Expansion of area for George Browns Ltd

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Expansion of area for George Browns Ltd: In a strategic re-shuffle of their partner network, Redexim are pleased to announce an expansion in the coverage area for George Browns Ltd. Effective immediately, the team will be responsible for the sales, service and support of the Redexim range to customers across the IP postcode region.

Operating out of five depots across Befordshire, Buckinghamshire, Essex, Northamptonshire and Oxfordshire, George Browns Ltd are one of the UK’s largest agricultural and groundcare dealerships, representing many of the industry’s leading machinery franchises. Long-standing partners and distributors of the full Redexim range of natural and artificial equipment, this announcement extends the reach and support of the George Browns technical team to customers old and new in the IP area.

Expansion of area for George Browns Ltd

Expansion of area for George Browns Ltd

Commenting on behalf of George Browns Ltd, Group Groundcare Sales Manager Tim Mason said, “George Browns have represented Redexim (originally Charterhouse Turf Machinery) since the 1980’s – renowned for their industry leading equipment and have developed into a key brand for our business. Redexim have some exciting new additions to their portfolio over the coming months, so we’re excited to represent another brilliant brand for Suffolk/IP.”

Redexim UK Commercial Director Paul Langford added, “In George Browns we have a knowledgeable, motivated and wide-reaching partner who have long demonstrated their enthusiasm and professionalism with the Redexim range. We are delighted to have strengthened our partnership with them and are confident that they will give customers the service needed as we continue to innovate and move forwards.”

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EGO takes battery charging to the next level

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EGO takes battery charging to the next level: Leading battery-powered outdoor power equipment specialist, EGO Power Plus, has launched a trailblazing new charging system to support landscaping and groundscare professionals.

EGO recently added to the PRO X series of hard-wearing and powerful tools for professionals within its product portfolio, including a chainsaw, hedge trimmers, brush cutters, line trimmers and mowers. It has also developed a next-generation battery charging solution to ensure that these robust products always have the power they need to work throughout the day.

EGO takes battery charging to the next level

EGO takes battery charging to the next level

Andrew Frohock, Product Manager at EGO, said: “Groundscare, gardening and facilities management professionals need complete confidence that their battery-powered tools can succeed at the longest and toughest tasks. Using our unique position as a pioneer in all-electric outdoor equipment, we have developed a new system that gives users incredible flexibility, whether that is charging high numbers of batteries overnight, or finding solutions for charging portable batteries out in the field.”

EGO’s PGX™ Professional Charging system is a flexible charging solution that scales to meet the specific needs of any business. The system is powered by the PGX1600E-H 1600W Charging Hub, which runs off any standard electrical outlet, meaning no electrical infrastructure upgrade is required.

A modular system, PGX allows for each user to adapt it to their specific power needs. The PGX1600H Hub connects to any combination of up to 30 PGX3000D 3-Port Docks, or PGX1400PB Power Banks (available separately), to provide charging power to 90 battery ports. The system manages charging intelligently, meaning all batteries can be charged without the need for manual intervention. The charging power means that the PGX system can effectively charge up to 70 EGO 56V ARC Lithium batteries, or up to 250Ah of battery capacity overnight (in 12hrs).

The 1600W Hub and PGX3000D 3-Port Docks securely mount to the wall via steel-reinforced screw through-holes and are both E-Track-compatible via the PGX™ Commercial Charging E-Track Mounting Kit (available separately) unlocking the potential for in-vehicle charging for all EGO batteries, via a single power connection. Lockable battery ports provide peace of mind that the platform remains safe on the jobsite while integrated connectivity allows users to monitor and control when they charge and provides peace of mind that power will be available when it is needed.

When disconnected from the PGX Hub, the PGX1400PB is a portable Power Bank that allows users to transport their energy to the jobsite, and recharge their portable batteries, wherever and whenever they need to. With the energy stored in the new EGO HC2240T 40Ah Battery, from EGO’s new High-Capacity platform, the Power Bank utilises high-efficiency DC: DC charging to pass this power to 2 700W charging ports, compatible with all EGO 56V ARC Lithium batteries, for fast on site, off-grid charging. Both are available from Summer 2024.

“Creating a new charging system around our existing battery technology gives gardening and groundscare professionals the configurability they need. Now they have the tools, and the battery platform to comfortably keep them working all day.”

For more information on the new PRO X series from EGO, visit; www.egopowerplus.co.uk.

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Additions to Lantra Board of Trustees

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Additions to Lantra Board of Trustees: Lantra are pleased to announce that Professor John Moverley OBE and Beth Brook have joined the Board of Trustees from May 2024. Their knowledge and experience of the land-based and environment sector will be a valuable addition to the Lantra Board.

Professor John Moverley OBE is formerly the Chief Executive and Principal of Myerscough College. He joins the Board following his chairing role at the UK Amenity Forum and advisory positions at the Severn & Wye Flood and Costal Committee, and the West Midlands Advisory Committee to the Forestry Commission, where he served as Chair.

Additions to Lantra Board of Trustees

Additions to Lantra Board of Trustees

John is a leading voice on matters relating to sustainable practice in the amenity industry. He is also an elected Fellow of the Royal Agricultural Societies and holds honorary Fellowships from the University of Central Lancashire, and Myerscough College. John was honoured with an OBE in 2004 for services to education.

Commenting on the appointment, Chair of Lantra, Dr David Llewellyn said: “I’m really pleased that John has joined the Board of Trustees. His expertise and experience will no doubt be of significant value to Lantra, helping to drive the organisation forward.”

Also commenting on the appointment, Lantra CEO, Marcus Potter, said: “John’s standing in the sector is a real asset to Lantra. I am sure his diversity of experience will help steer our strategic direction.”

Beth Brook is an active advocate for skills development. As the former CEO of the

Heart of England Forest, she led the organisation to be one of the first to take on new forestry apprentices, as well as implementing a paid internship in forestry. She also sits on the Board of the Youth Environmental Service, a national organisation that is promoting and facilitating environmental careers for young people.

Beginning her career on a pig farm, Beth is a qualified ecologist and has held executive roles at Warwickshire Wildlife Trust, the Council for Learning Outside the Classroom, and Fair Train. Beth is a reasoned voice on skills development, training and professional development within forestry and arboriculture.

Chair of Lantra, Dr David Llewellyn, commented on the appointment of Beth, saying: “I’m delighted that Beth has joined the Lantra Board. Her knowledge, experience, and advocacy will be a real benefit to Lantra and to the Board. I am looking forward to working with Beth over the next few years.”

Lantra’s CEO, Marcus Potter, added: “Beth’s passion for training and skills is in strong alignment with Lantra’s mission and will be greatly welcomed to Lantra’s Board.”

Following the appointment of Professor John Moverley and Beth Brook, two Trustees will be standing down from the Board. Jane Cragie and Richard Clarke will be leaving after eight years and six years, respectively.

Lantra Chair, David Llewellyn commented on the departure of Richard and Jane: “It has been a pleasure to work with both Richard and Jane during their time on the Board. I want to take this opportunity to thank them for all their hard work and commitment in supporting Lantra to be the organisation it is today.

“I wish them both the very best with their future endeavours, and again thank them for their service to Lantra.”

These changes to the Lantra Board take effect from the end of May 2024.

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P Tuckwell acquires Tomlinson Groundcare

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P Tuckwell acquires Tomlinson Groundcare: P Tuckwell Ltd, the John Deere dealer across the South East and East of England, has completed the acquisition of Tomlinson Groundcare Ltd. 

The acquisition, which has been agreed by respective owners James Tuckwell and the Tomlinson family, will see all employees and the existing branch location at Buxhall, near Stowmarket, retained.

P Tuckwell acquires Tomlinson Groundcare

P Tuckwell acquires Tomlinson Groundcare

The full terms of the agreement are not being disclosed but this acquisition has the full support and approval of John Deere Ltd.

Tomlinson Groundcare was founded by Robert Tomlinson in 1991. Operating from the family smallholding, Robert and his team grew the business moving into a purpose-built workshop in 2005 and a new, large showroom in 2009. Sadly, Robert passed away in 2019 but the Tomlinson Groundcare team, headed up by Adrian Brown, has continued to grow and develop its turf care business throughout much of Suffolk.

Tuckwells was established in 1954 and have been John Deere dealers since 1965. Operating from ten locations across Suffolk, Essex, Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire, Kent, East Sussex and Surrey the business employs over 300 people. In addition, the business runs Tuckwell Farms, a 1500-acre working farm in Suffolk. Tuckwells was one of the first dealers in the UK to take on the John Deere turf franchise.

“Adrian and his team have continued Robert’s ethos and passion for forging long-lasting relationships with private domestic and professional turf customers,” says James Tuckwell. “They have built a strong turf business throughout Suffolk since the company began in 1991. We are excited to be given this opportunity to expand our business and to build on their success. We welcome the Tomlinson Groundcare team to the Tuckwells family and look forward to working together with them and their customers.”

Chris Meacock, John Deere Division Sales Manager for Golf and Turf, said: “I would like to congratulate Adrian and his team for the outstanding job they have done in supporting and growing the John Deere turf care brand in Suffolk since becoming a dealer nearly 33 years ago.

“We are delighted that they have reached this agreement with Tuckwells, which ensures the continuity of the Tomlinson Groundcare team and the dealership outlet within the John Deere network. Both businesses have closely aligned values based on extensive industry experience and outstanding customer service.”

Adrian added: “The team at Tomlinson Groundcare is pleased that a deal has been reached between us and Tuckwells. We have known each other for many years and I am confident that the business is in safe hands and is well placed to continue its development and growth. I look forward to working with James Tuckwell and his team as we integrate Tomlinson Groundcare into the Tuckwell family and begin this new and exciting chapter.”

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Top TIMBERSPORTS® athletes compete for top spot

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Top TIMBERSPORTS® athletes compete for top spot: TIMBERSPORTS® is back with a bang at the Royal Three Counties Show, Malvern from 14-16 June 2024. Three days of action-packed competition will see Britain’s top athletes compete against each other for the British crown, as well as the opportunity to represent their country at world level. 

Competition for places in the British Pro Championship taking place on Saturday 15 June is so high that the first ever qualifier will take place the Friday before. The top six athletes from 2023’s Championship have earned automatic qualification, whilst the remaining athletes from last year’s competition will go head-to-head with newcomers to decide who will take the final spots in the main event. The action doesn’t stop there with 12 rookies (athletes under 25) competing in the British Rookie Championship and 11 women vying for victory in the British Women’s Championship on Sunday 16 June.

Top TIMBERSPORTS® athletes compete for top spot

Top TIMBERSPORTS® athletes compete for top spot

Fresh from finishing sixth at the World Rookie Championship in Milan, Jack Morris will be the one to beat in the Rookie Championship. Inspired by his older brother, Morris first competed in TIMBERSPORTS® in 2019 and his laser focus on fitness and training has seen him rise to the top of the British rookie ranks, where he finished first in 2022 and 2023. This will be Morris’s last year competing as a rookie as he moves up to the Pro level in 2025, and he’s aiming to finish on a high, but there will be plenty of other rookies with their eye on the podium so complacency is not an option.

In the British Women’s Championship, it’s all to play for this year, with previous champions Justine Narusa (2023 winner) and Zoe Penlington (2022 winner) returning as well as some exciting new talent looking to shake things up.  Libby Arrowsmith, the youngest competitor at just 17, has been focussed on a dedicated training regime and will be looking to better her third-place finish in 2023, whilst newcomer Rachel Ferrington, who has competed in many sports including jousting, is also looking to make her mark.

The Pro Championship will be another hard-fought battle, but Glen Penlington will be hoping to hold off his rivals to make it a hat-trick of national titles, after he won in 2022 and 2023. But 2014 champion Rob Chatley is also eyeing the top prize. Both athletes are GB TIMBERSPORTS® trainers and share their expertise with the less-experienced athletes at regular training camps throughout the year, but once the competition starts it’s every man for himself, and they will both be looking to get maximum points in all six of the competition disciplines. Between them, they hold three of the six national records, so the competition will definitely be fierce, and is sure to deliver edge-of-your-seat action.

The British Championship takes place from 14- 16 June at the Royal Three Counties Show in Malvern. Tickets are available from the show website. The Pro, Women’s and Rookie Championships will also be livestreamed via the STIHL TIMBERSPORTS® YouTube channel.

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