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ICL Appoints Philip Mayes as Technical Area Sales Manager

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ICL Appoints Philip Mayes as Technical Area Sales Manager: ICL Turf & Landscape has appointed Philip Mayes as Technical Area Sales Manager, South.

In this role, Philip will be responsible for supporting golf and sports clubs across southern counties, predominantly Surrey, Berkshire, Hampshire, and West Sussex, working closely with distributors, greenkeepers, and sports turf managers to provide technical guidance and tailored solutions.

ICL Appoints Philip Mayes as Technical Area Sales Manager

ICL Appoints Philip Mayes as Technical Area Sales Manager

Philip brings a wealth of experience in sports turf management, with a strong background in golf course maintenance and education. His career spans both the UK and the Middle East, where he has led high-profile projects in golf and sports turf. He holds an MSc in Horticulture (Sports Turf Management) from the University of Reading and a BSc Honours in Turfgrass Science and Golf Course Management from the University of Central Lancashire.

Philip’s UK-based experience is extensive. He spent 11 years as a senior lecturer and programme manager at Merrist Wood College, training future turf professionals in sports turf, landscaping, and grounds maintenance, as well as golf course architecture and construction. Additionally, he held the positions of Deputy Head Greenkeeper and Assistant Greenkeeper at golf clubs, alongside other turf management roles at various sporting venues.

His international experience includes working as Graduate Assistant Superintendent at The Old Collier Golf Club in Florida, and as Senior Sports Turf Manager and Project Manager in Doha, Qatar, where he oversaw the maintenance of five FIFA World Cup stadiums and training facilities before, during, and after the FIFA World Cup 2022. He also played a key role in developing a 430,000m² turf nursery to support the tournament’s pitch requirements. Prior to this, he worked in Dubai as a Project Manager and Training Manager, supporting major sports turf projects across the region.

Philip is also a keen golfer, enjoying the game whenever time allows, further strengthening his connection with the industry and his understanding of the needs of course managers. His hands-on experience in golf course maintenance, combined with his work in large-scale sports turf projects, means he is well-placed to help clubs optimise playing conditions while balancing sustainability and budgetary considerations.

Commenting on his new role, Philip said: “I’m excited to join ICL and help golf and sports clubs achieve the highest turf standards. With experience in golf course management, project execution, and education, I understand the challenges turf managers face. I’m looking forward to offering practical, research-driven solutions that improve playing surfaces.”

Andrew Pledger, Sales & Business Development Manager – UK South, welcomed Philip to the team, saying: “Philip’s extensive experience in both the UK and international turf sectors adds significant value to ICL and the turf industry. His technical expertise, coupled with his hands-on approach, will be a great asset to our customers.”

Philip’s appointment highlights ICL’s ongoing commitment to delivering expert technical support and innovative solutions to the golf industry. By working closely with both distributors and sports clubs, he will ensure that turf managers receive insights that go beyond standard sales calls—providing actionable, research-based guidance that enhances long-term turf performance.

Please contact ICL on 01473 237100 or visit www.icl-sf.co.uk or www.icl-sf.ie  if you are in Ireland.

For more news and insightful views, you can follow ICL on Twitter @ICL_Turf

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Richard Walne appointed as Managing Director of EMEA

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Richard Walne appointed as Managing Director of EMEA: The Toro Company is pleased to announce that Richard Walne has been named managing director of the Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) region for its International Business. In his new role, Walne will have leadership responsibility for the company’s equipment and water businesses in the region with a focus on advancing strategic customer priorities, strengthening its market positions and evolving the portfolio of innovative solutions.

Walne’s impressive career at The Toro Company spans 45 years, during which he has held various roles across the International Business. His journey with Toro began as a technical representative in Europe and from there he has had responsibilities around the world. He held senior marketing and product development roles in the United States, demonstrating great versatility and leadership. He then transitioned to the Asia Pacific, Australia and China (APAC) region, ultimately serving as managing director, APAC, a position he had held since 2000. With a deep passion for helping customers and a proven ability to inspire teams, Walne has made significant contributions to Toro’s growth and success throughout his career which he now brings to the EMEA region.

Richard Walne appointed as Managing Director of EMEA

Richard Walne appointed as Managing Director of EMEA

Well-known and respected in the golf and premium sport markets for his extensive product knowledge and expertise, Walne played a key role in founding the Asian Golf Industry Federation and continues to drive education as chairperson of the Certificate in Greenkeeping Committee. A passionate supporter of Variety, The Children’s Charity, Walne has participated in the Annual Variety Bash since 2001, raising significant amounts to help children in South Australia who are sick, disadvantaged, or living with disability.

“Richard’s industry knowledge and impressive career at The Toro Company have been nothing short of exceptional,” said Amy Dahl, vice president, International at The Toro Company. “His contributions have significantly shaped our international business across the globe, and his dedication to our customers and teams is unparalleled. We are thrilled that Richard is moving into this role and are confident that he will help expand our market leadership and accelerate growth in this region moving forward.”

Walne will relocate to the United Kingdom over the next few months, marking a return to where he first began his storied career with The Toro Company.

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Peter Pattenden announced as Amenity Sprayer Operator of the Year

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Peter Pattenden announced as Amenity Sprayer Operator of the Year: Peter Pattenden, spray tech at the Cheshire championship golf resort, Carden Park, has won the prestigious title of Amenity Sprayer Operator of the Year.

Peter’s ASOOTY award presentation was made as part of the glittering BIGGA industry awards at BTME in Harrogate this week (21 January 2025), along with the competition’s other finalists, Sarah Phillips of Complete Weed Control (South & Central Wales) and Mark Sippitt of Top Grass UK.

Peter Pattenden announced as Amenity Sprayer Operator of the Year

Peter Pattenden announced as Amenity Sprayer Operator of the Year

The ASOOTY awards highlight best practice and experience in the challenging role of ensuring accurate application on all amenity surfaces.

Sponsored by ICL and Syngenta and managed by the Amenity Forum, the awards seek to share top tips and advice that will raise the standards of spray application across the amenity industry.

The ASOOTY judges particularly praised Peter’s commitment to complete a comprehensive checklist of mechanical and practical points before every application, including calibration of the sprayer and assessment of the specific requirements for any products being used.

“Although only a relatively young age, Peter ably demonstrated a deep understanding of the principles of sprayer mechanics and operation, along with the implication of how any changes could impact on application,” reports Syngenta Technical Manager, Sean Loakes.

“He also showed an excellent awareness of the environmental aspects of good sprayer operation that will mitigate any impact of off-target spray drift or over application. His commitment and attention to achieving accurate application was exemplary and makes him a great role model for other sprayer operators to learn from.”

The judges also highlighted how Peter had embraced new technologies in a move towards precision application to ensure more of the products hit the intended target, as well as adopting digital tools including sprayer set up advice, turf management Apps and application record keeping.

Other ASOOTY finalists at the Awards included Sarah Phillips of Complete Weed Control (South & Central Wales), who was commended for her pioneering work in developing a comprehensive and effective training programme for the company’s spray technicians, which draws on her extensive experience and knowledge as a highly professional operator.

Mark Sippitt, of Warwickshire-based Top Grass UK, was also praised for the way he had successfully developed integrated turf management strategies for lawn treatments including herbicides, iron treatment, nutrition and mechanical controls – where accurate knapsack application was at the centre of the company’s approach. Ongoing training and regular in-house assessment ensures Mark and other Top Grass operatives are always fully up to date with developments and techniques.

ICL Landscape & Industrial Business Development Manager, Lewis Blois, added: “We were once again hugely impressed with all the finalists’ dedication to ensuring every application is made as effectively as possible. They all take exceptional care to achieve a good result, as well as immense pride that they have made a real difference with a job well done.

“This year the Awards have recognised the range of spray application techniques and the differing skills involved across the amenity sector. It will provide a unique and vitally important resource for all involved in spray application.”

Presenting the award at BTME, Ian Graham, Chairman of the Amenity Forum, said: “The skills required to competently apply professional plant protection products are often overlooked. Along with the formal training and accreditation process, there is the experience that takes years to acquire.

“Winners of this award have elevated the application process to an art, be that with a knapsack or a boom sprayer, to help create great playing surfaces  all year round, managing amenity areas efficiently and cost effectively, along with maintaining immaculate lawns for customers,” he adds.

“The Amenity Forum is delighted to work with ICL and Syngenta as the sponsors of this award and would like to congratulate Peter for upholding the highest of professional standards.”

Look out on the Amenity Forum website for more details and entry form for the launch of next year’s ASOOTY and your chance to win.

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Green-tech names St Leonard’s Hospice as its chosen charity

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Green-tech names St Leonard’s Hospice as its chosen charity: Green-tech, the UK’s leading supplier of landscaping materials, has announced that St Leonard’s Hospice in York will be its charity of the year for 2025.

Green-tech is dedicated to supporting its local community and contributing to meaningful causes.

Green-tech names St Leonard’s Hospice as its chosen charity

Green-tech names St Leonard’s Hospice as its chosen charity

Each year, a member of the Green-tech team selects a charity for the company to support throughout the year. For 2025, Deputy Team Leader Chris Cross’ chosen charity is St Leonard’s Hospice, a much-loved and vital organisation that provides exceptional care and support for people with life-limiting illnesses in York and North Yorkshire.

St Leonard’s Hospice offers a range of services, including inpatient care, a Hospice@Home service, and bereavement support for families. Their compassionate approach ensures that patients and their loved ones receive the care and dignity they deserve during challenging times. As an independent charity, St Leonard’s relies heavily on donations to continue its critical work.

The Green-tech team aims to raise over £1000 during 2025 through various fundraising events and initiatives. In previous years, Green-tech has successfully raised substantial amounts for other charities, including Henshaws College, The Sick Children’s Trust, and Epilepsy Action. In 2024, they raised over £30,000 as part of their ‘£30k for 30 Years’ campaign.

Chris Cross commented, “St Leonard’s Hospice holds a special place in my family’s heart after caring for my father-in-law in his last few months. Their hard work is appreciated, offering comfort and care during life’s most difficult moments. I am proud to support them throughout 2025 and look forward to raising as much as possible to give a little back and help make a difference.”

St Leonard’s Hospice is excited about the partnership with Green-tech. Annie Keogh, Corporate Partnerships Development Fundraiser comments “We are incredibly grateful to Green-tech for choosing to support our hospice in 2025, which also marks St Leonard’s 40th Anniversary. Their efforts and commitment will help us to continue providing vital care to those living with life-limiting illnesses in North Yorkshire. Their generosity helps ensure we can keep supporting everyone who needs us.  I am looking forward to working together throughout 2025.”

To learn more about St Leonard’s Hospice or to make a donation, visit their website at https://stleonardshospice.org.uk/.

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BOSS appointed as distributors for AODES

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BOSS appointed as distributors for AODES: BOSS ORV is delighted to announce their appointment as UK and Ireland distributors for AODES Off-Road Vehicles. Established over thirty years ago and headquartered in Shandong, China, AODES is a multinational brand sold in more than 100 countries.

The company opened an R&D and distribution centre in California, USA in 2012, and decades of focusing on the power sports industry culminated in the introduction, in 2021, of the Pathcross ATV Series. The ATVs feature V-Twin engines in 525cc, 650cc, and 1000cc displacements. The appointment of BOSS was finalised at the EICMA exhibition in Milan.

BOSS appointed as distributors for AODES

BOSS appointed as distributors for AODES

“We are very excited to have a new ATV/Quad in our product portfolio.” Says BOSS ORV MD Phil Everett. “The wait has been worth it, as we have finally found a really high quality and price competitive product to suit our challenging market. This Shandong ODES Industry Co Ltd range will fit perfectly with our current products from CORVUS UTV, Powerland Agro Tractor Vehicles Private Limited, Paxster AS, and Faunamaster ApS as it fills a gap to join them all together. We will announce more details over the coming weeks.” The Pathcross ATV will be on show for the first time on the BOSS ORV stand at the LAMMA agricultural show in January 2025.

Pictured at EICMA with Mr Wang, the Shandong ODES founder and owner, are some of the BOSS team, Neil Everett, Phil Everett, Matt Richardson, and AODES global and Italy team.

For more information about BOSS ORV distributed products, you can call 01785 561046

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