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KP Agri appointed as South Wales Corvus dealer

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KP Agri appointed as South Wales Corvus dealer: Agricultural machinery specialist, KP Agri, has been appointed as a Corvus Off-Road Vehicle dealer.

BOSS ORV, the Corvus UK distributor, who has been growing the Corvus dealer network since 2019, made the announcement. KP Agri is a family-run company based in South Wales. Started by Paul Benton in 2008 as a 29-year-old ‘man with a van’, following working for a local Claas dealer, the business grew quickly, and he took on premises with Kelly, his wife, and business partner.

KP Agri appointed as South Wales Corvus dealer

KP Agri appointed as South Wales Corvus dealer

Alongside other very strong franchises, KP Agri will be selling and supporting the Corvus range of off-road utility vehicles comprising the Corvus Terrain DX4 diesel models and the EX4 all-electric UTV. Corvus was the first European manufacturer of UTVs and describes their vehicles as high-quality, tough workhorses widely in use in agriculture, turf and groundscare, landscaping, forestry, and construction.

“We’re very pleased to have KP Agri join the Corvus dealer network,” says BOSS ORV National Sales Manager, Neil Everett. “They put a great deal of emphasis on not only the buying and selling of agricultural machinery but also the essential after-sales support with their excellent facilities and approach to customers.”

Paul Benton expressed the company’s view, saying “we’re proud to have been appointed as the official Corvus UTV dealer for South Wales. This is an exciting new franchise for us, and we’re thrilled to bring Europe’s leading UTV brand to our customers. As the first European manufacturer of UTVs, Corvus sets the standard for off-road work and adventure with cutting-edge engineering and reliability. We have a demo machine available and welcome customers to get in touch and experience the performance of Corvus UTV firsthand.”

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

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TFM Farm Appointed as New Etesia Dealer

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TFM Farm Appointed as New Etesia Dealer: Etesia UK is pleased to announce TFM Farm and Country Superstore as its newest dealer, bringing the high-performance Etesia range to the rural communities of Shropshire and beyond.

This partnership is set to offer local customers a robust selection of commercial-grade grass-cutting machinery, including pedestrian mowers, ride-on mowers, and brushcutters.

TFM Farm Appointed as New Etesia Dealer

TFM Farm Appointed as New Etesia Dealer

TFM Farm and Country Superstore, a family-run business with a deep-rooted history in serving the rural workforce, is well-known for its vast range of agricultural, construction, and country living products. Group Buyer Hayley Cole explained the importance of introducing the Etesia brand to their customers:

“Where we are based, a lot of customers start with domestic ride-ons, but they often find they’re not up to the job when tackling larger gardens or paddocks. We needed something at a more commercial level, and Etesia was the perfect fit,” said Hayley.

Etesia, a leader in grass-cutting innovation since 1989, is renowned for its reliability, durability, and performance across diverse conditions. With a product lineup that includes pedestrian and ride-on mowers, brushcutters, and the award-winning ET Lander electric utility vehicle, Etesia machines are designed to meet the demands of both domestic and commercial users.

TFM discovered Etesia at GroundsFest 2024, where the brand’s impressive display left a lasting impression. “We had a good look at their machines at the event and later visited their UK head office in Banbury to learn more. The capabilities of the machines really stood out, especially the design where the chute into the collector box is right next to the cutting deck—it’s ideal for preventing blockages,” Hayley added.

Etesia’s ability to cut and collect even in wet conditions, along with their solid construction, also caught the TFM team’s attention. “Our customers often cut grass at knee height, and domestic ride-ons just can’t handle that. These machines are built to perform,” Hayley noted.

TFM is excited to offer Etesia products to a diverse customer base, from councils and housing associations to domestic users with larger land areas. “I think there will be some crossover between domestic and commercial customers—those with land needing a more robust mower and councils requiring reliable machines,” said Hayley.

The partnership with Etesia extends beyond product sales. “The Etesia team is great to deal with,” Hayley shared. “They’re coming to deliver training on all the machines, and we know we can always pick up the phone if needed. Their support has been excellent.”

This collaboration marks a significant step for both TFM and Etesia in meeting the needs of rural communities with high-quality, dependable machinery. TFM customers can look forward to seeing the Etesia range ahead of the cutting season, with demonstrations and hiring options available.

For further information, please contact Etesia UK on 01295 680120 or visit www.etesia.co.uk.

For more news, reviews and insightful views, you can follow Etesia UK on Twitter @EtesiaUK and like the company’s Facebook page – www.facebook.com/EtesiaUK. You can also view the latest Etesia videos by visiting www.youtube.com/EtesiaUK.

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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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