Green-tech Launches Arbortec Boots Competition

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Green-tech Launches Arbortec Boots Competition: Tree planting season has begun, and Green-tech is fully stocked and ready to support landscapers, contractors, foresters, and local authorities with everything they need to get trees in the ground this winter.

To mark the start of this year’s season, Green-tech has launched a competition offering the chance for four people to win a pair of premium Arbortec boots worth over £200. One winner will be drawn each month from November 2025 until February 2026.

Green-tech Launches Arbortec Boots Competition

Green-tech Launches Arbortec Boots Competition

From tree shelters and stakes, to forestry fertilisers and soil improvers, fencing to ground protection, Green-tech offers a vast array of products for all your projects. For those seeking sustainable options, the company offers a comprehensive range of biodegradable tree protection.

As the UK’s leading supplier of tree planting materials and the largest distributor of Tubex and Rainbow products, Green-tech helps protect and establish around 10 million trees every year. Part of this support includes Woodland Grow Natural Fertiliser, developed through extensive scientific research into soil biology. Using native woodland fungal communities and soil microbes it improves soil health and supports healthy root development, helping newly planted trees establish successfully, even in challenging soils.

Entering is simple. Teams on the ground this season are invited to share a photo of their planting efforts, this can be on-site unloading for the job, mid-planting, a finished project or even in the office co-ordinating the teams in the field. Entries can be submitted via social media by tagging Green-tech or by emailing your photos to marketing@green-tech.co.uk. All submissions are automatically entered into the monthly draw.

Richard Gill, Sales Director at Green-tech, said, “Tree planting season is one of our busiest and most rewarding times of the year. Our teams work hard to make sure customers have access to the right products, whether that’s trusted conventional materials or the latest biodegradable solutions. This competition is a fun way to celebrate the season and recognise the people who are making a real difference on the ground.”

Green-tech’s support extends beyond supplying materials. With expert advice, technical guidance, and sustainable solutions, the company continues to help deliver greener landscapes across the UK.

For more information on the Arbortec Boots competition and to see the full range of tree planting products, visit www.green-tech.co.uk.

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John Deere to host Military Hiring Programme careers event

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John Deere to host Military Hiring Programme careers event: John Deere will run a free online Military Hiring Programme event on Wednesday 3 December to help service leavers understand how their skills transfer into careers working with advanced agricultural and turf machinery.

The virtual session will give attendees a clear view of the roles available across the UK and Ireland dealer network, the training pathway, and the support on offer to those leaving the forces.

John Deere to host Military Hiring Programme careers event

John Deere to host Military Hiring Programme careers event

It follows strong interest in John Deere’s resettlement pathway – launched in the UK in 2023 – which continues to bring ex-military talent into its dealership teams.

Allan Cochran, Training Centre Manager at John Deere, will outline how the programme works and what candidates can expect once they start their transition into civilian employment.

“We know the skills, discipline and problem-solving experience found in the armed forces match perfectly with our technician and support roles,” said Allan. “This is a chance to hear directly from our team and speak with people who have already made the move. Service leavers bring huge value to our dealers and we will continue to invest in pathways that help them succeed.”

Former Royal Navy engineer Graham Walker will share his journey. His 24 years in service were mostly spent aboard nuclear submarines. Graham then used his background, technical versatility, and leadership experience to move into a senior role at John Deere dealer Smallridge Bros.

On board the submarine, with no access to spare parts, Graham and his team often had to manufacture components from raw materials to keep critical systems running. He became skilled in hydraulics, gas and atmosphere management, propulsion, and nuclear engineering — all under pressure and in confined conditions.

Since following the Military Hiring Programme pathway, Graham has now taken the role of Service Manager at Smallridge’s Callington depot in Cornwall.

“Attending an event like this is online introduction to the programme is thoroughly worthwhile,” said Graham. “You understand the scale of the opportunity and hear first-hand from people who have already made the move. The support is there from day one and the programme helps you map out your next steps.”

The online event will also feature Chris Giles from Tallis Amos Group’s Leominster depot, who previously served in the forces and has since built a successful career in the dealership network.

James Evans, Division Customer Support Manager for John Deere, will explain how the business supports ex-forces staff as they move into the workshop and wider dealership environment.

Earlier this year, John Deere was named in the 50 Great British Employers of Veterans 2025 list, and has signed the Armed Forces Covenant.

The Military Hiring Programme connects service leavers with a dedicated mentor, provides free training and supports the transition into full-time roles with John Deere dealers.

The online event starts at 7pm on 3 December. Registration is open now at https://JDMHP.eventbrite.co.uk.

Those unable to attend will have the chance to watch a recording afterwards, and can apply to the Military Hiring Programme at any time by visiting www.deere.com/JDMHP.

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FSI Stump Cutters introduce FSI B23

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FSI Stump Cutters introduce FSI B23: FSI Stump Cutters proudly introduces the FSI B23, the successor to the popular FSI B22. Combining familiar design elements from both the FSI B21 and FSI B22, the B23 is engineered for everyday professional work by arborists, landscapers, contractors, and hire companies.

With the FSI B23, you get to choose between a 14hp Kohler engine or an 11hp Honda engine, while enjoying the benefits of hydraulic wheel drive. The B23 combines power and user-friendliness with well-known and well-loved design features to make stump grinding easy and efficient.

FSI Stump Cutters introduce FSI B23

FSI Stump Cutters introduce FSI B23

New features of FSI B23:

  • Auto-Sweep Release: Automatically releases the sweep lock when the wheel brakes are applied, allowing you to reposition the machine quickly and safely at the stump.
  • Closed Bearing on Cutterwheel Housing: Pre-greased and sealed from the factory for over 1,000 hours of operation, eliminating daily greasing and reducing maintenance concerns.
  • Safety Bar: Stops the machine when released for increased operator safety.

Other new features also include a larger sweep for increased cutting range, recoil start of the engine, and a document tube and hour meter now included as standard.

“With FSI B23, we’ve refined what already worked well,” says Launy Luckmann, Development Engineer at FSI. “It’s a compact, reliable machine designed for professionals who want straightforward performance — with the comfort and simplicity that FSI is known for.”

The FSI B23 reflects Danish engineering at its best — simple, robust, and made to perform day after day with minimal maintenance. For more information and technical specifications, visit www.fsi-stumpcutters.com/product/engine/fsi-b23/

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See what’s new at SALTEX 2025

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See what’s new at SALTEX 2025: Europe’s cutting-edge grounds management show, SALTEX, is once again proving why it’s the go-to show for innovation, as a host of top industry brands prepare to launch their latest products and services exclusively at this year’s event.

Taking place at the NEC Birmingham on 12-13 November, SALTEX will offer visitors an exclusive first look at the latest innovations transforming the future of grounds management. From cutting-edge technologies to smart solutions, the show floor will be alive with fresh thinking and dynamic ideas – each designed to elevate performance across every aspect of grounds management.

See what's new at SALTEX 2025

See what’s new at SALTEX 2025

“SALTEX has always been where the industry comes to see what’s next,” said Sarah Hunter, Head of Events at the GMA. “It’s the launchpad for innovation and manufacturers choose SALTEX to debut their most exciting products because they know this is where the people who use them every day come to see them.

“For visitors, it’s a unique opportunity to discover the latest technology and get hands-on with solutions that are shaping the future of grounds management. Year after year, SALTEX proves why it’s the must-attend event for grounds people who want to stay ahead of the curve.”

This year’s exhibitors are bringing a wave of new product developments and exclusive unveilings, including:

AriensCo (C056) – Launching the AS 920 ESherpa 2WD alongside the AS 990 Tahr RC and Ariens Summit Pro Series, offering enhanced performance and operator comfort.

Campey Turf Care Systems (C050) – Unveiling the new lightweight Imants RECYCLINGDRESSER® 1.3, engineered to reduce labour and material costs by recycling and redistributing existing soil across the playing surface.

Raw Stadia (C110) – Demonstrating a new software solution linking surface data with performance decisions, including a live demo and video showcase of its real-world applications.

GreenBest (A060) – Expanding its SmartLawn range with SmartLawn FreshStart Lawn Seed, SmartLawn Hand Spreader and SmartLawn ProCast 20 Push Spreader, built for smarter, greener turf management.

Allett Ltd (B130) – Revealing the LEDMASTER UVC 100, designed for professional mowers and engineered for professional mowers. It is completely autonomous and functions independently of the mower, thanks to its own powerful battery, based on the reliable Metabo LiHD technology.

ISEKI (C100) – Launching the all-new Raymo remote-controlled range, delivering the first of the new GPS Models on show equipped with the 48” Craft Deck a 150Ah battery and a full range of Raymo accessories.

Rhenac (E038) – Presenting the RML 400 lighting product featuring Rhenac’s largest and most advanced mobile lighting system, designed to deliver full-spectrum LED light across 400 m² of turf.

STIGA (G130) – Unveiling a suite of next-generation mowing solutions including the AXL, a Fflly autonomous mower delivering AI-powered precision for large and complex turf areas. ePark Pro – STIGA’s first fully electric front mower, combining zero-emissions with high performance for noise-sensitive and urban environments and Vista Robots – autonomous robotic mowers featuring AI-powered camera recognition, GPS RTK guidance and STIGA’s unique AGS technology.

SMG Machines (A110) – Introducing the TurfBoy TB1 Eco DC, powered by a powerful, emission-free 48 V electric motor with 1,000 kW, which also guarantees low-noise operation at just 99.5 dB.

Net World Sports (H110) – Taking visitors behind the scenes of its FIFA-accredited equipment testing process and showcasing how FORZA goals are engineered to perform at elite level.

Turfcoach (D125) – Launching a brand-new mobile app that brings together all Turf IQ features in one user-friendly platform.

Chappell Enterprises UK (F115) – Introducing new advertising and recruitment services to better connect employers and professionals in the grounds sector.

Plus many more exhibitors who will be showcasing innovative solutions across the show floor, making SALTEX the must-attend event for discovering what’s new and what’s next in the world of grounds management.

Register for FREE and be in with a chance of winning a Cramer Tools Lawn Mower, complete with charger and battery worth £2,240!

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Cheslett rolls out Relief Greenkeeper service

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Cheslett rolls out Relief Greenkeeper service: After proving the validity of his concept by using it to manage his own working life, Duncan Cheslett, for decades a successful self-employed cabinet market, who turned to greenkeeping in the immediate aftermath of Covid, is expanding his business to provide freelance greenkeeping support for clubs across the UK.

After retiring from his furniture business of several decades, Cheslett, a keen golfer, turned to greenkeeping as a way of combining his love of golf, and in particular golf architecture, with earning a living. “I worked at several courses around the Manchester area, and I loved it, but when you have worked for yourself all your life, your mind is always turning over business ideas,” he explains. He conceived The Relief Greenkeeper concept initially as a way of being able to work part-time while expanding his horizons and working on a variety of courses that interested him.

Cheslett rolls out Relief Greenkeeper service

Cheslett rolls out Relief Greenkeeper service

Cheslett set up The Relief Greenkeeper as an umbrella under which he could market his services, on a freelance basis, to courses that might need an extra pair of hands for a few days from time to time, perhaps to cover sick leave, or to provide more labour at peak times. And he found that hard-pressed course managers loved the idea.

“Because I was self-employed, I could go and work for a club for a few days, and they would not have to incur any of the many costs that arise when you have people on staff,” Cheslett says. “No National Insurance, pension contributions or the like. I could charge an hourly rate that was  good for me, but was much cheaper for the club than paying a member of staff. And from my own point of view, working on a variety of courses was a great way to keep work interesting, and helped me make friends and contacts across the golf industry in the North-West.” He has worked on over 20 courses and events, including Wallasey for the English Amateur, St Anne’s Old Links,  and Hesketh in Southport. He also worked at Royal Portrush for the Open.

Cheslett realised that the Relief Greenkeeper concept had the potential to do much more than manage his own working life. “At every course, people would ask me about what I was doing, and express interest in doing the same – and nervousness about leaving a staff job and having to find work,” he says. “And everywhere I went, course managers told me that they would use a service like this. It was clear to me that some sort of agency that could connect greenkeepers and clubs would be a good thing for both parties.” So he took  his first additional freelance greenkeepers onto his books, and began placing them with golf clubs requiring extra short-term staff.

“I’ve been able to supply my greenkeepers with steady work, saving them the time and stress of continually having to find and negotiate their own contracts, and generally earning them a higher rate of pay than they would have received working at their former course,” he says.

Naturally, to date operations have focused on Cheslett’s home region, but now he has decided to roll the service out nationwide. “I know that the idea is sound, and there’s no reason that greenkeepers and clubs in all parts of the UK won’t find it as useful as those in the North-West do,” he says. This expansion has already started, with Relief Greenkeepers at work in Lincolnshire, the West Coast of Ireland, Aberdeenshire, and the Central Belt of Scotland. And Cheslett says that he is ready to take on more. “I constantly have clubs calling me, saying they’ve heard about my service, and can I provide them with someone,” he says. “If I had more greenkeepers on my books, obviously I could and would. So if any experienced greenkeepers fancy going freelance, they should email me at duncan@thereliefgreenkeeper.co.uk, via our website www.thereliefgreenkeeper.co.uk, or call me on 07720 285376. Any clubs who would like to have reliable, experienced freelance greenkeeping resource for between £23 and £30 an hour should do the same.”

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