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Sleaford Golf Club seeks higher standards

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Sleaford Golf Club seeks higher standards: Set in the heart of Lincolnshire, Sleaford Golf Club is an 18-hole private members course redesigned by Peter Alliss, with an additional 6-hole Academy par 3 course. Described as an inland links with sandy, well-draining soil, it is renowned for once having the longest first nine holes in the country, with no par 3s.

Much of the course is designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) that includes some of the most important calcareous grassland areas in the county, if not the UK. Nick Lawson, chairman of the club’s management committee and also greens chairman, has developed a passion for wildlife and environmental management and says:

Sleaford Golf Club seeks higher standards

Sleaford Golf Club seeks higher standards

“We are delighted to be working with Natural England and to play our part in maintaining the biodiversity of our environment, while ensuring that a natural evolution of the course is maintained.”

Part of this evolution has seen the introduction of the club’s first John Deere course maintenance equipment fleet supplied by local dealer F G Adamson & Son at Langworth, and supported by a five-year John Deere Financial lease deal. The new machines include a 2750E hybrid electric triplex mower, 7700A PrecisionCut fairway mower, 9009A TerrainCut rotary rough mower, a ProGator 2030A utility vehicle equipped with an HD200 amenity turf sprayer, and a TH 6×4 Gator utility vehicle.

The combination of new hybrid electric and programmable TechControl mower technology and advanced sprayer controls now enables the course to be managed in a more environmentally friendly manner, while also saving costs.

Nick Lawson has been a member at Sleaford Golf Club for over 30 years, and was persuaded to join the management committee in order to bring his financial and accountancy experience to bear. Together with director of golf Nigel Pearce, who has been at Sleaford for 20 years and was the club professional, and new course manager Brian Sharp – all three have been in post for less than three years – they embarked on an investment programme to improve the overall maintenance regime and bring everything back up to a higher standard after several years of decline.

“We had inherited an old five-year lease contract, so the new management committee set a good budget pre-Covid to replace and upgrade the machinery fleet,” says Nick Lawson. “This was put on hold during lockdown, but we consider the golf course to be the club’s prime asset. As soon as we were able to, we asked Brian for his wish list and then arranged a number of machinery demonstrations by the different manufacturers to see what worked best for us.

“We then went to tender, with John Deere and Adamsons giving the best presentation and their all-round choice of machinery just a little ahead of the others, so we signed the deal at the beginning of April. With the finance, we need flexibility to take advantage of the latest technology and different machinery wear rates, so in time we may have to adjust our budgets accordingly.

“We’ve never been down this route before, so we’re still learning the best way forward for the club and the course, but Brian and his team now have all the tools they need to do the job to the best possible standards.”

“One of the key reasons we chose the A Model mowers is being able to set up the mowing speed and frequency of cut for a consistent finish across the course, whoever’s on the machine,” says Brian Sharp. “We also needed a sprayer that was accurate and could speed up the job, particularly on the fairways.

“With our old tractor-mounted sprayer there was no calibration and we had no real idea of application rates. The HD200 is much more accurate, there’s no over-application and we know we’re hitting the target with whatever we spray, which really helps to lower our environmental footprint. We can now do all 18 holes in one go instead of having to refill halfway round, so we also save on man hours and keep ahead of the golfers.”

Nick Lawson adds: “By offering more flexible membership and guest options, our numbers are picking up again now. There’s been a net gain since the beginning of lockdown, and we’re confident things are now moving forward for the club.”

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Makita expands XGT 40VMAX range

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Makita expands XGT 40VMAX range: Leading power tool manufacturer Makita has made two new additions to its selection of XGT 40VMax machines. The new tools include the UR006G XGT 40VMax Brushless Brush Cutter and UR008G XGT 40VMax Brushless Linetrimmer.

The UR006G and UR008G are supported by Makita’s best-in-class XGT battery system that provides professional landscapers and groundskeepers with the reliability, power and performance they need to achieve top quality results.

Makita expands XGT 40VMAX range

Makita expands XGT 40VMAX range

UR006G XGT 40VMax Brushless Brush Cutter

The UR006G is a high-power machine that can deliver output of up to 7,000 rpm and similar power to a 30CC class engine grass trimmer, so users can experience the benefits of cordless without compromising on output. To deliver optimum performance, the UR006G has three speed options and features Automatic Torque Drive Technology (ADT) that intelligently adjusts the operation speed depending on the load conditions.

For maximum productivity, the UR006G features a reverse rotation switch that allows the operator to quickly clear the trimmer head or blade from entangled grass and weeds. What’s more, the UR006G uses smart Active Feedback Sensing Technology (AFT) to prevent kickback by automatically turning off the motor if the tool rotation suddenly slows, improving operator safety.

The UR006G also features a tool-less quick fastening handle holder, so operators can quickly and easily adjust the machine for comfortable operation and ease of storage.

UR008G 40VMax XGT Brushless Linetrimmer

Designed with comfort in mind, the new UR008G has a no-load speed of up to 6,000 RPM and an impressive cutting diameter of 430mm, ensuring maximum productivity. To ensure user safety, the UR008G produces low sound and vibration levels for a more comfortable operation – with a Noise K factor of 1.6 dB (A) and a Vibration K factor of 1.5m/sec ² when using the nylon cutting head. For safety and efficiency, the UR008G features Makita’s advanced ADT and AFT technology.

For jobs that span large areas, the UR008G is compatible with Makita’s battery backpacks (PDC01 and PDC1200) so users can comfortably work away from power sources without needing to regularly stop and replace batteries.

MR007GZ DAB/DAB+ Job Site Radio with Bluetooth

The new Makita MR007GZ DAB/DAB+ Job Site Radio can be powered by XGT, LXT and CXT batteries or an AC adaptor jack – so it can easily slot into an existing family of Makita products. The elastomer bumpers and IP65 dust and shower proof rating protect the radio from knocks and scuffs on site.

The radio is the perfect addition to any toolkit and offers a high-quality subwoofer for a deep and rich bass sound. What’s more, the sound quality is second to none as the MR007GZ also benefits from midrange/treble speakers, together with a multi-amplifier system that provides clear hi-fi sound reproduction without decreasing the sound quality at high volumes. Not only can users tune into their favourite radio station, the Bluetooth capability can also play audio from mobile devices up to 10 meters away.

DC40RB Two Port Charger

For twice as much battery power from a single charger, the DC40RB Twin Port Charger can charge two XGT 40VMax 4.0Ah batteries in as little as 45 minutes. With two charging slots, the new DC40RB can quickly and efficiently charge two XGT batteries to keep users equipped with the power they need.

The DC40RB uses intelligent real-time battery data for optimum charging and an electronic current limiter for overload protection which preserves the batteries’ condition. For enhanced usability, the interface features a large charging status indicator.

On the two new machines, Mark Earles, Business Development Manager for garden machinery, from Makita UK commented: “By adding to our line-up of cordless XGT outdoor power equipment, we hope to equip professionals with the best tools for even the most challending tasks. The XGT battery system is ideal for groundskeepers who require high powered machinery with the flexibility to cover large areas, or remote locations. In addition, our XGT batteries are IPX4 rated which means that they are protected against water and dust ingress – ideal for those working outside whatever the weather.”

To find out more about the full range of XGT outdoor power equipment, please visit: www.makitauk.com.

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phs Greenleaf sweeps the board

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phs Greenleaf sweeps the board: phs Greenleaf has won five industry-leading awards, including a special ‘Good Will Leaf Award’ for its unique rainbow Christmas tree which was created during the pandemic to bring hope and raise money for a mental health charity.

The Plants at Work Awards, run by the association representing interior landscapers, also awarded phs Greenleaf with gold awards for its maintenance work at the Trafford Centre in Manchester and its Christmas designs at Studley Castle Hotel in Warwickshire. It awarded silver awards for its design and installation work at Barton Square in Manchester and its contract work with Sodexo across the UK.

phs Greenleaf sweeps the board

phs Greenleaf sweeps the board

The coveted Good Will Leaf 2020 award was presented to companies whose work had a positive impact during the COVID-19 pandemic. Ahead of Christmas 2020, despite a difficult trading time, phs Greenleaf tasked its staff with designing a Christmas tree that could act as a symbol of hope during the lockdown festive season. The Rainbow Tree was created from the winning design and was quickly commissioned by Nationwide Building Society, which put one in each of its offices across the UK, raising over £1000 for MIND in the process.

phs Greenleaf was also awarded gold in the Christmas category for its elaborate festive designs at Studley Castle Hotel in Warwickshire. The Greenleaf team created over 20 different exterior and interior Christmas trees, as well as countless Christmas displays, each designed to match the existing themes of the hotel’s rooms.

They ranged from traditional red and golds, to an Alice in Wonderland theme and even a pink feather tree for the hotel’s unique flamingo-themed room. The trees, which ranged from 20ft to 7ft and were both live and artificial, were carefully sourced, designed and decorated by phs Greenleaf’s dedicated Christmas designers and operators, who curated items from around the world to ensure guests experienced that special ‘wow’ factor from every room.

The third gold award was for maintenance services at the Trafford Centre in Manchester where the team care for over 250 different plants and trees over 207,000 square feet in one of the UK’s busiest shopping centres.

Emily Vernon, Managing Director at phs Greenleaf, said: “We are incredibly proud of our team. They work very hard to provide our customers with the best possible designs, installs and servicing and it’s wonderful to see that recognised with these fantastic award wins. 2020 was a difficult year for everyone so it’s great to see the positives being celebrated.”

phs Greenleaf took silver awards in the design and installation category for its work with Sodexo, planting in three large government buildings in difficult circumstances, and for its work at Barton Square, an extension to the Trafford Centre, ensuring the design carefully matched and complimented the original shopping centre, including 36 large interior palm trees.

phs Greenleaf has been providing planting and landscaping services to businesses for over 25 years, including indoor and outdoor plants, artificial and live planting, living walls, grounds maintenance and Christmas trees and decorations.

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#GroundsWeek polling reveals positive impact

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#GroundsWeek polling reveals positive impact: Following the first-ever #GroundsWeek (1-7 March 2021), an awareness campaign for the turf-care sector launched by the Grounds Management Association (GMA), polling reveals its positive impact for the future of groundscare. Following the campaign, the not-for-profit membership organisation measured results to inform future activities.

In a survey issued to professional and volunteer groundspeople, as well as industry suppliers, 79% of respondents stated that the week had helped celebrate the sector, fulfilling one the initial aims of the campaign; to mark the challenging year brought on by the pandemic.

#GroundsWeek polling reveals positive impact

#GroundsWeek polling reveals positive impact

Over 61% of respondents said that #GroundsWeek helped educate them on the turf-care sector and the tasks involved in grounds maintenance. These individuals agreed that they had learned something new and felt better-connected as a result of the week taking place.

#GroundsWeek also peaked interest in volunteering with 76% agreeing that the week raised awareness of the sector and 50% responding that they had got involved during the week itself. Individuals also shared their availability across social media for volunteering opportunities.

Scott Tingley, Head Groundsman at Watford FC, following #GroundsWeek, said:

“GroundsWeek enabled myself and so many others to promote our industry. We are in a very fortunate position at top level football clubs, but the industry is so much more than that. It’s important the industry is recognised at all levels to ensure we are attracting the next generation, and the Grounds Management Association has given us the platform to demonstrate that with their #GroundsWeek initiative.”

Overall, 29 million people were reached by #GroundsWeek content across social media and through media coverage, with over 6,000 positively engaging with #GroundsWeek content on social media platforms.

Geoff Webb, CEO of the GMA, commented:

“We were thrilled with the response and impact of this year’s #GroundsWeek campaign. It surpassed expectations and I was overwhelmed with the level of interaction online – especially seeing potential volunteers reaching out to grounds staff to find out how they could get involved.

“We are committed to helping further educate the wider public, and those who rely on the surfaces that grounds staff maintain, through #GroundsWeek 2022 to keep our industry thriving.”

The GMA has confirmed that #GroundsWeek will be happening once again next year from 28th February – 6th March 2022. So far confirmed as sponsors for next year’s event are; Agrigem Ltd (Nutrigow), British Sugar Topsoil, Infinicut, Premier Pitches, Kubota, SIS-Grass, John Deere Ltd, Redexim, Origin Amenity Solutions, Husqvana, and idverde.

For brands looking to support the campaign, please contact communications@thegma.org.uk

For further information about this year’s #GroundsWeek, visit: www.thegma.org.uk/groundsweek

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Equestrian excellence from Mansfield Sand

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Equestrian excellence from Mansfield Sand: SE Hill, a highly regarded company which specialises in the design and construction of equestrian manege facilities, has revealed why it has relied on Mansfield Sand products for over fifteen years.

Over the years SE Hill has built a reputation of a company that can deliver a professional and reliable service. As well as providing drainage, access tracks, earthworks and landscaping and numerous other constructions works, the company also specialises in equestrian facilities – and that is where Mansfield Sand comes in.

Equestrian excellence from Mansfield Sand

Equestrian excellence from Mansfield Sand

“We’ve been working with Mansfield Sand and have been using their products for over fifteen years,” said Managing Director Steve Hill. “I wouldn’t dream of using anyone else.”

Steve relies on Fibresand and Equestrian Silica Sand for his various manege projects.

Fibresand is a simple but highly effective concept, of using synthetic fibres to stabilise a silica sand in order to produce a free draining yet relatively firm, sure footing surface.

The rot proof, polypropylene fibres stabilise the silica sand by providing a high degree of resistance to sand particle movement when the surface is subjected to compressive and/or shear forces from the horses’ hooves.

Fibresand is a cost effective, durable and resistant surface which works as an excellent base layer that is free draining with a sure footing.

Alternatively, Equestrian Silica Sand provides an excellent riding surface which is free draining. Ideally suited as a base sand, it is recommended that the Equestrian Silica be incorporated into a fibre stabilising product to provide structure and further stability.

Commenting on SE Hill’s use of Mansfield Sand products, Louise Barrington-Earp, Equestrian and Landscaping Sales Representative, said:

“Steve finds the Equestrian Silica Sand as a very good sub-base which he then blends a stabilising fibre into.

“The Fibresand, on the other-hand, comes pre-mixed so it means contractors can apply the product immediately with no on-site mixing.

“Overall, Mansfield Sand is delighted and proud to have SE Hill as a customer. We have built a very good business relationship over the years and Steve’s workmanship is second-to-none.”

Steve was equally complimentary: “There is a reason I have been using Mansfield Sand for so long,” he said. “The products are of great quality and are always consistent; the haulage aspect is fantastic and obtaining quotations from Louise is a professional and speedy process.

“From products to service, I put my trust in Mansfield Sand.”

For more information visit www.mansfield-sand.co.uk

You can also follow the company on Twitter – @MansfieldSand and Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/MansfieldSandSportSurfaces/

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