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SALTEX set for one of their biggest shows

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SALTEX set for one of their biggest shows: With over 80 percent of floor space taken at SALTEX 2023, and available space up by 20 percent compared to the 2022 show, visitors can be sure of two things this year: more exhibitors in one place than ever before and one of SALTEX’s biggest shows yet.

Sarah Cunningham, director of commercial and events at the Grounds Management Association, SALTEX event organisers, says: “Exhibitors are the heart of any show and SALTEX has always attracted a good mix of new and returning, young and established, small and big companies.

SALTEX set for one of their biggest shows

SALTEX set for one of their biggest shows

“The reason for that is, they know the visitors will come. And yes, the quantity will be there as it always is, over 8000 visitors last year, but the quality is too. Research has proved that the decision makers attend.”

Two of the latest signings are new and while welcoming new exhibitors to the show line-up is always exciting, it’s especially so when that exhibitor is from overseas. Joining over 20 international exhibitors already signed up to the show, Grupo Sanz is a Spanish-based power tool distributor who has identified SALTEX as the key exhibition to put its range in front of UK customers.

Sarah continues: “When an exhibitor is from overseas it shows how word of mouth about the benefits for exhibiting at and attending SALTEX travels. But not just that, it neatly places new and interesting products and brands from across Europe in front of the visitor.”

Also on board for the first time is Monty Miracle, who sells the patented cleaning product unlocking how outdoor spaces are cleaned in just minutes.

There are many brands returning, as expected from the success of the early-bird bookings – companies such as Reesink UK for example, who booked one of the largest stand spaces for 2023 following its success at the 2022 show.

Husqvarna will also be back and Jonathan Snowball, head of professional sales, marketing and services, had this to say about the repeat booking: “Husqvarna is very pleased to once again be exhibiting at SALTEX, an event we look forward to each year to connect with our customers and meet new people looking for new technologies to support their business. This year we will be showcasing our robotic solutions for sports turf and facilities. We also have new battery machinery with sophisticated charging solutions.”

For Syngenta, SALTEX provides the perfect platform to show its innovative solutions and the practical techniques to get the best performance from integrated management strategies, says Sarah Hughes, UK business manager: “SALTEX 2023 will see the first event launch of a new integrated insecticide and biological control total approach for leatherjacket and chafer grub soil pests.

“Visitors to the Syngenta stand can get a unique detailed understanding of how the products work together from technical specialists and researchers, along with the optimum way to put together more effective and reliable control strategies to counter one of the most complex challenges for turf and landscape management.” The event will also see more of the exciting Syngenta R&D biologicals and products designed for tree care and landscape management, on show for the first time in the UK.

The success of an exhibition can largely be determined by the quantity and quality of the exhibitors who attend, and with those parameters, SALTEX 2023 is a success already.

SALTEX takes place at Birmingham NEC on 1-2 November 2023. To guarantee a ticket to Europe’s largest and leading sports turf, amenities, and landscaping trade exhibition, register now at: https://bit.ly/456l0dA

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Quick-Brush and SP230 for Marc Kerr Ltd

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Quick-Brush and SP230 for Marc Kerr Ltd: Having been put through their paces on more than 35 end of season pitch renovations, the combination of an Sandspreader and Quick-Brush from GKB Machines have emerged with high praise from contractors Marc Kerr Limited.

While the SP230 delivers large capacity for maximum efficiency, it’s the build quality that makes GKB Marc’s first port of call for machinery – with the topdresser and brush joining two GKB Sandfiller’s and a VStrong scarifier already on his fleet.

Quick-Brush and SP230 for Marc Kerr Ltd

Quick-Brush and SP230 for Marc Kerr Ltd

Marc has been offering contracting and finishing services to facilities across the North East for the last 16 years, and while the majority of his workload is comprised of fine turf maintenance, the last few years has seen more enquiries from sports turf facilities – leading Marc to review his equipment bank. “The topdresser we had was starting to struggle with age-related failures, many of which were electrical and therefore expensive to repair” explains Marc. “In replacing this, I wanted something large enough to give me a time efficient and effective solution for football, but something the remained light enough and flexible for work on the golf course.”

The SP230 offers a 2.3m3 capacity and sits in the middle of the models offered in the GKB Sandspreader range. Four balloon tyres evenly distribute ground pressure, while the hydraulically-driven belts and discs eliminate the need to hook up to a power supply. “It’s a very intuitive machine, simple to set-up and easy to adjust for different materials and different surfaces. The fact it’s hydraulic also improves reliability and makes it less expensive to run.”

Delivered alongside the SP230 in May 2022 was a GKB Quick-Brush. “This is a great complimentary tool which Tom Shinkins recommended for incorporating the sand or seed down into the ground quickly. It’s proven to be a great addition to ensure we leave a clean finish and get maximum results in the ever-tighter football renovation windows.”

When football renovations are completed, the SP230 will then be utilised for autumn golf maintenance, with the hopper capacity reduced to suit ground conditions. “We have the flexibility to just put in a lesser amount when we use the dresser on the greens to still get high efficiency without risk of any damage.”

Marc adds, “Like all of our GKB equipment, these latest additions are incredibly well built and work exactly like they say they do. With the Quick-Brush and SP230 alongside our Sandfiller’s and VStrong we are now perfectly placed to tackle all maintenance tasks, reliably, across the maintenance calendar.”

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ES-34R is the one for Bromsgrove School

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ES-34R is the one for Bromsgrove School: The grounds team at Bromsgrove School has chosen the Dennis ES-34R as its first ever battery-powered mower. 

Richard Hare has been the Head Groundsperson at the prestigious Bromsgrove School in Worcestershire for nearly a decade. In his time at the school Richard has overseen many changes and has produced some truly wonderful sports pitches.

ES-34R is the one for Bromsgrove School

ES-34R is the one for Bromsgrove School

Richard is embarking on another exciting chapter at Bromsgrove School as he starts to explore the world of battery-powered equipment.

“The school is committed to change and is pushing for sustainability in a massive way. As the grounds team, we are on a mission to do exactly the same,” he said. “Approximately, 99% of the gardening team’s equipment is already battery-powered and our aim as the grounds department is the same. It is slightly more difficult because the equipment is bigger, but the technology is advancing all the time.”

Richard has already taken the first steps towards replacing all his petrol mowers with electric ones, and it all started with a Dennis ES-34R rotary mower.

“I looked at a few other battery-powered mowers, but I think it was always going to be Dennis,” he said. “I’ve always been a big fan of the equipment from Dennis and SISIS. Personally, I think the two brands have the best machines on the market.

“We started by replacing our Dennis PRO 34R rotary mower for its electric equivalent – the ES-34R. I will say that I love the petrol PRO 34R’s – they are brilliant, but the ES-34R is on another level. It is by far the best mower I have ever used.”

The ES-34R is a 34″ (860mm) battery powered twin blade rotary mower using the latest lithium-ion battery technology. It is ideal for fine turf mowing and cleaning up operations in stadia and training facilities. Utilising the contra rotating hardened steel blades and low chute ensures maximum collection performance.

While allowing ground staff to achieve an aesthetically pleasing appearance and desired playing surface, the E-Series range will also help meet sustainability and environmental initiatives, minimise carbon footprint, emissions, running costs, HAV’s and noise without any range anxiety.

“For a 34-inch mower it is just incredible how easy you can manoeuvre it,” continued Richard. “With it being electric there are less things that can go wrong. We’ve never once had a maintenance issue with it, and we have used it virtually every day since we bought it. It has saved us money on maintenance costs as well.”

ES-34R is the one for Bromsgrove School

ES-34R is the one for Bromsgrove School

Richard also revealed that the ES-34R is just the start of the Dennis electric evolution as he intends on switching his other PRO 34R, and his two G860 and two FT510 cylinder mowers to their electric equivalents.

Oliver Baldi-Turner, a member of the grounds team at Bromsgrove School, provided further insight into how the Dennis ES-34R fits into the maintenance schedule.

“Predominantly, we use it on the cricket square during the summer and on the rugby pitches during the winter months. It is such a quick machine – we can cut a cricket square in both directions in 42 minutes and a rugby pitch in less than 4 hours.

“We can use the ES-34R for about 7 hours before it needs charging. It is such a quick charge too – we put it on charge while we are having lunch and by the time we are finished, it is pretty much fully charged.

“The ES-34R always provides an equally as good cut, if not a better cut, than most cylinder mowers. Also, it works like a vacuum, so it is picking all the debris up as well. It is a highly efficient mower, leaves a brilliant finish.”

For further information or a no obligation demonstration, please contact Dennis 01332 824 777 or visit www.dennisuk.com

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

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Free online hub will mobilise communities for nature’s recovery

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Free online hub will mobilise communities for nature’s recovery: Today, The Wildlife Trusts launch a new online hub of step-by-step guides to empower people to take action for nature where they live and work.

The Nextdoor Nature Hub provides free advice for groups who want to start nature recovery projects at a grassroots level.

Free online hub will mobilise communities for nature’s recovery

Free online hub will mobilise communities for nature’s recovery

‘How to’ guides about nature action include advice on:

  • How to create a nature recovery group
  • Transforming unused land into a wildlife haven
  • Working across multiple languages and cultures
  • Getting funding and support from businesses
  • Publicity, media and events

View the Nextdoor Nature Hub at www.nextdoornaturehub.org.uk. The platform is designed to be accessible to all, using simple language and video explainers. Information is also available in Welsh.

People can also upload stories about what they are doing to help wildlife in their gardens, workplaces, and communities. The Wildlife Trusts want to inspire a domino rally of nature action, where people draw inspiration from others to embark on projects at home.

Nextdoor Nature is The Wildlife Trusts’ flagship community nature recovery programme and is funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund. Since it started last year, hundreds of groups have been supported to create community gardens and wilder neighbourhoods, building community spirit for people and providing habitats for wildlife.

Nikki Williams, Director of Campaigning and Communities at The Wildlife Trusts, says:

“Helping nature is something every individual or community can do, and when we come together it adds up to a big difference. The hub is a place where people can learn and be inspired by others. From creating wildlife corridors between gardens to wildflower meadows on disused land, you’ll be able to see what people are doing across the UK to transform nature-deprived places into havens for wildlife. We want to create a domino rally of activity, where people exchange and interpret ideas to give nature a boost where they live.”

Eilish McGuinness, Chief Executive of the National Lottery Heritage Fund, says:

“Nextdoor Nature has been a fantastic success in its first year, with so many communities across the UK firmly grasping the nettle to meet the challenge of transforming the neglected green spaces around them. I’m pleased that thanks to National Lottery players, there’s now a one-stop place where everyone can go for advice and inspiration. Here’s to an exciting summer of events to celebrate!”

The Nextdoor Nature Hub launches alongside a programme of more than fifty events taking place over two weeks, from Scotland to the Isles of Scilly. These events provide an opportunity for communities to celebrate what they have achieved since Nextdoor Nature started, as well as developing new ambitions for the future. The full programme is available at: wildlifetrusts.org/nextdoor-nature-events

By 2030, The Wildlife Trusts are aiming to enable at least 1 in 4 people taking action for nature. Nextdoor Nature is part of the charities’ work to engage people of all ages, identities, cultures, backgrounds and abilities, supporting them to value, enjoy, speak up and take action for wildlife.

Making the hub easy to understand is vital to ensure everyone can grasp the nature and climate crisis and take action at home. Approximately 1.5 million people have a learning disability in the UK and 4.5 million people do not have English or Welsh as their first language.

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SISIS Auto Rotorake essential for Prees

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SISIS Auto Rotorake essential for Prees: The SISIS Auto Rotorake MK5 is an ‘essential’ piece of equipment according to Duncan Austin, Head Groundsman at Prees Cricket and Recreation Club in Shropshire.

Prees Cricket and Recreation Club is one of Shropshire’s premier sports and community clubs. Set in beautiful countryside, the Club boasts excellent sports facilities and caters for local sports teams of all ages.

SISIS Auto Rotorake essential for Prees

SISIS Auto Rotorake essential for Prees

Duncan Austin is the man responsible for keeping the facilities in impeccable condition. He has been working at Prees for six years, but it was in his last position where he first became familiar with the SISIS Auto Rotorake MK5.

“I used to do the ground maintenance at a different cricket club for 18 years and we used a SISIS Rotorake there. I knew how good it was and I felt it was something we could really benefit from having here at Prees.

“We have had problems with a lot of thatch, and last year we paid a contractor to undertake a big thatch removal project. I think this also prompted us to go ahead and purchase the Auto Rotorake MK5, so that we don’t have to rely on outside help. Instead, we can keep on top of it and work towards gradually removing all the thatch.”

The SISIS Auto Rotorake MK5 is a powerful self-propelled heavy duty scarifier designed for the removal and control of thatch on fine turf. It is ideally suited to a range of applications from sports field maintenance to lawns and amenities and features several benefits including:

  • Contra-rotating reel with specially designed tipped blades for clean, consistent cut and maximum thatch removal.
  • Alternative blades for light scarifying.
  • Depth of cut adjustment control is mounted on the handle to enable depth to be set whilst moving forwards.
  • User-friendly, operator presence controls designed for maximum operator safety.
  • Easy-fit collector box.
  • 5hp petrol engine with independent drive to wheels and reel.
  • Careful weight distribution, slick tyres and full differential ensure ease of turning and minimal surface marking.

Duncan mainly uses it on the cricket pitch but will also use it on the bowls greens from time to time.

“One of the biggest benefits of using the MK5 on a cricket pitch is the contra-rotating reels, because if the scarifier turns the same way as the mower then it pushes and compacts the thatch. This just doesn’t happen with the MK5 and that is thanks to the contra-rotating reels.

“We have the brush reel which is really good for prepping before a match cut. It stands the grasses up and helps to give you a good clean cut straight after. We’ve also got the sarel roller/spiker and I like the fact that you can change the cassettes in next to no time.

“I would say that being able to use the Auto Rotorake MK5 for a wide range of tasks is its best feature. You can use it all year round whether it is for scarifying or brushing or using the spiker to keep the surface open.

“It is just a great machine.”

For further information or a no obligation demonstration, please contact SISIS on 01332 824 777 or visit www.sisis.com

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

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