Carnwath GC replaces trusty Jacobsen LF3800 after 20 years

Carnwath GC replaces trusty Jacobsen LF3800 after 20 years

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Carnwath GC replaces trusty Jacobsen LF3800 after 20 years 

The team at Carnwath Golf Club in South Lanarkshire took such good care of their Jacobsen LF3800 fairway mower that it delivered 20 reliable seasons and more than 6,000 hours of service. The original machine was supplied by Fairways GM, making the new LF570 a repeat purchase for the club — albeit one separated by two decades.

Carnwath GC replaces trusty Jacobsen LF3800 after 20 years

Carnwath GC replaces trusty Jacobsen LF3800 after 20 years

All good things eventually come to an end, and this season Head Greenkeeper Davie Cowan decided to call time on it. When the moment came to choose a replacement, the latest equivalent, the Jacobsen LF570, was the obvious choice.

Fairways GM’s Area Sales Manager, Stuart Cameron, supplied the new machine.

“We just wanted more of the same,” said Davie.

“We got it at Easter and are cutting fairways once a week until temperatures rise and we move to twice weekly. We could see instantly the difference it made. New technology means it’s quicker, sharper, has more horsepower — 44 hp instead of 35 hp — but essentially, it’s a better version of a good machine.”

Carnwath is a fine parkland course with rolling greens, gently undulating fairways and wide countryside views.

“With a clear run, and a push on, we will be able to get all 18 fairways done in a day. However, as the season gets busier you must put golfers’ needs first and we will be delighted with 16 and this quality of cut.”

Our picture shows Davie’s team of Mark, Tom and Aiden when the LF570 was delivered.

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STRI appointed for new Blackburn Rovers pitch

STRI appointed for new Blackburn Rovers pitch

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STRI appointed for new Blackburn Rovers pitch

STRI Group has been appointed by Blackburn Rovers Football Club to deliver a comprehensive design and build solution for the redevelopment of the stadium pitch at Ewood Park, following technical assessment work commissioned by the English Football League.

STRI appointed for new Blackburn Rovers pitch

STRI appointed for new Blackburn Rovers pitch

STRI was initially engaged by the EFL in December 2025 to investigate the causes of match postponements due to waterlogging at the stadium and following a detailed assessment and report, Blackburn Rovers engaged STRI to provide further investigation, alongside design and delivery services to address both immediate challenges and long-term pitch performance.

James Podesta, Development Director commented, “We’re delighted to be working alongside Blackburn Rovers. The redevelopment will address critical elements such as primary drainage, soil profile enhancement, irrigation systems and pitch run-offs, ensuring the surface can perform consistently under the demands of professional football.”

Construction is starting the 4th of May, and will be delivered by Carrick Construction, working closely with STRI’s design and consultancy teams to ensure the project is delivered to specification. This integrated approach combines technical design expertise with practical delivery, providing a streamlined solution from concept through to completion.

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GKB Machines expands UK dealer network

GKB Machines expands UK dealer network

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GKB Machines expands UK dealer network

Leading innovative implements manufacturer, GKB Machines, are pleased to announce the appointment of Turney Group as the latest authorised dealer to join their nationwide network. This partnership promises to combine industry-leading equipment with renowned local knowledge and experience to bring the full GKB natural and synthetic portfolio to customers throughout the south-west of England.

GKB Machines expands UK dealer network

GKB Machines expands UK dealer network

Turney Group has a longstanding reputation for excellence in the sales and support of agricultural, groundcare and arboricultural equipment – representing a number of leading franchises including New Holland, Husqvarna and Ransomes Jacobsen. With a rich history spanning more than 75 years, the group is split into three dedicated divisions, with Groundcare proudly supported from two depots in Bredon and Weston-on-the-Green.

With immediate effect Turney’s will have access to the full portfolio of GKB equipment, providing customers including golf courses, sports facilities, contractors and more with access to robust and reliable topdressers, aerators, seeders, scarifiers and solutions for effective artificial surface maintenance.

“We are delighted to expand our portfolio through the addition of GKB Machines across the entire Ransomes Jacobsen territory” says Turney Group Managing Director Phil Bush. “This new and long-term partnership with the team at GKB reinforces our commitment to providing high-quality, innovative solutions to meet the evolving needs of our customers and brings a great opportunity to grow our mutual business. We look forward to strengthening our market presence and delivering exceptional value through this enhanced offering.”

Tom Shinkins, UK Operations Manager for GKB Machines added, “We are proud to be working alongside Phil and the team at Turney’s. Their strong market presence, technical expertise and customer-focused approach perfectly aligns with our values and will ensure that customers receive improved product availability backed up with the highest levels of support.”

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New appointment at Indigrow

New appointment at Indigrow

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New appointment at Indigrow

Indigrow (UK) are delighted to announce the appointment of Wendy O’Brien as an Area Sales Manager in Surrey and Sussex.

New appointment at Indigrow

New appointment at Indigrow

Wendy brings a wide range of experience from 30 years of greenkeeping at a number of prestigious courses throughout the UK, Europe and the USA. As well as her most recent role as Course Manager at a private member club, she has also volunteered annually at 23 Masters tournaments, also volunteering at two Ryder Cups and the Women’s Open proving she is able to deliver the highest standards of greenkeeping on some of golf’s biggest stages.

Speaking about her appointment, Wendy said: “I am excited to join the Indigrow (UK) team and bring my experience and knowledge to a different side of this wonderful industry. As a regular user of Indigrow products throughout my previous roles in course management, I will be able to share my positive experiences with contacts new and old. I am looking forward to supporting greenkeepers and groundkeepers in the challenges they face to produce the best possible conditions as part of my new role.”

Wendy will focus her efforts with Indigrow (UK) in the Surrey and Sussex areas, expanding our areas of operation and working alongside our existing team members in the South of England.

We are delighted to welcome Wendy to the Indigrow (UK) team.

If you would like to reach out to Wendy to discuss future opportunities, please contact her on: 07483 719 618 or wobrien@indigrow.co.uk

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