <![CDATA[TWOSE SALES ACE CALLS IT A DAY AFTER 49 YEARS AT THE TOP]]>
Richard, who was Twose’s area sales manager for the West, South West and Wales, joined the company in July 1963 as a 15-year old apprentice, playing a part in the development of a host of new machines from yard scrapers and buckrakes to hedge trimmers and flailheads.

In the early 1970s he moved from engineering to become the company’s service and demonstration manager and became a familiar figure to Twose customers all over Europe, where he looked after everything from ditchers in Sweden to turf conditioners in France. Richard’s extensive knowledge of Twose’s products and his experience in supporting customers both proved invaluable when he made the move into sales in 1979.

He said: “Successful sales is all about promoting good products and making sure customers get their machine set up correctly. If you do that the machine will perform well and the customer will come back to you in future.”

Over his 32-year tenure with Twose’s sales team he estimates he sold around 1,750 machines a year – topping the 55,000 mark by the time of his last deal!

Richard has seen a huge amount of change as Twose has evolved and grown over the past 49 years, but he feels the company is well-placed for the future.

“Twose has a great range of products and committed and enthusiastic people. I ‘m confident the company will continue to grow and win new customers.

“I’ve had a long and happy career and wish all the customers and colleagues I worked with every success for the future.”
]]> Fri, 18 May 2012 00:00:00 +0100 <![CDATA[KARCHER OFFERS CASHBACK ]]> Kärcher is repeating its highly successful £100 cashback incentive on new Kärcher HDS hot water pressure washers. 

For every HDS machine (excluding upright models) sold through a participating Kärcher dealer until June 30, 2012, Kärcher will reward the customer with a cheque for £100. On top of the £100 gift, HDS customers will receive automatic entry into a weekly draw to win an NT 70/2 professional multi-purpose vacuum worth over £500.

Draw winners will be announced on the Kärcher website every week.

For more information on the cashback offer, or to find out your local dealer, call 01295 752142 or visit www.karcher.co.uk

]]> Thu, 17 May 2012 00:00:00 +0100 <![CDATA[WHAT MAKES A GOOD PLAY SPACE – SIMPLY PLAY!]]> Timberplay have recently introduced a new play assessment resource which will be freely available from later this year. London was the venue for the pre- launch event of the comprehensive play value assessment tool – Simply Play. This process has been developed to support the full assessment of the play value within any given site, be it a designated play area or not. It is anticipated that this tool will become an invaluable free resource for those working within the play industry or considering enhancing any formal or informal play space.

Simply Play is the result of a two year Knowledge Transfer Partnership between Sheffield Hallam University and Timberplay. Beth Cooper, Creative Play Associate at Timberplay comments:-
“When looking as existing play assessment tools what struck me was that play value, arguably the most important factor in any play space, was often overlooked or totally omitted. Working alongside senior play academics at Sheffield Hallam University we have developed Simply Play which exclusively looks at Play Value, our hope is that this will become an invaluable resource to be used either in isolation or alongside complementary pre-existing assessment tools.”

The recent event canvassed opinions of key representatives from the play industry, including Playlink, Play England and Royal Parks. These delegates visited three contrasting sites within Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens in London and used Simply Play to assess each of these.

Simply Play will be launched later this year as an online, freely available tool. To register your interest please go to the Simply Play website, which is currently a holding page, at www.simplyplay.co.uk or email info@simplyplay.co.uk , or call Beth 0114 282 3747. 
]]> Thu, 17 May 2012 00:00:00 +0100 <![CDATA[ASPIRING ARCHES AND PERFECT PERGOLAS]]>
It’s the perfect stage to showcase the EXCLUSIVE Garden Structure Collection in its entirety- featuring arches, pergolas and obelisks – that have been developed with and are endorsed by the RHS themselves. The RHS’ dedication to advancing good gardening and horticulture has combined perfectly with the garden product design and manufacturing expertise of Harrod Horticultural to produce garden accent pieces that strike the ideal balance between decoration and functionality.

Discover the 3 classic shapes – The Roman, The Gothic and The Ogee – that are available in both arch and pergola forms, and find out just why they have a reputation for superior quality and for creating genuine sophisticated beauty. Long lasting powder coated matt black steel frameworks with 10 year guarantees, flush fitting and discreet connectors and a choice of assembly options are essential elements of these thoughtful designs. Linked multiple arches with steel bars, thick galvanised wire and practically indestructible gripple clips or a Pergola, what’s your choice? See the options on display for yourself and decide which one serves best for creating a breathtaking floral tunnel walkway that seamlessly brings parts of a garden together. Standing in and around them is the only way to appreciate their magnificence and presence!

Then there are the 3 majestic steel obelisks – Round, Square and Pyramid. Carrying all the hallmarks of classic Harrod Horticultural design and manufacturing, they are just the inspiration for gardeners that need attractive, practical yet maintenance free focal points that bring height and form to the garden.

But it’s not just looking good in the garden which forms the core of Harrod Horticultural’s 2012 Chelsea display. Their reputation for creating practical yet stylish products for growing vegetables means that a Decorative Steel Fruit Cage, the multi-level Manger Raised Planters and renowned wooden raised beds will all be fully planted up to show excellent examples of the perfect kitchen garden once more. 

Make your first RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2012 destination 24 Pavilion Way and discover for yourself how to adorn your garden with superior structures that really make the difference!
]]> Thu, 17 May 2012 00:00:00 +0100 <![CDATA[PLAYFAIR 2012 SEMINAR PROGRAM ANNOUNCED!]]> Association of Play Industries (API) is delighted to reveal the exciting line-up for Playfair 2012, featuring speakers on funding, health and most importantly play!
Building on the success of last year’s seminars, there will be a series of presentations along with Q&A sessions on various topics, including:

ENTRUST: What is the Landfill Communities Fund and how does it work?
Bidding for Success: how to write a great playground funding bid
Play On! Creating playgrounds through the Spacehive funding platform
Change4Life – how communities and local authorities can get involved
British Heart Foundation: Encouraging active play for all ages

Playfair is the UK’s largest trade event for all those involved in the selection, purchase, upkeep and replacement of children’s’ play equipment and safety surfacing, from local authority staff (children and youth services; parks and opens spaces teams), schools and parents who are active in the community, either as school governors or in residents associations to freelance play designers, parish councils and managers from the leisure and private sectors.
Held on the 19-20 June at Stoneleigh Park in Warwickshire, Playfair 2012 is free to attend. To register, visit the Playfair website: www.playfairuk.com
For further information contact Ray Baxter at Brintex on 020 7973 4695 or email: r.baxter@hgluk.com
]]> Thu, 17 May 2012 00:00:00 +0100 <![CDATA[AGRICULTURAL ENGINEERS FACE UP TO THE CHALLENGES OF THE 'PERFECT STORM' ]]> Agricultural engineers recently came together to debate the serious challenges we all face to meet and feed a future potential 50 per cent increase in population. Sir John Beddington the Government’s chief scientist who commissioned the Foresight Report has estimated the world has 20 years to deliver something in the order of 40% more food, 30% more fresh water and 50% more energy. 

For years many of the issues have repeatedly been analysed and articulated but this report is the first to integrate these and demonstrate the totality of the challenge. The Foresight Report and the importance of agricultural engineering introducing innovations to counteract the effect of the perfect storm was the theme of the Institution of Agricultural Engineers (IAgrE) annual Landwards Conference: “Weathering the Perfect Storm – who do you want in your lifeboat?”

Delegates listened to a series of presentations covering: 
• government research priorities 
• the role of soil and water management 
• should livestock have a place in the boat 
• the role of people 

In the afternoon delegates split into discussion groups to debate their response to the Foresight Report and decide which areas of expertise they would want in the lifeboat. Inspired by the morning speakers, delegates came up with some interesting and innovative ideas,” said Andy Newbold, President of IAgrE. 

The discussion groups fed back that all communities have part of the solution and agricultural engineers will need to work with others. Fragile soils form the basis for much of our food production. If correctly applied, engineering is fundamental to optimising productivity from the soil and avoiding soil loss and degradation, the effective collection and utilisation of water, achieving efficiency in the use of all the inputs for food production and in controlling emissions and minimising waste across the food chain. 

“If the engineering/manufacturing sectors are fundamental to solving the serious challenges faced we will need to get out of our silos and communicate to the consumer about the importance of agricultural engineering. We must think across the discliplines and effectively integrate all the relevant disciplines – biological, socio-economic and engineering in particular. We have work to do to improve the image of the sector as a career. Key skills need to be identified and the agricultural community will need to think long term. We also need to exploit technology to its full, there is an increasing use of smart technologies on the farm and even the potential for farmers to run their farms from smart phones. Agriculture and agricultural engineering are forward-looking sectors. If we are to meet the challenges of climate change and food security we must act now to address these issues,” concluded Andy . 

]]> Thu, 17 May 2012 00:00:00 +0100 <![CDATA[FIRMS FINDS ITSELF IN THE WINNERS’ ENCLOSURE]]> Glorious Goodwood, home to the famous racing festival, is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful racecourses in the world.
Lincolnshire firm County Turf have supplied the turf for the stunning winners’ enclosure. Ultra Soil Solutions in Hertfordshire specified the turf – County’s most popular grade, Greenscape - which was then laid in the enclosure by Goodwood’s ground staff ready for the new season. 

The cultivars used in this turf are taken from the top performing varieties in the STRI profile, not only is it extremely hard wearing, but it will retain its colour throughout the year. 

 “When choosing turf from our customers, we work hard to ensure they get the service and quality of product they need,” said Andy Church, Director or Ultra Solutions Ltd. “The winners’ enclosure at Goodwood races is the focal point of attention for spectators and television cameras alike.
“We were asked by Seamus Buckley, the Clerk of the Course to supply a hard wearing, quality turf that would withstand both the heavy use and scrutiny of the horse racing world. 

“In choosing County Turf in big roll format, we fulfilled the expectation of all concerned. A top quality turf, backed up by a first class service.” 
]]> Thu, 17 May 2012 00:00:00 +0100 <![CDATA[NEW CONTRACTOR EQUIPMENT AVAILABLE ONLINE FROM SIS ]]>
Everything a contractor requires to carry out the treatment of, for example, Japanese Knotweed is now availble in one dedicated contractor pack. This includes the stem injection tool, standard and short needles, the herbicide canister, calibration phial and allen key, safety holster pack and storage box and service kit.

Another popular product introduction has been Stem Injection Systems' new chemical storage safes which are designed for the safe storage and transportation of herbicides. A choice of safe sizes from 15 litre to 150 litre for vehicles and up to 1500 litre for static storage, making them ideal for contractors going out on site or needing on site storage.

Mobile safes are fully seam welded and leak proof with vapour seals, the safes have over centre catches which can include padlocks, have carry handles and display prominent labels which warn of their potentially hazardous chemical contents.
]]> Thu, 17 May 2012 00:00:00 +0100 <![CDATA[DOOSAN INFRACORE CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT ANNOUNCES NEW PRESIDENT FOR EUROPE, MIDDLE EAST AND AFRICA (EMEA)]]>
Announcing the change, Tony explained that, for personal reasons, Scott has decided to leave the company.

Noting the important contribution that Scott has made to the company, Tony commented: “I would like to thank Scott for his strong leadership and valued contributions to our company. Delivering on our promise to our dealers and customers to provide quality, value-added products and services that support their business success is at the core of what we do. In finding a successor, it was important to appoint someone who embodies this promise in the same way as Scott has done as EMEA President.
“I am therefore pleased to announce that Martin Knoetgen is assuming the position of President of Doosan Infracore Construction Equipment - EMEA, reporting to me, effective June 1.  Scott will remain on board as an advisor to assist with the transition through June 30.

“Martin Knoetgen has served as the Vice President of EMEA Operations for the past two years. With more than 15 years of general management and operations experience, Martin has a balanced leadership approach and a demonstrated ability to deliver on short-term goals while developing strategies and executing against the long-range plan.”

Prior to joining Doosan Infracore Construction Equipment, Martin Knoetgen served as the President and General Manager at Dalphi Metal, a subsidiary of TRW Automotive Holdings Corporation. He also spent more than three years as the Director of Operations in Europe and four years as Plant Manager at TRW.
]]> Wed, 16 May 2012 00:00:00 +0100 <![CDATA[IOG SALTEX MEETS COUNTRY PARK’S LEISURE NEEDS IN A BUSINESS-LIKE FASHION]]>

So says Bob Abel, Grounds Manager at Vision RCL (Redbridge Culture & Leisure) which operates and manages a wide range of services for Redbridge Council. This includes a 400-acre country park where he is charged with the management and maintenance of two golf courses, play areas, cycle tracks and gym areas, for example, as well as athletics facilities, plus boulder climbing and tracks/courses for orienteering.
 

“I usually go to the show (this year, Windsor Racecourse, September 4-6) with team members – four of us went last year – and while we have a ‘nice-to-have’ list of machines, equipment and tools for potential purchase, once we have seen what we like we normally arrange demos before we buy.


“I’ve been going to IOG SALTEX for over 20 years, and I’ve always enjoyed and benefited from the show.”


IOG SALTEX 2012 (www.iogsaltex.co.uk) will be held on September 4-6 at Windsor Racecourse, Berks, and will embrace fine turf and sports surfaces, turf maintenance equipment, children’s outdoor play and safety surfacing, landscaping, contractors, commercial vehicles, outdoor leisure and facilities management, as well as software and security equipment.  The show is attended by open space management professionals and contractors – from groundsmen and greenkeepers through to play officers, architects, designers and surveyors as well as local authority and outdoor leisure facility managers.
]]> Tue, 15 May 2012 00:00:00 +0100 <![CDATA[KAWASAKI OFFERS 0 PERCENTAGE FINANCE PACKAGE ON THREE KEY MODELS]]>
Designed to offer the highest possible degree of flexibility, the scheme allows those who purchase from participating dealers the option to agree both the repayment period and deposit that suits them best.

Unveiling the scheme, Simon Riches, Kawasaki Product Manager for ATV and MULE commented that, allied to Kawasaki’s already highly competitive retail prices, the new scheme will attract many cost conscious purchasers.

“We spoke to dealers and customers and the universal demand was not simply for competitive finance but the ability to fine tune the package on an individual basis. With three of our most popular models in the scheme we are sure this will bring the prospect of owning a brand new or replacement machine within the scope of the vast majority of users”


]]> Tue, 15 May 2012 00:00:00 +0100 <![CDATA[MID KENT GC ELECTS FOR WIEDENMANN AGAIN]]>
Course Manager, Lee Sayers said he had no hesitation in choosing a Terra Spike; his only dilemma was which model to select for the club’s free draining chalk-based turf.

“We tend to change our main kit every five to seven years.  Our original aerator was a Wiedenmann P8 bought in 1999. Seven years ago I replaced that with the Terra Spike XP with hydraulic depth control.  This time round the key decision was not which manufacturer - it was more about the model to suit.”

The team at Mid Kent had to weigh up whether to opt for a slightly faster XD machine that went down to 275 mm or whether they needed the capacity to spike to 400 mm. 

“We have varying levels of topsoil over the chalk.  As often as not, we’re tining our fairways, tees, approaches and semi-rough to 200 mm deep. Now and again we have it working at full depth with new tines on for a few spots that hold the moisture more, so the eventual decision was to go with a direct repeat of the Terra Spike XP.”

After 13 years of regular aeration the turf at Mid Kent is in excellent health. Since his arrival in 2003, Lee Sayers has devised a precise and thorough maintenance programme. Testimony to its effectiveness was when 86mm of rain fell in just eight days during April and flash flooding in the vicinity, members at Mid Kent resumed play shortly after the rain stopped with no ill effects to the course.

Aeration is carried out virtually every day from the end of October until March; the greens spiked three times a year and every cut surface at least once. With the XP simple to operate, the entire greenkeeping staff of seven is involved, everyone allocated one day of aeration duties per week.

“In an ideal world I’d take two aerators - allowing a smaller one for tees, greens and tight spots - but we are incredibly fortunate that we can just about get away with using the 2.10 m machine everywhere about the course,” continues Lee Sayers.

“Our Massey Ferguson 3615 tractor has particularly wide rear tyres and in fairness without those, there are some locations where it would be quite restrictive to work.  I’m really happy with the Wiedenmann.  The fact that we’ve bought our third machine says more than anything else. If we’d had any concerns or problems then you might have bought a second one but you wouldn’t have bought a third one!”

Sales Manager, Vic Maynard from dealer, Ernest Doe at Dartford said: “Wiedenmann aerators are extremely reliable and efficient.  Once customers experience a Terra Spike they have the bar set very high. With the extra deep XP, Lee and his team continue to have the perfect aerator for what they want to achieve.”
]]> Tue, 15 May 2012 00:00:00 +0100 <![CDATA[JCB WINS £60 MILLION MACHINE TENDER AS BRAZIL GOES FOR GROWTH]]>
The company beat off competition from other major global manufacturers to secure the deal for the fleet of backhoe loaders, which will be used to improve the road infrastructure in the country. The first 114 of the 1,016 backhoes have now been delivered and the keys to one of the first machines handed over by Brazilian President Dilma Rousseff to Cleri Camilotti, the Mayor of the city of Três Passos from the State of Rio Grande do Sul.

The remainder of the 3C backhoes - all of which will be manufactured at JCB’s factory in Sao Paulo, Brazil - will be delivered by the end of June. The machines are being bought by the Brazilian Federal Government for use in more than 1,000 municipalities across the country with populations over 50,000 people. They will be deployed to improve and open up thousands of miles of secondary roads in communities heavily dependent on farming, ensuring food gets to its final market much quicker.  

A third of all farms in Brazil are family enterprises in remote areas of the country where the road network needs to be upgraded and the purchase of the machines is part of a major federal government growth initiative. In total Brazil has more than 400,000 family farms.

Carlos Hernandez, Managing Director of JCB Brazil, said: “These JCB machines will play a big role in improving the infrastructure nationwide and ultimately ensure produce from family farms gets to its destination quickly”.

President Dilma Rousseff, who is the first woman to hold the position in Brazil’s history, said: “The backhoes will solve the problem of the transit of goods”.

Mayor Três Passos Cleri Camilotti said: “For us mayors, when we receive a backhoe, it has the same meaning and importance as if we were getting a house when we get married.”

Under the terms of the tender, JCB Brazil is also providing in-depth training on the machines for operators across the country, which has a population of more than 180 million people.
]]> Tue, 15 May 2012 00:00:00 +0100 <![CDATA[TIMBERPLAY WANT TO GO TO CHELSEA…]]>
The garden has been developed in association with the Southern Counties Water to highlight the water shortages in the area. The Lock Gate will be used to control the flow of collected rain water into a series of channels, which will irrigate the garden. Nicholas Dexter, Landscape Designer comments:-
“I had planned to develop my own lock mechanism to feed into the channels, however, when I researched products on the marketplace, the Timberplay lock was manufactured to such a high standard it was a better option. We shall be building the garden from next month, but the plans have already generated a lot of interest from the media and event organisers.” The layout to the garden references the cracks in the earth produced by prolonged dry weather. Water collected via a storm water channel is used to permeate the ground. It is then fed into a terraced rainwater pond and recirculated.

Nicholas Dexter is a renowned Garden Designer who heads up a Brighton based consultancy. He champions gardens that are both natural and modern, creating relaxed spaces that retain an underlying sense of order and geometry.

For more information on Timberplay range of waterplay products call on 0114 282 3474 or take a look at their website, www.timberplay.com.
]]> Thu, 10 May 2012 00:00:00 +0100 <![CDATA[HAVING GIVEN 22 YEARS SERVICE, NICK DARKING HAS BEEN REWARDED WITH PROMOTION TO GENERAL MANAGER OF SURREY BASED CHARTERH]]>
Nick, 41, began working in the workshop in 1989 and has moved up the sales tree through being a Demonstrator; Territory Manager and latterly Sales Manager.

Herman de Bree, Sales & Marketing Director of Charterhouse Turf Machinery, said of the appointment, “Nick has been our ‘man on the ground’ for over 22 years now and it is fitting that he steps up to General Manager status. His solid understanding of our unique product range has helped the company maintain its market leadership in Aerators, especially large scale ones that we have pioneered.”

In any spare time that Nick has he likes to play a round of golf and take in as many music concerts as he can, although he says “Now having the responsibility of being General Manger will limit free time, but will be worthwhile as we project CTM into the next phase of its history.”
]]> Tue, 08 May 2012 00:00:00 +0100 <![CDATA[IOG SALTEX GIVES CRICKET GROUNDSMAN PLENTY OF FOOD FOR THOUGHT...]]>
“I go to the annual show at Windsor (this year, September 4-6) to look for new ideas and the latest machinery – anything that may be helpful in maintaining our square here in Nuneaton, plus the grass and artificial nets, as well as our artificial wicket,” he says. “And I usually always find something useful. At last year’s show, for example, I identified a few pieces of kit that the club hopes to purchase via grant funding, to help maintain the playing surface for our teams that are affiliated to Warwickshire Cricket, Warwickshire Youth Cricket and Nuneaton Thursday Cricket Leagues.”

q IOG SALTEX 2012 (www.iogsaltex.co.uk) will be held on September 4-6 at Windsor Racecourse, Berks, and will embrace fine turf and sports surfaces, turf maintenance equipment, children’s outdoor play and safety surfacing, landscaping, contractors, commercial vehicles, outdoor leisure and facilities management, as well as software and security equipment. The show is attended by open space management professionals and contractors – from groundsmen and greenkeepers through to play officers, architects, designers and surveyors as well as local authority and outdoor leisure facility managers.
]]> Tue, 08 May 2012 00:00:00 +0100 <![CDATA[TEAM PLAYERS IN A LEAGUE OF THEIR OWN]]> ]]> Tue, 08 May 2012 00:00:00 +0100 <![CDATA[RURAL WOMEN AND THEIR STORIES SOUGHT TO CELEBRATE QUEEN’S JUBILEE]]>
Countryside, one of the NFU’s flagship member magazines, is celebrating the Queen's Diamond Jubilee by exploring a number of themes, including conservation, countryside access and the 'Good Life' revolution. In the first article in the series, readers are being asked to send in their thoughts on how the roles and responsibilities of women have evolved since Princess Elizabeth became Queen in 1952.

Martin Stanhope, Countryside editor, said: “My grandmother was a Land Girl who met my farming Grandfather during the war and their partnership was instrumental in building the family farming business in the post-war years. But it’s fascinating to see how those roles have evolved, from one primarily of home-maker to the much more hands-on decision-making positions held by today’s rural women.

“So we’re really keen to hear the stories of today’s country women – or their families – and how they first got involved in farming, what obstacles or prejudice they encountered, and their hopes for the future.”

Readers are being asked to get involved by sending in their thoughts on how they think life has changed in the countryside since Her Majesty took to the throne in 1952.

Anyone who would like to contribute should email martin.stanhope@nfu.org.uk or write to Countryside magazine, Agriculture House, Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire, CV8 2TZ.
]]> Tue, 08 May 2012 00:00:00 +0100 <![CDATA[GAPFAST - THE MISSING LINK FOR PERFECT PAVING]]>
“Just like a tile spacer but for Paving. Every how-to-lay-a-patio leaflet or on-line guide will stipulate the use of spacers but before Gapfast you couldn’t buy them and had to make your own” said Craig Amor, Director Resigap Ltd.

Gapfast paving spacers provide a rapid method of installation to all flag paving, giving accurate and consistent 10mm joint widths. In addition they have been designed to stay in place (unlike a tile spacer) thereby making paving stronger. Once the pointing is complete the product is invisible and will not rot or disintegrate. If the pointing subsequently fails the paving flags will remain in place, substantially reducing the repair costs.

Gapfast are now available in “Crosses” for chequerboard laying patterns and “Tees” for offset laying patterns and are packaged in bags of 50 spacers, sufficient for approximately 10m² (dependent on the slab size & laying pattern). The product has been patented and the company is proud that it is manufactured in the UK from recycled materials.

The product was first presented to Tony McCormack, Pavingexpert.com to obtain feedback from the paving guru. The feedback was very constructive; “these paving spacers are a simple and effective tool to assist the paving layer and I can see them becoming widely used” said Tony.

The product has also been demonstrated on the Alan Titchmarsh show on ITV1 and Alan thought "they certainly make life easier". His co-host and resident paving expert Sven Wombwell was pleased “you can now get these fantastic Gapfast spacers”.

Whilst the initial target market for this product was the DIY’er, the subsequent market research and feedback has shown that the product has clear advantages for paving contractors as it can save them both time and money.

Gapfast is the first product launch from Resigap Ltd. The company has a number of other complimentary products that it is planning to launch into the paving market over the coming months.

]]> Wed, 02 May 2012 00:00:00 +0100 <![CDATA[QUEEN’S AWARD IS CROWNING GLORY FOR WORLD NO.1 JCB BACKHOE ]]>  
  The Queen’s Award for Enterprise has been bestowed on the Backhoe Loader Business Unit in the International Trade category for 2012. It is the 27th Queen’s Award to be won by the JCB Group since 1969 – a record for a UK company – and the 6th for its backhoe loaders. The Award honours an increase in overseas sales of almost 150% from 2009 to 2011.  
 
  The news comes in the week that JCB announced at the Intermat construction equipment show in Paris that it had retained its position as the World’s Number One manufacturer of backhoe loaders for the 12th year in succession.  
 
  JCB Group Chief Executive Alan Blake said: “To be World Number One with the JCB backhoe loader is a tremendous endorsement of the quality and innovation that goes into producing this machine. To receive a Queen’s Award honouring export sales growth of the JCB backhoe is the icing on the cake and a huge honour for every single employee associated its success.”
 
 The backhoe loader was pioneered by JCB founder Joseph Cyril Bamford in 1953 and JCB now manufactures the iconic machine on three continents: at the company’s World HQ in Rocester, Staffordshire, UK; in Delhi, India and in Sao Paulo, Brazil. The backhoe is sold in more than 120 different countries. As well as strengthening ties in established markets, such as Russia and the CIS, Eastern Europe and the Middle East, JCB has also opened up new markets over the last three years, including Latin America and Africa, where sales success is being enjoyed in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Guyana, Sierra Leone and Zambia.

]]> Wed, 02 May 2012 00:00:00 +0100 <![CDATA[ANGLO AMERICAN OIL COMPANY IS PLEASED TO ANNOUNCE CARTERS OF SWANWICK AS A NEW DEALER FOR THEIR ASPEN ALYKLATE FUEL RANG]]>
Aspen is an alkylate petrol which contains no benzene, sulphur or solvents - all of which are plentiful in the normal fuel designed for cars. Users of Aspen no longer experience headaches, sore throats and eyes or nausea and generally feel much better at work from not having to breathe in these harmful chemicals. Aspen isn’t only better for the user; because of the cleaner burning characteristics of the product it means that engine machines remain cleaner and require less servicing. Ordinary petrol deteriorates if it is stored in containers or petrol tanks, which results in starting and operating problems. Aspen retains its quality meaning it can be left it in a machine for as long as is needed without the risk of the carburetor getting clogged up. With increasing levels of ethanol in pump fuels these issues are being accelerated.

“We’ve had customers coming in for years asking for ready mixed fuel, we’ve listened and are now pleased to be able to provide Aspen to our customers.” Dave Jacobs, MD of Carters of Swanwick

Carters of Swanwick specialize in nearly all types of garden machinery, lawn mowers and ground care equipment and provide service and repairs to Swanwick and the surrounding area.

“We have also had lots of customers suffering with problems with their machines caused by stale fuel,” explained Dave. “Aspen can act as a preventive to these troubles as it won’t clog up our customer carburetors.” Aspen is available in a ready mixed 2-stroke and a plain 4-stroke version and both are available in 1 litre and 5 litre containers and in 200 litre drums. For more information visit www.aaoil.co.uk/environment and www.cartersofswanwick.co.uk
]]> Wed, 02 May 2012 00:00:00 +0100 <![CDATA[A VERY SUCCESSFUL INTERMAT 2012 EXHIBITION FOR DOOSAN INFRACORE CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT]]>
Visitors to the 4,300 m² DI CE stand in Hall 6 were able to see a comprehensive selection of heavy and compact equipment with the Doosan, Bobcat and Doosan Portable Power brands.

Scott Nelson, President of DI CE in Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA), said: “We showed our new Doosan Stage IIIB compliant excavators and wheel loaders for the first time as well as our new excavator and wheel loader ranges specifically designed for the Middle East and Africa markets. These new products were complemented by a strong display of Bobcat compact equipment and telescopic handlers including the unveiling of the new Limited Edition E16 model to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Bobcat compact excavator range. Also on display were examples of products that have migrated to the Doosan brand, such as the new DA40 40 tonne articulated dump truck and the Portable Power range of air compressors and generators.”

Outside, on a demonstration area of more than 2,500 m², exciting and entertaining shows of Doosan and Bobcat equipment, judged by Intermat organizers to be the best at the exhibition, were held throughout the week.

A special highlight at Intermat was the presence of guest, David Arthon, owner and principal of the company Arthon & Sons based in Aix-en-Provence in France, which is specialized in demolition, earthmoving and municipal work as well as rental of machines with operators. David, a passionate fan and operator of Bobcat machines, won the Bobcat 50 years contest in 2008, and was rewarded the following year with a trip to New York and visit to the Bobcat factories in the USA. During the entire week at Intermat, David participated with the company’s professional demonstrators to carry out the demo shows.

As well as welcoming thousands of visitors, the DI CE stand hosted two official delegations during the week. The first was the official inauguration delegation for Intermat 2012, led by Bernard Accoyer, President of the National Assembly of France. After officially opening the show, the delegation was greeted on the DI CE stand by Gilles Bendaoud, General Director France, and Norbert Donaberger, Vice President Sales and Marketing – EMEA. Mr Accoyer and the other dignitaries in the group showed interest in a number of products on show, including those manufactured in the company’s plants in France.

The following day, Doosan management, led by Gaby Rhayem, Regional Director for the Middle East region, welcomed an official delegation from the Middle East, led by His Excellency Mohamed Meer Abdalla Al Raeesi, Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates in France, which was lending its support to the Paris show in advance of the Intermat Middle East Exhibition, which will take place later in the year in Abu Dhabi in the UAE from 8-10 October 2012.

Making a surprise visit on Thursday to Intermat, Tony Helsham, CEO of DI CE, congratulated the company teams who had organized the Intermat stands.

Heralded as the biggest and best in its history, Intermat 2012 featured more than 1350 exhibitors, of which 67% were international. With more than 200,000 visitors, a record for a B2B exhibition, including over 145,000 industry professionals (up 15.8% on 2009), of which 34% were international, Intermat again demonstrated its international reach and confirmed its position in the Mediterranean and African markets. The results for Intermat 2012 can be seen by clicking on the link:
http://en.intermat.fr/THE-EXHIBITION/Private-spaces/INTERMAT-Press-release-report

Summing up, Gilles Bendaoud commented: “Right from the start, we were pleasantly surprised by the size of the crowds visiting the show on Monday, the opening day of Intermat. Throughout the week, visitors showed a strong interest in Doosan and Bobcat products. We were delighted by the business deals that were concluded and the contacts made at the exhibition.”

For more information about Bobcat equipment, visit www.bobcat.eu

For more information about Doosan construction equipment, visit www.doosanequipment.eu
]]> Wed, 02 May 2012 00:00:00 +0100 <![CDATA[RANSOMES JACOBSEN APPOINTED MEGA TRUCK IMPORTERS FOR THE UK]]>
The agreement, signed recently between Aixam Mega, based at Aix-les-Bains in the Rhône-Alpes region of south eastern France, and Ransomes Jacobsen, will see the Ipswich-based company marketing the new range, which includes the Mega e-Worker electric truck and Multitruck 600 low emission diesel truck.

Mega multi-purpose utility vehicles can be easily adapted for a multitude of applications in green spaces, waste collection, universities, military sites, hotel complexes, leisure parks, airports, industrial and manufacturing facilities, transport and logistics businesses. They are ideal for trades-people of all descriptions including plumbers, jobbing builders, florists, courier companies, landscape contractors and much more.

The Mega e-Worker is an electric vehicle with a tight turning circle and compact external dimensions, making it highly manoeuvrable. Robustly constructed with excellent carrying capacity, an ability to tow and dynamic performance, it meets the needs of the most demanding users. Like all Mega vehicles, the e-Worker is available in several versions and with a large and varied range of equipment.

At the recent signing of the agreement, Rupert Price, sales director at Ransomes Jacobsen said, “We are delighted to be signing this agreement with Aixam Mega. There is a real synergy between their extensive range of eco vehicles and our E-Z-GO golf buggies and our Cushman turf utility and light industrial vehicles. We have subsumed the existing Mega dealer networker into our distribution and will be actively looking to establish more touch points across the UK.”

Gilles Géry, signatory to the agreement for Aixam Mega added, “Ransomes Jacobsen has an excellent understanding of the light industrial vehicle sector and extensive knowledge of electric vehicles through their E-Z-GO and Cushman brands, and latterly with their all-electric ride-on greens mower in the golf sector. I’m convinced they will be the perfect partners for promoting the brand in the UK. Aixam Mega looks forward to a long and mutually beneficial partnership as we increase the level of business, going forward.”

Ransomes Jacobsen is a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company.
]]> Wed, 02 May 2012 00:00:00 +0100 <![CDATA[TECHNICAL SURFACES HELPS CUSTOMERS REACH THEIR GOALS]]>
A key part of their inspection service involves visual safety checks of both the artificial pitch and any on-site pitch equipment, including goals, nets and anchorage. As well as identifying any potential failures or issues and reporting them promptly within their comprehensive Surface Inspection Assessments, Technical Surfaces also offers its customers the option to service or replace any faulty, damaged or dangerous pitch equipment.

The Astro Turf Area Service is an affordable equipment servicing package available as part of Technical Surface’s AstroTech® range. So whether it’s gym, sports hall or artificial pitch equipment, Technical Surfaces can arrange a low-cost inspection and repair service to ensure your facility is up to scratch. This service comes with a certificate of compliance, together with a full report detailing any recommendations for repair or replacement, and has been completed in schools, academies, universities, sports colleges and leisure centres across the country.

In partnership with sports equipment specialist Harrod UK, Technical Surfaces provides a wide range of football, hockey and tennis apparatus within its AstroTech® range of equipment designed specifically for use on artificial pitches. Anchorage is key to the safe use of goals on artificial pitches, and Technical Surfaces can supply counterbalance weights or socketed ground anchors to ensure your goals conform to the required British Standard. Grounds maintenance is also catered for within the AstroTech® collection, with a host of boot wipers, entrance mats and drag brushes to help keep artificial surface free from litter, dirt and leaf debris. A full-size surface can also be easily divided into smaller pitches with pitch divider systems that enable increased usage – and revenue – from your artificial sports pitch.

One satisfied customer is Romsey Community School, in Hampshire: “We have used Technical Surfaces for almost a decade now to look after our sand-filled synthetic pitch” explains Site Manager, Ian Ince. “We needed to replace our hockey and five-a-side goals and nets, and we were pleased to discover that Technical Surfaces offers this service as well. It took away the hassle from sourcing a new supplier, and gave us peace of mind that we were using the right equipment on our pitch.”

Technical Surfaces has also installed the socketed goals, nets and net supports, as well as corner flags, used on the 3G pitch at Park Hall Stadium, home of the 2011-2012 Welsh Premier League champions The New Saints FC, another long-standing customer.

For more information on the correct equipment to use on your artificial pitch, contact Technical Surfaces and request a copy of their 2012 AstroTech® Equipment Brochure. Alternatively, visit them online at www.technicalsurfaces.co.uk/equipment
]]> Wed, 02 May 2012 00:00:00 +0100 <![CDATA[A SPRAYER FOR EVERY SEASON, FROM MOSS TO ICE]]> Owners and managers of community areas - as well as domestic gardens - are being offered the chance to be ready for both summer lawn problems and winter ice problems with one clever push sprayer. The UK importers of the EarthWay Ev-n-Spred S15 have provided one reliable, quality sprayer to do the work of two removing the need to always have one stored away.

DMMP import the EarthWay range as it provides hard-working tools for professionals, with a build quality to exceed expectations. In the USA where the range is made the S15 often doubles up as a successful Ice Melt sprayer, making short work of snow and ice on paths and walkways and in car parks. In the summer it is used to fight weeds and moss, and in the winter it makes short work of snow and ice, explains DMMPs Managing Director Marcus Palmer. Were keen to share this advice with our UK customers as we know this will save them money as well as storage.

As well as saving money, the S15 also saves fuel as it has no engine and no battery resulting in a greener, leaner, quieter option for domestic gardens, small landscaped areas and in winter, paths and walkways.

The S15 features EarthWays patented gear pump which is cleverly driven by its 25.4cm pneumatic-tyred wheels. The sprayer doesnt require any batteries or engine; once the user starts pushing the sprayer, it powers itself and is capable of spraying widths in excess of 1.5m or as narrow as 60cm. A 22 litre tank equals 800 square metres of weed killer or Ice Melt to tackle tasks, whatever the weather.

One sprayer which can be used all year round makes perfect financial sense, concludes Marcus. Couple this with durability, top quality and reliability and the S15 is an astute investment.

The EarthWay Ev-n-Spred S15 retails at 299.90 plus VAT and is supplied fully assembled. Ice Melt is also available from DMMP. For more information, please contact Colin Hood at DMMP Limited on 0845 643 9776 or visit www.dmmp.co.uk



]]> Fri, 27 Apr 2012 00:00:00 +0100 <![CDATA[SPAIN’S NO 1 GOLF COURSE, PGA CATALUNYA RESORT, SIGNS PREFERRED SUPPLIER AGREEMENT WITH RANSOMES JACOBSEN]]> Ipswich, Suffolk (April 16, 2012) Recently voted the No 1 golf course in Spain, The PGA Catalunya Resort, situated in 300 hectares of outstanding countryside, just minutes from the centre of Girona in northern Spain, has signed a five-year preferred supplier agreement with Ransomes Jacobsen, the Ipswich-based turf maintenance equipment manufacturer and Textron Inc. (NYSE:TXT) company.

Over the next five years, the entire fleet will become orange as the previous equipment is replaced with a range of modern turf maintenance products manufactured in Charlotte, North Carolina and at the company’s European manufacturing base in Ipswich, Suffolk.

PGA Catalunya Resort took delivery of its first item of Jacobsen equipment last year with the arrival of a Fairway 405, a seven gang ride-on fairway mower.

Commenting on the signing of the agreement, David Bataller head greenkeeper responsible for the two 18-hole courses, the Stadium and the Tour said,

“Our current fleet is seven years old and as Spain’s number one golf experience, course presentation is highly important to us. The quality of cut we get from the 405 played a significant role in determining our choice of equipment. We mow the fairways every day as you would expect from a club of our standing and the finish it’s producing is superb.

“I’ve been impressed with the level of service we’ve received from Ransomes Jacobsen’s Spanish distributor, Green Mowers of Burgos, following the purchase of the Fairway 405 and this was also a contributory factor in our decision to go with Ransomes Jacobsen.”

Bataller has worked most of his life in the Catalan region, starting his career when employed during the construction of Golf Girona in 1991 and later being appointed course manager. He subsequently worked at Barcelona Golf Club and Club de Golf Peralada before taking up his position at PGA Golf Catalunya.

Miguel Girbes, Golf Director at PGA Catalunya Resort added,

“We strive continually to enhance the golfing experience for both elite players and visitors on golfing breaks and have recently upgraded our practice facilities which will make a visit to PGA Catalunya Resort even more memorable. We particularly want PGA Catalunya Resort to become the preferred winter training camp for golf federations and clubs around Europe and the signing of this strategic partnership with Ransomes Jacobsen will be a contributory factor to help us achieve this goal.”

PGA Catalunya Resort is situated on 300 hectares of rolling Catalan countryside, just minutes from the cultural streets of Girona. It is an hour drive from the diverse city life of Barcelona in the south and an hour from the slopes of the Pyrenees to the north. Girona-Costa Brava Airport is conveniently located just five minutes drive away.

In 2012, PGA Catalunya Resort’s acclaimed Stadium course was ranked Spain’s no.1 by Top100golfcourses.co.uk. It has also maintained its position within the World and Continental European Top 100 Golf Courses rankings (Golf World) since 2009. Originally designed by Angel Gallardo and Neil Coles along with European Golf Design to host the 1997 Ryder Cup, the Stadium Course has accommodated a number of major international events, including two Spanish Opens and four consecutive European Tour Qualifying School Final Stage events.

About Textron Inc.

Textron Inc. is a multi-industry company that leverages its global network of aircraft, defence, industrial and finance businesses to provide customers with innovative solutions and services. Textron is known around the world for its powerful brands such as Bell Helicopter, Cessna Aircraft Company, Jacobsen, Kautex, Lycoming, E-Z-GO, Greenlee, and Textron Systems. For more information visit: www.textron.com.

]]> Fri, 27 Apr 2012 00:00:00 +0100 <![CDATA[CUT THE COST OF WATERING – NOT FLORAL DISPLAYS ]]> Stunning floral displays that demand a lower frequency and amount of water can be achieved by specifying the inclusion into composts of water management additive Celcote this Spring, say crop protection company Certis.

“It’s a proven solution for cutting the costs associated with frequent watering,” says the firm’s Martin Donnelly. “Yet, it won’t compromise plant quality or the visual impact delivered by hanging baskets, pots and other containerised plant display features during this 2012 Olympics season.

Already widely used by nurseries producing for garden centres and retailers, compost treated with Celcote enables more water to be retained and crucially be plant available without causing waterlogging thus enabling a significant reduction in both water volume used and application frequency, both of which cost money. In trials as much as a 66% reduction in watering requirements was achieved.

This is not only the year of the Olympics, it will also be the year of drought orders in many parts of the UK so using Celcote not only saves money but also reduces unnecessary use of water.

For more details or specific advice please contact Certis on 01980 676501.

]]> Fri, 27 Apr 2012 00:00:00 +0100 <![CDATA[TORO ROLLS OUT LATEST PRODUCT LAUNCH… THE GREENSPRO 1200 GREENS ROLLER]]> The latest launch from Toro distributor Lely UK is the GreensPro 1200 greens roller.

Transforming fine turf into a smooth, high-performance surface for optimum play, the GreensPro is ideal for use on golf courses, tennis courts, bowling greens and other fine turf applications.

The GreensPro offers the precise performance you’d expect from Toro. Key features include an offset roller design that delivers a consistent rolling pattern without leaving a roll line. A floating junction point also allows the rollers to move independently, following undulations in the terrain. In addition, a wide turning radius minimises scuffing and turf damage when the operator makes a turn at the end of each pass.

Easy-to-operate foot pedals control the speed of the side-to-side operation, while an adjustable seat makes the greens roller comfortable to use. A Honda engine powers it and provides a rolling width of 120cm/48in with a maximum ground speed of six miles per hour for great productivity. What’s more, a single operator can quickly convert the machine from work to transport mode without tools.

Commenting on the UK launch of the greens roller, Lely’s Toro national sales manager Jeff Anguige says: “The GreensPro 1200 is designed to smooth the turf while helping improve its health, consistency and playability – essential qualities for games played on fine turf. We’re delighted to add it to our portfolio and to see Toro further expand its comprehensive range – we really are a one-stop-shop for fine turf machinery.”

For more information about the new Toro GreensPro 1200 greens roller, contact your local Toro dealer. Alternatively, call distributor Lely UK on 01480 226800, email toro.info.uk@lely.com or visit www.toro.com.



]]> Fri, 27 Apr 2012 00:00:00 +0100