St Andrews Links continues to choose Club Car

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St Andrews Links continues to choose Club Car: Club Car®, global industry-leading manufacturer of small-wheel, zero-emissions electric vehicles, has extended its long-term relationship with the world’s most iconic golf venue after delivering a new fleet to St Andrews Links.

The prestigious Scottish venue, where golf has been played for more than 600 years, has received 32 new golf and utility vehicles to complement the 52-strong fleet for the operation of its seven public courses, the most famous of which is the Old Course, a 30-time host venue of The Open.

St Andrews Links continues to choose Club Car

St Andrews Links continues to choose Club Car

WATCH: Club Car at St Andrews Links

John Grant, Director of Golf at St Andrews Links Trust, said: “We pride ourselves on working with the very best, and since Club Car became an official supplier in 2016 they have provided the highest quality of vehicles and service support.

“The cars are a crucial part of our operation, allowing our teams to do their jobs efficiently and giving golfers an enjoyable and memorable experience.”

Club Car’s innovative capabilities provide a range of benefits to the St Andrews Links team. While the award-winning golf vehicles transport golfers safely and comfortably around the links, the versatile utility vehicles are used by the course ranger team as well as media staff, who regularly ferry VIPs and equipment around the site.

A combination of 6- and 8-seater transporter models are also vital for transporting golfers between the Links Clubhouse and the first tee of the Old Course.

The cars are fitted with Club Car’s Connected technology, which enables the teams to monitor the condition of the fleet, maintain course boundaries and communicate directly with the vehicles.

In addition, the Visage GPS system provides many enhancements to the golfer experience including exact yardages and action zones which enable the safe negotiation of many of the features on these links courses.

Andy Bourke, Club Car Regional Manager for UK, Ireland and Scandinavia, said: “We have developed a strong relationship with St Andrews Links over the last eight years and it has been a pleasure to provide a first-class service.

“It is the largest public golf complex in Europe, and we are proud that our unmatched products and technology help the team deliver a unique and memorable experience to thousands of golfers each year.”

Established in 1974, St Andrews Links Trust oversees the management and maintenance of the Links courses at St Andrews – the Old Course, New Course, Jubilee Course, Eden Course, Strathtyrum Course, Balgove Course and The Castle Course – with more than 250,000 rounds played over them every year.

For more information on Club Car visit: www.clubcar.com

For more information on St Andrews Links visit: http://www.standrews.com

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Get your course back into play

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Get your course back into play: Greenkeepers must battle with a wide variety of challenges when it comes to turf health, and aeration is no different.

To simplify this important task, Toro’s high-quality tines were designed to make aeration remarkably easy with durable parts that maximise performance. Available only through Reesink Turfcare, its branches and approved dealer and service centres, now is the time to ensure your aeration equipment is ready.

During the hot summer season, soil can become dry and compact, reducing pore space that conveys water, oxygen and vital nutrients to your turf. Unfortunately, this phenomenon can degrade grass quality even on healthy and resilient golf courses.

Get your course back into play

Get your course back into play

While punching holes in the turf to increase pore space (aeration) addresses soil compaction and helps you prepare for autumn, to ensure optimal results you need high-quality tines that won’t let you down. And when it comes to quality it doesn’t get better than Toro’s Titan tines, with over 150 to choose from.

Whether you’re coring, slicing, spiking, or using hollow, solid or deep tines, the Titan range allows you to meet all of your aeration needs.

These tines aren’t just designed for Toro machines – they can also be adapted to fit equipment from most manufacturers thanks to special conversion sleeves. This way, Toro tines can be used with both current and older aerator models by converting a 9.5mm mount to a 12.7mm or 15.9mm mount.

Authentic Toro tines are engineered for exceptional performance and durability. They ensure uniform aeration depth, creating clean holes that enhance aeration effectiveness and lead to a faster return to play.

According to Michael Hampton, Purchasing & Sales Processing Manager at Reesink UK, “Toro’s genuine tines aren’t just versatile tools that will increase your productivity from the start – they can deliver significant savings in the long term, too. Thanks to their durable design, Toro Titan tines last longer and minimise costly downtime.”

“On the other hand, using low-quality tines can create new challenges and make aeration a time-consuming process,” he continues. “Imagine having to frequently replace broken tines, unclog cores and repair post-aeration damage. Instead of simplifying your operations, your problems are multiplied.”

With a lifespan of up to four times longer than other tines, Toro Titan’s range prevents these headaches, reducing the need for frequent replacements and adding certainty to your aeration process. Moreover, the durable tungsten carbide tips consistently deliver precise holes that promote quicker turf recovery and simplify de-compaction.

When you’re using original Toro machines, genuine parts ensure maximum performance and take the guesswork out of turfcare – there’s no need to wonder if the new part will work. You can also count on Toro’s commitment to user safety through extensive testing and swift parts delivery to your doorstep whenever you need it.

Want to learn more about the benefits of using original Toro tines? Discover how Reesink Turfcare and Toro can support your aeration initiatives by calling 01480 226800, emailing info@reesinkturfcare.co.uk or visiting reesinkturfcare.co.uk.

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SALTEX confirm Learning LIVE schedule

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SALTEX confirm Learning LIVE schedule: Full Learning LIVE schedule confirmed boasting a distinguished roster of speakers from UEFA, Wembley Stadium, Wimbledon, Edgbaston, and more.

SALTEX is pleased to unveil the complete lineup for its highly anticipated Learning LIVE programme, featuring over 20 industry pioneers, technical specialists, and experts across three different stages. It’s the largest and most extensive free live educational event in the sector, providing an unparalleled opportunity for attendees to gain insights from the best in the business.

SALTEX confirm Learning LIVE schedule

SALTEX confirm Learning LIVE schedule

On day one, the Main Stage will feature a not-to-be-missed panel discussion with industry giants including Karl Standley (Wembley Stadium), Neil Stubley (All England Lawn Tennis Club), Jim Buttar (Twickenham Stadium), and Gary Barwell (Edgbaston Stadium), who will tackle the topic of Sustainable Solutions.

The day continues with a critical conversation on ‘How to Attract Young People into The Industry’ with members of the GMA NextGen and wraps up with an insightful session on ‘Maintenance of 3G Artificial Turf – Effective Practice and the Evidence’ led by Professor Paul Fleming from Loughborough University.

On day two, the Main Stage will host Phil Sharples (Caspian Sport & Landscape), Vicente Alpuente (Villarreal), Iker Orue (Real Sociedad) and Dean Gilesby (Naturalgrass) as they delve into ‘Dealing with Climate Change Challenges at Top International Football Venues’. Attendees will also gain valuable tips on ‘How to Keep Your Team Members Motivated’, before finishing with ‘The Tools and Methodology to Ensure Excellent Surfaces’, presented by Reece Watson (Raw Stadia) and Neil Rodger (STRI Group).

The Spotlight Stage promises to draw crowds with its engaging ‘Ask-the-Expert’ style forums. Day one begins with ‘Integrated Approaches to Leatherjacket & Chafer Grub Control’ featuring insights from Dr. Christian Spring (STRI Group) and Sean Loakes (Syngenta). Other must-see sessions include Colin Corline’s (SAPCA) exploration of ‘Artificial Grass Pitches – What the Future Looks Like’, Professor John Moverley OBE’s talk on ‘Principles & Practices of Sustainable Amenity Management’, and Dr. Minshad Ansari’s (Bionema) presentation on ‘The Benefits of Biofilms in Sustainable Turf Management’.

Day two on the Spotlight Stage starts with a Soil Health Clinic, where experts Alex Vickers (Turf Consultant), Andrew Turnbull (Central Pharma Biotechnica), Dr. John Dempsey, and Dr. Deb Cox will share their knowledge. Notable sessions also include Geoff Fenn’s (Origin Amenity Solutions) presentation on ‘Independent Turfgrass Research – The OAS’s Latest Results’, as well as a discussion on ‘Understanding Climate Effects on Turfgrass Management’ by Mark Hunt (Prodata Weather Systems) & Jim Dale (Meteorologist).

Brand-new for this year, the Community Sports Stage will put all its focus on community and grassroots sports. Day one opens with ‘What’s Available in Multi-Sport Facility Funding?’ presented by representatives from the ECB, RFU, RFL, and the Football Foundation. Other highlights include ‘Essential Planning for Pitch Improvement Projects’ by Alex Vickers, ‘Quality Surfaces on a Shoestring Budget’ by Tom Rowley (GMA), and ‘Grant Funding for Sport’ by Richard Twigg (4Grants Ltd).

On day two, Kelly Marie Clack (Origin Amenity Solutions) will lead with ‘An Introduction to Grass Seed and Fertiliser’, followed by Grounds Management Association (GMA) Regional Pitch Advisors’ session on ‘Effective Aeration and Decompaction’. The day and will finish with a valuable session on ‘How to Attract and Manage Club Volunteers’ led by Chris Hunter and Nasa Hussain (Bradford Park Avenue CC).

For more information about the SALTEX 2024 Learning LIVE programme, and to see the full schedule, please visit: https://www.saltex.org.uk/learning-live.

To register for SALTEX 2024, please visit: https://www.saltex.org.uk/

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Kubota fleet is key to maintenance operations

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Kubota fleet is key to maintenance operations: A fleet of equipment from Kubota is being entrusted with ambitious improvement plans across the surfaces at Hertfordshire’s Aldenham School.

With the assistance of a pair of RTV Utility vehicles, two ride-on mowers and three tractors from Kubota’s L-Series, Grounds & Gardens Supervisor Danny Wells is well-placed to continue the development of the highly historic sports facilities across the 110-acre site.

Kubota fleet is key to maintenance operations

Kubota fleet is key to maintenance operations

Regarded in the Good Schools Guide as ‘seriously sporty’, Aldenham School boasts the title of the earliest organised football club in the history of the game with records dating back to 1825. The game has come along way since then, as to have the facilities which Danny only recently took charge of in June 2024, though he’s certainly no stranger to Aldenham. “I worked here previously before taking up a ‘dream role’ at Arsenal FC’s Colney training complex for three and a half years. When an opportunity arose to bring everything I learned there back to Aldenham, it was one I couldn’t turn down” he explains.

Much of the Kubota equipment was already working hard at the school during Danny’s previous stint, and it’s this reliability and versatility – together with the fantastic back up support from local dealer George Browns Ltd – that sees the fleet expanding more in recent months. “Our tractors are the workhorses for the vast majority of operations we do here – whether that’s spraying feeds on the cricket outfields or hitched up with our scarifier, aerator or top dresser for mechanical maintenance on the fifteen winter sports pitches.”

Recently joining two Kubota L2-452 compact tractors in the shed is a cabless L1-382 fitted with flotation tyres. “While we’ve only had it a matter of weeks, this has already proven to be a great bit of kit!” Danny continues, “Our pitches are mainly clay-based so can lay very wet over winter. This capable yet lightweight tractor will enable us to still get implements on the ground without causing damage.”

“Everything we have from Kubota is well-built, intuitive to operate and versatile for all the various applications and environments we manage. Our RTV’s for example, one RTV-X1140 and one RTV-X1110, are reliable people and equipment movers. We can use these to tow hand tools and machines such as our woodchipper around, getting things exactly where they’re needed quickly and safely.”

Danny and his team of six also rely on their Kubota ride-on mowers for the upkeep and presentation of lawned areas. “Our F3890 from the Kubota F-Series of out-front rotary mowers is fantastic for cutting the banks around the site, as well as some of our more natively-managed areas which might only get one or two cuts a year. It poses no match for this machine!”

“I also have to mention the Kubota G21 mower, which has clocked up some serious hours. This is our go-to machine for mowing large areas such as the prep school lawn and the grass around our on-site chapel. Because of its manoeuvrability, this machine is also great for getting where our cylinder mowers can’t on the sports pitches. Because it collects, we’ll also use it in the autumn to remove not just grass clippings but leaves and other debris.”

He concludes, “My predecessor did a fantastic job at bringing the surfaces on and with the Kubota equipment at my disposal, I am confident I can continue this great work and lift the bar even higher.”

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Foamstream redefines weed control for DB Premier Solutions

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Foamstream redefines weed control for DB Premier Solutions: Foamstream by Weedingtech has been described as a ‘gamechanger’ in the world of weed control by contractors DB Premier Solutions. In fact, owner Darren Baldwin was so impressed with the versatility of the system, that his new venture revolves solely around his L12 unit – opening doors to customers in both the commercial and domestic markets.

With more than two decades of experience under his belt maintaining the world-leading sports surfaces at Tottenham Hotspur Football Club, Darren admits he seldom gets excited about new machinery – but that changed upon his discovery of Foamstream. “In the Premier League, sustainability is at the forefront of what we do. However, our pursuit of solutions that are more environmentally-friendly cannot be to the detriment of effectiveness or surface quality.” Darren continues, “Foamstream first dropped onto my radar when I saw it in action at another Premier League Club. We then hired a unit at Tottenham and I was sold. I liked the versatility of it and could see it had real mileage – it’s probably one of only a handful of innovations that have come along and really changed the market.”

Foamstream redefines weed control for DB Premier Solutions

Foamstream redefines weed control for DB Premier Solutions

“In wanting to pursue something different, and take life a little gentler, I purchased an L12 from Campey Turfcare Systems in November 2023 and established DB Premier Solutions in the new year. It’s proving itself day after day, gaining interest from new and retuning customers and now means I’m just as busy as ever!”

As the worlds leading herbicide-free weed control solution, Foamstream kills weeds, moss and algae using the precise application of hot water insulated by a specially-formulated, biodegradable and organic foam. Available in the UK via Campey Turfcare Systems, Foamstream targets unwanted vegetation as well as the surrounding spores, delivering control comparable to traditional chemical alternatives in a range of applications and environments.

“Its versatility means that one day I can be in a football club, treating weeds in areas that are environmentally sensitive that would have relied on labour-intensive hand-weeding as a previous method of control. The next, I might be in an equestrian facility working around stable blocks. Being safe to use around animals and pets makes Foamstream perfect for the domestic market, which has resulted in a wealth of new work with residential customers and council-owned facilities.”

He adds, “Being able to use the L12 as a commercial cleaning unit is just another string to its bow, along with being effective on moss – within two hours you’ll see a change in colour, making it easy then to brush out and remove. I’m genuinely excited for the coming months to just keep finding more and more things this system can do!”

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Green-tech helps The Point at Polzeath

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Green-tech helps The Point at Polzeath: The Point is a collection of self-catering holiday homes in the heart of picturesque Cornwall.  The family-run business includes The Point at Polzeath, where several timber-built cabins have been created which required green roofs to be installed to comply with planning regulations.

Wheelbarrow Landscapes provides professional landscaping and garden maintenance services throughout Cornwall. The company is renowned for excellence in landscaping and garden maintenance and was chosen to fulfill this challenging project.  A long-term customer of Green-tech, they turned to their sales advisor George Barton for advice and expertise in supplying green roof materials.

Green-tech helps The Point at Polzeath

Green-tech helps The Point at Polzeath

The primary challenge of this project was to source a solution that managed the weight limitations on the cabin roofs. Initially, the project envisioned using topsoil with wildflowers, but this was rendered unfeasible due to weight constraints.

After exploring available solutions, Wheelbarrow Landscapes opted for Green-tech’s proven roof garden solutions, which included Gt RoofDrain for drainage. This lightweight drainage layer enables the collection and storage of water whilst providing a continuous drainage layer across the roof structure. The core acts as a water reservoir for plant roots to access in dry periods.

Green-tree roof garden substrate was chosen for the planting scheme. It is a blend of lightweight aggregate and award-winning Green-tree topsoil, which is ideal for green roof construction projects, due to its weight, excellent water-holding capacity, optimum drainage properties and good levels of aeration.

Instead of wildflowers or a planting scheme Green Roof Sedum matting was suggested and chosen. This is a lightweight and drought-tolerant green roof vegetation option, ideal for green roofs, especially those with a shallow substrate layer, as in this case. A Sedum Matting roof is a low-maintenance option that provides biodiversity, insulation, improves air quality in urban landscapes, and increases habitat creation. The plants offer a variety of leaf types and flowers which creates a blend of beautiful colours and textures when planted together.

Finally, Edge Guard was supplied to retain the lightweight substrate, which was especially important in areas lacking upstands.

James Ricks, Director at Wheelbarrow Landscapes comments, “We use Green-tech for all of our soft landscaping sundries and they always supply all the products we require, as and when we need them. They are knowledgeable and a pleasure to deal with. Green-tech was able to supply all the products we required for us to install the green roofs and also supplied the Edge Guard powder coated in black to match the black timber cladding. Our client was delighted with the finished product and plans to use it throughout the site on the remaining cabin roofs once they are all built.”

The installation at The Point at Polzeath is testimony to the synergy between sustainable design and innovative environmental solutions. Green-tech’s products addressed challenges such as weight limitations and maintenance concerns and played an essential role in enhancing the aesthetic appeal and ecological sustainability of the project.

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Lionesses Futures fund pitches

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Lionesses Futures fund pitches: Arsenal defender and Lionesses captain Leah Williamson returned to her hometown today to celebrate The Leah Williamson Pitch at Newport Pagnell Town FC, one of the first half of sites to receive Lionesses Futures Fund grants.

This £30m cash injection from the Premier League, The FA and Government’s Football Foundation was announced last year to recognise the trailblazing success of the Lionesses. The grants will help to provide women and girls across the country with gold standard facilities and experiences, with priority access for women and girls through reserved peak-time slots and welcoming changing rooms.

Since the Lionesses lifted the EURO trophy in 2022, 68,000 more girls are playing football compared to before the tournament. However, too often, badly lit pitches, unsuitable changing facilities and late-night kick-off times put women and girls off taking to the pitch.

To celebrate the Lionesses roaring to victory at the 2022 UEFA EUROs and their achievement of making the final at FIFA World Cup 2023, £25m from the Government and £5m from The FA was committed to supporting the improvement of at least 30 facilities across the country.

The Leah Williamson Pitch is just one of 15 sites across the country from Oldham to the New Forest and Suffolk to Somerset who have been awarded a Lionesses Futures Fund grant. By January 2025 further sites will be in place to provide every women and girl the facilities they need and deserve.

Leah Williamson said:

“It is such an honour to be here to see one of the first Lionesses Futures Fund pitches come to life. Something I know the squad is incredibly proud of. This pitch will provide the very best playing experience for local women and girls, ensuring they can play at decent times and on a state-of-the-art pitch. 

“To meet some of the players who will get the opportunity to lace up their boots to play on this great pitch has been magic!  I feel so proud to be a Lioness and proud of the whole team for inspiring women and girls to play football.”

Robert Sullivan, CEO of the Football Foundation, said: 

“It’s a real pleasure to be here to unveil one of the first 3G pitches that a Lionesses Futures Fund Grant has made possible. For the pitch to be named after local footballing legend Leah Williamson in recognition of the Lionesses recent successes will be incredibly inspiring for the players here at Newport Pagnell Town.

“This Fund builds on the Football Foundation’s biggest ever commitment to providing equal access to grassroots facilities for women and girls.

“Over 8,500 women’s and girls’ football teams were playing at sites that have benefitted from Football Foundation funding last season, whether that be for new goalposts, improved grass pitches or brand-new changing pavilions and 3G pitches.

“Thanks to the funding from the Premier League, The FA and Government, we’re delivering 30 pitches like this across the country to support the growing demand for football we’ve seen following the Lionesses’ inspirational success.”

Sports Minister, Stephanie Peacock, said:

“Thousands more women and girls are playing football since the Lionesses lifted the Women’s EURO 2022 trophy – so building welcoming facilities for them to get on the pitch is now more important than ever.

“As captain of the Lionesses, Leah Williamson has provided leadership both on and off the pitch and this facility in Newport Pagnell will give many more women and girls the chance to follow in her footsteps.”

Notes to editors

About the Football Foundation

The Football Foundation is the Premier League, The FA and Government’s charity that delivers outstanding grassroots facilities, more and better places to play, transforming lives and communities where it is needed most.

The Foundation’s goal is to unlock the power of pitches ensuring every community has a great place to play regardless of gender, race, disability or place.

Since its creation in 2000, the Foundation has invested more than £1.1 billion to improve grassroots facilities across the country – including 1,200 3G pitches, 13,000 grass pitches and 1,500 changing rooms. This has attracted an additional £1.4 billion of partnership funding – totalling over £2.5 billion investment in grassroots football so far.

In partnership with local authorities, County FAs and other community stakeholders, the Foundation has created Local Football Facility Plans for every local authority in England. These Plans act as a blueprint for providing the grassroots football facility improvements that each community needs and deserves across the country.

Visit footballfoundation.org.uk for more information on the Foundation and view the Plan for your local area.

About the Lionesses Futures Fund

To ensure each Lionesses Futures Fund site provides a best-in-class experience for women and girls, they will need to meet the following criteria:

  • Provide a gold-standard usage programme for women and girls, including:
    • Social and competitive sessions
    • Youth to adult players
    • Training and match play
    • Talent pathway and/or women’s football pyramid club (where applicable)
  • Prioritise access for women and girls through:
    • Women’s and girls’-only evenings
    • Priority booking
    • Peak-time slots
    • Secured usage for long-term growth
  • Ensure facilities are female-friendly by:
    • Providing basic sanitary products within the player, coach and spectator changing rooms and toilet areas
    • Keeping the clubhouse, changing facilities and site surroundings well-lit, maintained, welcoming and always suitable and inclusive for all users
  • Publicly display the site operator’s strategy to prioritise women’s and girls’ access at the site.
  • Guarantee female representation across the site operator’s committees and assign designated women’s and girls’ leads.

To find out more about the Fund, visit the Foundation’s website: https://footballfoundation.org.uk/news/history-making-lionesses-recognised-with-the-lionesses-futures-fund

Lionesses Futures Fund projects:

The following sites have been awarded funding through the Lionesses Futures Fund so far:

AFC Sudbury (Suffolk):

  • Funding: A £1.1 million grant for a new 3G pitch at The MEL Group Stadium, home to AFC Sudbury.
  • Women & Girls: The new pitch will benefit the Club’s existing 30 teams, ranging from junior teams to their women’s first team, who currently play in Tier 4 of the Women’s Football Pyramid. The pitch will also be used by Ipswich Town Foundation and Norwich City Community Sports Foundation to deliver their community programmes.
  • Other activity: The new facilities will host walking football and enable the creation of five new disability teams.

Ashford Town FC: (Spelthorne):

  • Funding: A £832k grant for a 3G pitch and the refurbishment of existing changing rooms at Ashford Town FC’s home ground, the Robert Parker Stadium to ensure the facilities are female-friendly and inclusive.
  • Women & Girls: The pitch will be home to Ashford Town’s women’s first team, who currently play in Tier 4 of the Women’s Football Pyramid. The facilities will also be used by several local grassroots teams, including Colne Valley Girls FC and Brentford FC Community Sports Trust to hosting training and match play for girls. This will take the total number of women’s and girls’ teams using the site to 18 within five years of the new facilities opening.
  • Other activity: Surrey Care Trust and Middlesex County FA plan to use the new facilities to deliver sessions aimed at refugees and introducing people to football for the first time.

Astley Cooper School (Dacorum):

  • Funding: A £693k grant towards the refurbishment of an existing 3G pitch at Astley Cooper School.
  • Women & Girls: The pitch will be used by local grassroots clubs, Hemel Hempstead Town FC and Hemel Aces FC, who are expected to create nine new female within the first five years of the facilities opening. The school will also host ‘Community Kickabout’ sessions for women interested in playing football casually.
  • Other activity: The new facilities will support people living with disabilities and long-term health conditions through pan disability sessions run by Hempstead Town FC as well as people from culturally diverse backgrounds through Dacorum Indian Society.

Benjamin Britten Academy (East Suffolk):

  • Funding: A £964k grant to Hartismere Family of Schools Trust for a new 3G pitch at Benjamin Britten Academy.
  • Women & Girls: This project will support the largest club in Suffolk, Waveney FC to grow to seven female teams. The pitch will also be used by Ipswich Town Foundation.
  • Other activity: Everyone Active will partner with Waveney FC to deliver walking football sessions and with Involve Active to run holiday sessions for people with additional needs. The project will also deliver new cricket nets, which will be used by the school and Lowestoft Cricket Club to build a coaching and player pathway.

Birmingham County FA Football Development Centre (Sandwell):

  • Funding: A £623k grant towards a new 3G pitch at Birmingham County FA’s headquarters, Ray Hall Lane.
  • Women & Girls: 15 female teams from local grassroots clubs, Walsall Women FC and FC Premier, will use the new pitch. It’ll also be used by Birmingham County FA to deliver Wildcats sessions, female walking football and fitness sessions for female officials.
  • Other activity: Within five years of opening, over 350 people are expected to use the new pitch each month for recreational activities, including sessions aimed at preventing anti-social behaviour and supporting people with dementia to get active.

Chadderton FC (Oldham):

  • Funding: A £1 million grant towards a new 3G pitch and improvements to the existing car park and changing rooms at Chadderton FC’s home ground, the Firefox Stadium, to ensure the facilities are female-friendly and inclusive.
  • Women & Girls: Chadderton FC expect to grow to 14 female teams within five years of the new facilities opening. The pitch will also be used by Oldham Athletic during a women and girls-only evening and will be a central venue for the North Manchester Girls League.
  • Other activity: The new pitch will host sessions aimed at helping asylum seekers and people with disabilities and long-term health conditions to get active.

Hickings Lane Recreation Ground (Broxtowe):

  • Funding: A £1.4 million grant to Broxtowe Borough Council and Stapleford Town FC towards the refurbishment of the existing facilities at Hickings Lane Recreation Ground, delivering two 3G pitches (one full-size and one small-sided) alongside a refurbished community building.
  • Women & Girls: The new facilities will be used by Stapleford’s existing 31 teams and enable the Club to establish an additional nine female teams within five years of opening. The pitches would also host a monthly women’s football festival, run by Nottinghamshire County FA.
  • Other activity: The community building will be used various sports other than football, including fitness, dance and yoga classes.

Laurus Ryecroft High School (Tameside):

  • Funding: A £748k grant to Laurus Trust for a new 3G pitch and toilet block to ensure the facilities are female-friendly and inclusive as well as improvements to the existing car park and relocation of cricket wickets at Laurus Ryecroft High School.
  • Women & Girls: The pitch is expected to be used by over 100 teams within five years of opening, including 19 female teams through Ashton Pumas Girls FC.
  • Other activity: The site will enable Curzon Ashton to significantly expand their provision to the wider community by hosting military veterans, disability and mental health sessions, delivered by the Club’s community foundation. The site will also be used for rugby union through Aldwinians RUFC, who already have an existing partnership with the Trust.

Moss Farm Leisure Complex (Cheshire):

  • Funding: A £715k grant to Cheshire West and Chester Council & Cheshire FA towards a new 3G pitch and refurbishments to Cheshire FA’s headquarters at Moss Farm Leisure Complex.
  • Women & Girls: The site is already a hub for women’s and girl’s football in the area, but these new facilities will enable Cheshire FA to expand through hosting the Cheshire Girls League as well as training and match play for several local grassroots clubs, including Northwich Victoria FC and Barnton FC
  • Other activity: The new facilities will enable the expansion of the Cheshire Disability Social League, which currently operates once per month, as well as the disability schools festivals held at Moss Farm.

Myra Shay Playing Field (Bradford):

  • Funding: A £784k grant to City of Bradford Metropolitan District Council for a new 3G pitch the refurbishment of existing changing rooms at Myra Shay to ensure the facilities are female-friendly and inclusive.
  • Women & Girls: The new facilities will allow local grassroots club, Athletico FC to create a full female pathway, with teams ranging from Under 8s all the way to their first team.
  • Other activity – Athletico’s charitable arm, Athletico Sports Foundation will run various community programmes specifically targeted at helping people with disabilities and long-term health conditions as well as walking football.

Newport Pagnell Town FC (Milton Keynes)

  • Funding: A £775k grant towards a new 3G pitch at Willen Road.
  • Women and Girls: The new facilities will enable Newport Pagnell to establish a full female pathway by creating 11 new women’s and girls’ teams within five years of the pitch opening. The pitch will also work with Berks and Bucks County FA to provide the first women’s pan-disability session in the region.
  • Other activity: This project will support diverse communities from a range of backgrounds, including through a weekly LGBTQ+ session ran by local charity, The Q: Alliance, as well as ‘turn up and play’ sessions and low-cost Premier League Kicks sessions to support people from socio-economic backgrounds

Peacehaven & Telescombe FC (Lewes):

  • Funding: A £949k grant for a new 3G pitch and improvements to the existing changing rooms at Peacehaven & Telescombe FC’s home ground, the Sports Ground, to ensure the facilities are female-friendly and inclusive.
  • Women & Girls: Thanks to the new facilities, the Club is expects a fivefold growth in women’s and girls’ teams, from three to 15. Sussex County FA will also use the new pitch to deliver coaching support and referee courses for women and girls.
  • Other activities: The facilities will host holiday courses ran by Brighton & Hove Albion Foundation as well as walking football, an employability programme and asylum seekers sessions.

Portishead Town FC (North Somerset):

  • Funding: A £840k grant towards the refurbishment of an existing 3G pitch at Portishead Town FC’s home ground, Bristol Road.
  • Women & Girls: Portishead Town currently have a total of five women’s teams, one of which plays in Tier 4 of the Women’s Football Pyramid. Thanks to the new facilities, this number is predicted to grow to 11 (two adult and nine youth) within five years. Somerset County FA will also use the pitch host a girls’ league for Under 8s and Under 10s.
  • Other activity: The Portishead Wellness Partnership, who are linked to Portishead Town Council and work with partners such as Age UK, the NHS and Voluntary Action North Somerset, will use the facilities to run targeted community programmes.

Presdales School Academy Trust (East Hertfordshire):

  • Funding: A £824k grant for a new 3G pitch at Presdales School.
  • Women & Girls: Local grassroots club, Star Bury Rangers FC, will use the new pitch for both their training and match play. This will support the Club to grow by 20 teams in the first five years of the site being open, 19 of which will be female teams. Hertford Town FC and Stevenage Women FC, who currently play in Tier 3 of the Women’s Football Pyramid, will also play at the site.
  • Other activity: Supporting people with disabilities and long-term health conditions will be a key focus for this project.

Testwood School (New Forrest)

  • Funding: A £399k grant for a 3G pitch and improvements to the existing cricket facilities at Testwood School.
  • Women & Girls: The site will be used by PACE Youth FC who’ll host a women and girls-only evening, enabling the Club to grow to add an additional eight female teams.
  • Other activity: Tottonians Rugby Club and Totton & Eling Cricket Club also plan to use the new facilities to grow their respective sports.

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Attraxor’s Impact at Cheltenham College

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Attraxor’s Impact at Cheltenham College: Cheltenham College, a prestigious independent school with a rich history, prides itself on immaculate grounds that reflect its high standards. Central to maintaining these exceptional grounds is Christian Brain, Head of Grounds and his knowledgeable team.

For the past decade, Christian has called upon Agrovista Amenity for expert advice and products, and in recent years, Attraxor has become a crucial tool in his turf management arsenal.

Attraxor's Impact at Cheltenham College

Attraxor’s Impact at Cheltenham College

Cheltenham College, known for its academic excellence and beautiful campus, hosts numerous events and sports activities throughout the year. The main college field, spanning 3 hectares, is a focal point for many of these events, requiring meticulous care and attention to maintain its pristine condition.

Attraxor is a plant growth regulator exclusively available in the UK from Agrovista Amenity. It contains prohexadione calcium, which effectively manages the growth of amenity turf. By inhibiting the gibberellic acid pathway, Attraxor reduces turf height and biomass while promoting root growth and maintaining turf colour and quality. Its innovative formulation allows for fast leaf absorption, delivering almost instant results and offering flexibility in application timing, even during cooler weather.

Christian’s journey with Attraxor began a few years ago, thanks to a recommendation from Ray Hunt from Agrovista Amenity. “I first used Attraxor a few years ago. Ray suggested I give it a try, and I’ve had good results from it ever since,” Christian recalls. His application strategy is both efficient and effective, tailored to fit the busy schedule of an independent school.

Christian typically applies Attraxor in mid-May when the weather has improved, and the growing season is in full swing. He mixes Attraxor with fertiliser in three tanks to cover the 3-hectare main college field. “It helps reduce poa seedheads, which is great, and at that time of the year, the grass is growing a lot, so it helps to get a lot of bulk out of it. With the added bit of nitrogen, it gives it a nice colour,” Christian explains.

The timing of the application is crucial, coinciding with Cheltenham College’s Speech Day at the end of May, a major event which takes place on the field. “Attraxor helps present the field for all the visitors – it really shines it up and makes it ready for the day. It holds it nicely through the summertime as well,” says Christian.

The impact of Attraxor on the college grounds has been significant. Christian notes several key benefits:

Improved Turf Density and Appearance: “I’ve found that it improves density and enhances the appearance of the sward,” he says.

Reduced Clippings and Mowing Frequency: “Reduced clippings and mowing frequency helps in the busy spring/summer period.”

Enhanced Root Formation: “Root formation is also enhanced, which helps the plant’s vigour and colour when rainfall is less frequent.”

Suppressed Poa Annua Seeding: “Poa Annua seeding is suppressed which means less poa seeds germinating and establishing in the sward,” he adds.

Christian believes that the fast-acting nature of Attraxor is essential in a busy environment like Cheltenham College. His limited spraying windows and the constant use of the field requires a product that delivers quick and reliable results.

Christian’s experience with Attraxor at Cheltenham College highlights the product’s efficacy and the importance of expert guidance from Agrovista Amenity. By integrating Attraxor into his turf management routine, Christian continues to maintain the high standards of the college’s grounds.

For more information about Agrovista UK, visit www.agrovista.co.uk/amenity

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Innovations from the Swabian tall grass experts

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Innovations from the Swabian tall grass experts: High-grass mowing has been the core competence of AS-Motor since 1959. AS-Motor customers rely on the high performance of the products and expect above-average quality, durability and service.

Meeting these demands is and remains the driving force of the high grass experts. What has changed – as part of the Ariens Company – are the opportunities to utilise additional technologies and expertise. AS-Motor will be presenting the first results of this new constellation at GaLaBau 2024.

Innovations from the Swabian tall grass experts

Innovations from the Swabian tall grass experts

The new AS 920 ESherpa 2 WD

The trend towards electrically powered mowers in the green sector cannot be overlooked.  At GaLaBau, AS-Motor is now presenting the first professional AS 920 ESherpa 2 WD high grass battery-powered ride-on mower. The new electric mower from the popular Sherpa family impresses above all with its battery exchange system. The electric drive and blade drive works very efficiently and ensures a professional mowing performance that is even better than that of a combustion engine. The 56V FusionCore battery system from Ariens not only offers above-average performance in all areas, but can also be used multiple times. The exchangeable batteries of the AS 920 ESherpa 2WD are compatible with the professional Zenith E and Arrow E zero-turn mowers from sister brand Ariens. This ensures optimum seasonal use and utilisation of the batteries.

The new AS 1000 Ovis Evo RC

For two and a half years now, numerous remote-controlled AS 1000 Ovis RC machines have been in use on steep slopes throughout Europe. The tracked flail mower with maximum mowing performance and extreme slope capability has become an integral part of the AS-Motor product range. At GaLaBau 2024, the tall grass experts will be presenting the next development stage of the mower, the AS 1000 Ovis Evo RC: with more RC functions for even greater user comfort. The new model differs from the basic model with a remote-controlled, electric cutting height adjustment with display, a remote-controlled, electromechanical blade clutch and quick release of hydrostats and brake.

New: The AS-Motor X-Act Track steering assistant

For the new mowing season, AS-Motor is offering a steering assistant for its remote-controlled tracked flail mowers AS 1000 Ovis RC (next generation) and AS 1000 Ovis Evo RC. With the new X-Act Track steering assistant from AS-Motor, the driver can save his concentration and dexterity for difficult mowing passages. On large areas with an easy to medium profile, the automatic steering system takes over precise steering. GPS signals, which are corrected to within a few centimetres by RTK correction data from fixed base stations, enable clean mowing lines without loss of cutting width and uncut areas. The result is a significantly higher area output and less operator fatigue.

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Perfect cutting performance in a dynamic design

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Perfect cutting performance in a dynamic design: Last year, the Ariens Company celebrated its 90th anniversary. The family business has been manufacturing two-stage snow blowers and high-quality lawn care equipment since 1933.

The anniversary was taken as an opportunity to relaunch all combustion models of the Ariens zero-turn mowers. Following adaptation to the CE standard, the new models will now be launched on the European market from the 2025 mowing season.

Perfect cutting performance in a dynamic design

Perfect cutting performance in a dynamic design

From the entry-level Edge model for private gardens to the price-performance star Apex and the professional Zenith model, the new models are presented in a new, dynamic look. In addition to minor technical improvements, the new Ariens Envy mowing deck and the StVZO road equipment for the Zenith and Zenith E models will be the centre of interest.

The new Ariens Zenith – Made for professional use

The Ariens Zenith is designed for daily professional use and will be equipped with the new Ariens Envy mowing deck from 2025. This is characterised by durability, a consistent cutting pattern and a robust blade system. An optimised air flow ensures a perfect cutting pattern. The fully suspended and adjustable seat with high backrest and folding armrests, the new ergonomic driving lever handles and the standard wheel fork suspension ensure real driving comfort. The zero-turn mower is powered by a powerful Kawasaki FX730V engine with a displacement of 726 cm³.

See and be seen with the StVZO lighting system

The use of zero-turn mowers on public roads requires a lighting system approved in accordance with the German Road Traffic Licensing Regulations (StVZO). From the coming mowing season, Ariens will be offering a StVZO road kit for the Zenith and Zenith E models. The kit consists of an operating and control unit, front and rear lighting, an indicator, a licence plate holder, a speed plate, reflectors and a horn. A TÜV type certificate facilitates approval. The ECE marking is recognised throughout Europe and can be implemented in all EU countries through individual approval.

The Ariens Apex model year 2025 – Built to mow large areas

The new, appealing design with a stylish comfort seat and new driving levers has been incorporated into the Ariens Apex model year 2025, as has the new Ariens Envy mower deck. The Ariens Apex is also equipped with the high-quality frame of the Ariens Zenith professional mower and professional hydrostats from Hydro Gear. The Ariens CBT (Constant-Belt-Tension System) compensates for belt wear and prevents the blades from stopping under high loads. The high-quality Kawasaki FR691 V-engine with a displacement of 726 cm³ provides the mower with reliable power for every day. All in all, the new Ariens Apex stands for robust, long-lasting quality and outstanding cutting performance. Service providers and owners of large lawns will find it the perfect mower and unbeatable value for money.   

The new Ariens Edge – Even smaller areas deserve big performance

With its compact dimensions, the Ariens Edge brings speed and manoeuvrability even to winding gardens. The punched mower deck of the Edge 34 with 86 cm cutting width and the welded mower deck of the Edge 42 ensure a very good cutting pattern. The robust 4-point mower deck suspension and 7-position cutting height adjustment via foot pedal are standard. The comfortable and adjustable seat with back cut-out and good legroom ensures comfort. To summarise: The Ariens Edge – the smallest of the zero-turn mowers – offers durability, comfort and the speed of a zero-turn mower in a handy, compact format. The new design suits it particularly well.

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