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Aspen Fuel converts petrol fumes to reliable performance

Aspen Fuel converts petrol fumes to reliable performance

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Aspen Fuel converts petrol fumes to reliable performance

As Arb Approved contractors, Shire Trees proudly work to the highest and safest standards on domestic and commercial tree works across Cambridgeshire. A third-generation business, tradition underpins much of the day-to-day operations, but one thing that hasn’t stayed the same is their choice of fuel. After 17 years of working with standard petrol and its harsh fumes, Owner James Cantle has transformed the running of the business and the wellbeing of his team by switching to Aspen Fuel.

Aspen Fuel converts petrol fumes to reliable performance

Aspen Fuel converts petrol fumes to reliable performance

James started working alongside his father in 2005 before taking over the family business in 2017. In the interim years he enjoyed periods working in Bergen, Norway, which is where he first encountered Aspen alkylate fuel. “I hadn’t really come across it before but over there, everyone uses it – you can even buy it straight from the pump” he explains. “Immediately you noticed the difference in engine performance. It was smokeless and the saws just ran better, something I was keen to implement on my return to the UK.”

“As an employer, you’re always monitoring things like vibrations and exposure to harmful toxins and fumes so using Aspen in all of our petrol-powered equipment is just one less thing to worry about.” He continues, “The reduction in fumes not only makes a real difference to our team of eight operatives, especially when working in confined spaces, it’s also important for work in public areas. It has definitely helped us score well in a number of school tenders for example.”

For James and the team, the perks of Aspen extend well beyond the health benefits. “The convenience of it being pre-mixed adds further peace of mind that we’re not going to get incorrect fuel ratios clogging up carburettors in the field. The shelf life of Aspen also means that we can pull out machines that perhaps only get used a couple of times a year and they’ll still start first time. The days of draining out tanks before putting the equipment away are long gone!”

“The time saved here, and the convenience of having the Aspen delivered by Ben Burgess in bulk 200L drums to our site goes a long way to offset the additional upfront cost.”

Aspen 2 is alkylate petrol premixed at 50:1 with a premium quality biodegradable 2-stroke oil. Virtually free from harmful substances such as benzene, aromatic hydrocarbons or olefins – and with no ethanol – Aspen helps equipment run cleaner for longer.

James concludes, “For us, it just makes a lot of sense. While the price per litre may be higher, the combination of the health benefits, convenience, reliability and reduced downtime means Aspen delivers real value where and when it matters most.”

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STIHL launches new backpack blowers

STIHL launches new backpack blowers

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STIHL launches new backpack blowers

STIHL has launched the BRA 200 and BRA 280 B backpack blowers, designed to quickly and effectively clear large areas. With batteries in place, the compact and lightweight machines weigh little over 10KG, making them ideal for professional landscaping jobs. In addition, the machines are both quick and easy to adjust ensuring that users can focus on the task at hand.

STIHL launches new backpack blowers

STIHL launches new backpack blowers

With a consistent and powerful blowing force, the BRA 280 B provides three easily controlled modes, while the BRA 200 offers a variable trigger control for simple operation. Both machines feature an additional boost function for tough clearing jobs, which can be activated for the duration of the tool’s use.  Weighing Maximum blowing force in boost is 26 Newtons for the BRA 280 B and 21 Newtons for the BRA 200.

To further support professionals, the blowers are equipped with a carrying system to guarantee reduced strain and comfortable working, even during long periods of operation. While their splash-proof design makes them ideal for use in all weather conditions.

In addition, both machines provide dual battery slots, enabling them to automatically draw power from their second battery, once the first is empty. This allows professionals to continue their work without interruption for ultimate convenience.

The backpack blowers are designed to support integration with STIHL’s Connected system, a digital fleet management solution that helps professionals keep track of their tools, servicing schedules, and machine use.

Complete with an energy saving mode for optimised use, the BRA 280 B also comes with an advanced LED display, providing users with a clear view of working mode and battery levels.

BRA 280 B

 

 Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 BOOST
Blowing Force (N) 14 17 21 26
Runtime 1 x AP 500 S (min)  30 25 18 12

 

BRA 200

 

 Variable Trigger:

Low

 Variable Trigger: 

Fully Pressed

 BOOST
Blowing Force (N) 5 17 21
Runtime 1 x AP 300 S (min) 97 19 14

The new designs arrive as STIHL celebrates its 100th anniversary. Since 1926, STIHL has defined the global standard for battery and petrol-powered forestry, landscaping, and residential gardening equipment for professional and domestic users.

For more information on STIHL products, visit www.stihl.co.uk or contact your nearest STIHL Approved Dealer.

Find out more about STIHL’s historic milestone, here: https://100.stihl.com

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Longcliffe Golf Club Reaping the Rewards with Turf Tracker

Longcliffe Golf Club Reaping the Rewards with Turf Tracker

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Longcliffe Golf Club Reaping the Rewards with Turf Tracker

At Longcliffe Golf Club in Leicestershire, Course Manager Mike Bunney has transformed the way he manages turf since introducing Turf Tracker into his programme.

Longcliffe Golf Club Reaping the Rewards with Turf Tracker

Longcliffe Golf Club Reaping the Rewards with Turf Tracker

For a traditional heathland course set on the edge of Charnwood Forest, where precision is everything, the platform has quickly become an essential part of day-to-day decision making.

Turf Tracker is a digital agronomy and management tool that uses hyper-local weather data to help turf professionals make informed decisions. From spray and disease forecasting to clip volume tracking and machinery checks, it brings everything into one simple, paper-free system.

“I tried it and I’ve really taken to it, it’s been an absolute game changer for me,” says Mike, who has been at Longcliffe for around 20 years and in charge for the last eight.

Currently leading a team of seven, Mike is also overseeing major course improvements, including a new irrigation system and a large-scale tree project aimed at restoring Longcliffe’s heathland character.

Mike first introduced Turf Tracker through its digital pre-start checks, helping to improve organisation and accountability across the team.

“That was a big part of it, getting the team engaged in checking the machinery and servicing. It’s so easy to use,” he explains. “I can see who’s done their checks in the morning as it tells you all individually.”

The move away from paper records has also been a big win.

“We’ve no longer got files in filing cabinets in the workshop. Now it’s all online, which is so much more efficient.”

Using Turf Tracker’s N Tracker feature has allowed Mike to take the guesswork out of fertiliser applications.

“Instead of just guessing every year and spraying whenever I think I need to, I now keep a full log. I’m on top of when I spray and how much I spray,” he says. “It’s saved us quite a lot of money.”

Longcliffe Golf Club Reaping the Rewards with Turf Tracker 2

Longcliffe Golf Club Reaping the Rewards with Turf Tracker 2

Those savings are now being reinvested elsewhere on the course.

“What I’ve saved on fertilisers, I can put into seed, wetting agents and other important things.”

More recently, Mike has started using the clip volume feature to better understand turf growth and fine-tune maintenance.

“The difference last year was huge,” he says. “Instead of feeding without knowing if it was needed, I can now really manage my clip volume.”

By measuring clippings on selected greens, the team can make more accurate decisions, leading to noticeable improvements in performance.

“It’s made a big difference to our green speeds, which has always been a bit of a sore subject here. The improvement last year was massive.”

With weather-based forecasting and disease prediction tools, Turf Tracker is helping Mike plan with greater confidence.

“You can really forecast what’s going to happen with growth. The Microdochium forecast is also a really good feature as it helps you stay ahead.”

For Mike, the benefits are clear, and he is already encouraging others to take a look.

“I would definitely recommend Turf Tracker. I already am to other course managers as it’s transformed things for us.”

For more information, visit www.turftracker.net

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Bernhard Academy Appoints Matt Axton as Programme Leader

Bernhard Academy Appoints Matt Axton as Programme Leader

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Bernhard Academy Appoints Matt Axton as Programme Leader

Bernhard Academy is pleased to announce the appointment of Matt Axton as Programme Leader: Technical Training and Advisory, effective 8 June 2026.

Bernhard Academy Appoints Matt Axton as Programme Leader

Bernhard Academy Appoints Matt Axton as Programme Leader

Axton joins Bernhard Academy with extensive international experience in turf machinery and golf course engineering, further strengthening its commitment to delivering practical, industry-relevant education for turf professionals.

He brings a strong technical background, supported by NVQ Level 2 qualifications in Greenkeeping and Horticultural Engineering, and an NVQ Level 3 in Horticultural Engineering. His expertise was recognised with the prestigious City & Guilds Medal of Excellence, presented by HRH Prince Philip at St James’s Palace.

Throughout his career, Axton has held senior mechanical and management roles at leading venues including The Belfry, Copt Heath Golf Club and The Warwickshire Golf & Country Club. Internationally, he spent eight years as Equipment Manager at The Royal Golf Club in Bahrain and later served as After Sales Manager for Hydroturf in Qatar, working closely with Toro and Club Car equipment and dealer networks.

His hands-on experience across dealerships and greenkeeping roles has given him a well-rounded understanding of the technical and operational challenges faced by turf professionals. He has also played a key role in developing the Turf Equipment Technicians Organisation (TETO), a highly engaged global community that supports knowledge sharing across the industry.

Commenting on the appointment, Sami Strutt, Education Director at Bernhard Academy, said: “Matt’s depth of technical knowledge and real-world experience make him an outstanding addition to the team. His passion for developing others aligns perfectly with our mission to deliver relevant, high-quality education for the industry.”

In his new role, Axton will lead the delivery and development of Bernhard Academy’s technical training programmes, supporting professionals at all career stages while helping to develop the next generation of turf equipment technicians. He will also provide advisory support aligned with industry best practice and contribute to installations and event activity.

Axton added: “I’m delighted to be joining Bernhard Academy and to have the opportunity to give back to an industry that has shaped my career. I strongly believe technical training should be practical and grounded in real-world experience, and I look forward to supporting professionals at every stage of their development.”

For more information on Bernhard Academy and its training programmes, visit: https://bernhardacademy.co.uk/

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Reesink's BNPL offer allowed Stratford Oaks to do it all

Reesink’s BNPL offer allowed Stratford Oaks to do it all

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Reesink’s BNPL offer allowed Stratford Oaks to do it all

Stratford Oaks Golf Club committed to another five years of course excellence and financial sustainability with a significant reinvestment in Toro machinery, facilitated through the hugely popular ‘buy now, pay later’ finance agreement with Reesink Turfcare.

Reesink's BNPL offer allowed Stratford Oaks to do it all

Reesink’s BNPL offer allowed Stratford Oaks to do it all

With the finance offer secured in December, the latest investment sees the club upgrade and expand its machinery fleet, enabling the team to enhance operational efficiency while simultaneously progressing key course improvement projects.

“We didn’t want to have to put project work on hold while we upgraded the fleet,” says Course Manager James Cleaver. “The option of the ‘buy now, pay later’ deal meant we didn’t have to. We could secure the essential maintenance equipment we needed without compromising on investments elsewhere.”

Following routine due diligence, the Board of Directors concluded that this approach represented the most effective use of the club’s resources. “We invest carefully and it’s vital we get it right first time,” says James.

“A thorough evaluation of pricing versus total cost of ownership, parts availability, and long-term reliability across multiple brands confirmed that in practice and on paper Toro and Reesink would give us the financial predictability and continuity in course maintenance standards we were looking for.”

The five-year payment plan aligned strategically with the club’s machinery replacement cycle and the process itself was described as seamless by James, with Reesink’s team managing the bulk of the administration. “Josh Nash and the team at Reesink handled everything from start to finish. All we needed to do was review and sign off — it was incredibly straightforward.”

The investment comes at a pivotal time for the club, which is currently undertaking a series of major improvement projects. It is in phase two of a four-phase bunker refurbishment programme and replacing all its tees sprinklers. Construction is underway on a new maintenance facility, and it is developing its academy and introducing a new driving range and short game facilities. With these improvements intended to increase value for members while maintaining cost efficiency, it was important they could continue — and with Reesink’s ‘buy now, pay later’ deal they could.

Jon Cole, Divisional Business Manager at Reesink Turfcare, says: “We understand clubs need to balance investment with day-to-day operational demands. The goal of our flexible finance options is to make it as easy as possible to access the right machinery at the right time, without delaying important projects or compromising on quality.”

The deal includes two Toro Greensmaster 3420 mowers, three Greensmaster 1021 and two Greensmaster 1026 walking mowers, Workman utility vehicles, a Groundsmaster 4500 mower and two Reelmaster 3575-D which have been particularly useful for the site as it can get quite wet, says James. “We don’t risk any tearing or scuffing with this mower because they’re so lightweight.”

Looking ahead, Stratford Oaks is closely monitoring advancements in robotic mowing technology. “We’re very interested in how robotics are being adopted across UK golf clubs,” James added. “We expect Toro robotic mowers to play a role in our next machinery investment cycle, particularly on the new driving range.”

Jon concludes: “What stood out with the 2025 ‘buy now, pay later’ offer was just how popular it was. Now more than ever, we can see how much clubs value being able to spread the cost over a structured term, focusing on long-term value, improving efficiency, and planning with confidence — while we handle the process.”

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