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Fleet from Toro brings boost in productivity

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Fleet from Toro brings boost in productivity: Forres Golf Club in Moray, Scotland has gone all-in on Toro with a small fleet to optimise operations and do more with its experienced team of four. 

Before committing to a five-year hire purchase deal with Reesink Turfcare which allows the club to upgrade its machines regularly, Forres was using mowers from two different brands with mixed results across its 18-hole course.

Fleet from Toro brings boost in productivity

Fleet from Toro brings boost in productivity

Now, with the Toro Reelmaster 5010-H, two Greensmaster TriFlex 3400 and Workman MDX, Head Greenkeeper Ross Macleod is seeing improvements in productivity and operations and receiving compliments from members noticing the difference.

One of the reasons for the increase in productivity is how fast and convenient it is to change the cutting units in the Greensmaster TriFlex says Ross: “With the TriFlex, we can easily swap the cutting units without tools, quickly switching from greens to tees units to mow the different areas of the course. Previously, we were experiencing cutting inconsistencies due to using different machines and having to fine-tune the height of cut every time which led to excessive time wasting.

“Since using Toro, we’ve been far more productive. We can consistently mow multiple times without having to adjust the units. The set-up efficiency means we have finally freed up time because the team is spending less time in the sheds setting up the machines and has more time to be outside improving the course. We’re now getting round to doing all those small jobs that always seemed to be delayed, such as tidying up the bunkers and pathways.”

Ross has been at Forres for 29 years and as he and the team undertake a new rough management programme, he’s been particularly happy with the fuel efficiency provided by the Toro Reelmaster 5010-H.

He says: “Before we purchased the Reelmaster 5010-H, we used to cut the grass wall to wall, mowing all the roughs and fairways every week. Now, we are simply thinning out the roughs, allowing for the growth of wildflowers which enables us to cut less often and save manpower, man hours and fuel, which is just better in every way. The fact that the machine is a hybrid brings even more fuel-savings and its quality of cut really is outstanding.”

“All in all, we’re very happy with our new Toro machines,” Ross concludes. “They are elevating the quality of mowing, are incredibly comfortable to use, don’t require much maintenance and are helping us do much more with the same small team. What’s even better is it’s not just us noticing, the members have noticed the difference Toro has brought across the course, too.”

Discover how Toro’s technology could benefit your course by calling distributor Reesink Turfcare at 01480 226800, emailing info@reesinkturfcare.co.uk or visiting reesinkturfcare.co.uk.

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Good GKB deliveries come in three’s

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Good GKB deliveries come in three’s: A trio of GKB Machines have been installed at SCHLOSS Roxburghe Championship Golf Course, as part of major ongoing investment into the club and wider estate.

After being delivered by dealer Thomas Sherriff & Co in the summer of 2024, the SP100, SPM300 and GKB Combiseeder were put straight to task by Golf Course Manager Ross Ovens, as he and his team of 13 completed autumn renovations on greens, tees and approaches.

Good GKB deliveries come in three’s

Good GKB deliveries come in three’s

The Roxburghe is nestled in the heart of the Scottish Borders and is consistently ranked within the Top 10 Inland Courses in Scotland. Designed by the internationally renowned golf course architect Dave Thomas, the Par-72 parkland course and wider complex was sold in 2018 – with the new owners investing heavily in the on-site hotel, spa, lodges and golf course. “The property has changed massively, meaning we needed to invest in our greenkeeping equipment to produce the quality needed” comments Ross.

“In speaking with Dougie Archibald at Thomas Sherriff’s and GKB’s Tom Shinkins we really liked the fact that GKB is a family-owned business, and this feeds down into the level of care and detail put into their robust range of equipment.” Part of the fleet package, and replacing existing topdressers, was an SP100 and SPM300 from the GKB Sandspreader range. “These two machines work hand in hand brilliantly, giving us the versatility to dress greens as well as using the larger machine on the fairways. The SPM300 with material handler we’ve found particularly useful for topping up bunkers or loading material into the SP100 quickly and easily.”

He continues, “Our SP100 is mounted onto our John Deere Gator, and we have retrofitted this with a GPS system which has dramatically improved the accuracy and efficiency of topdressing operations. It gives us both the spread and quality we are looking for.”

Also delivered was a CS160. “With fewer chemicals available, and a desire to improve our sustainability credentials, it is more important than ever that we have a good overseeding programme in place. We didn’t have a seeder previously, so we demonstrated various models and opted for the GKB Combiseeder because – as a dimple seeder – we found it gave us better germination. This will be pivotal in our programme moving forwards as we try to introduce better cultivars into our surfaces, making us more resistant to disease and thereby lowering our reliance on chemicals.”

“The trio have recently played a big part in our autumn renovation works. We put down a good application and even distribution of sand, followed by overseeding as we pursue the ongoing improvement of our sward on the high wear areas of the course.” Ross concludes, “We’ve been delighted with the results we’ve achieved and the support we’ve had from Tom and from Thomas Sherriff’s before, during and after the purchase process.”

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SISGrass invests in Indian cricket

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SISGrass invests in Indian cricket: Hybrid cricket pitches have been installed at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association (HPCA) Stadium in Dharamshala, the first in what is expected to be a series of major projects across India in 2024 and beyond.

Completed by international sports pitches specialist SISGrass in partnership with Indian fine turf specialist company Greater Ten, the work represents the start of a drive towards improved playing surface quality and consistency at both amateur and professional levels, opening the nation’s most popular sport up to millions more people.

SISGrass invests in Indian cricket

SISGrass invests in Indian cricket

SISGrass’s investment in India follows a decision by the International Cricket Council to permit the use of hybrid surfaces for T20 and 50-over competition. After widespread success installing hybrids across English cricket grounds, the SIS team chose India as its next region of development. Paul Taylor, a former England international and SIS’s International Cricket Director, says the decision made sense for several reasons.

“India is home to millions of cricket fans, players and professionals who play almost all year round,” says Taylor. “This huge demand puts pressure on facilities, which can make it difficult for people to access good quality pitches in their local area. Our hybrid system will create far more opportunities for people to participate in the sport, guaranteeing a higher-quality of play at every level of competition.”

The Universal machine used in Dharamshala to install the hybrid surface was first developed by SISGrass in 2017. It injects a small percentage of polymer fibre with the natural turf found inside cricket stadiums. This composition is more resilient to stresses created during play, helping to prolong the life of pitches, guarantee an even bounce and ease pressure on busy groundspeople. Completed installations are predominantly natural grass, with only 5% of polymer fibre used. This ensures the characteristics of an all-natural pitch are maintained.

Speaking about the installation, Mr. R.P. Singh, Hony. President, HPCA, said, “The HPCA has consistently embraced the latest advances in cricket, and we believe SISGrass’s technology will be game-changing.

“Maintaining top-notch practice pitches is crucial for player development, as traditional surfaces struggle under the demands of rigorous training schedules. SISGrass’s integration of natural grass with synthetic fibres creates a robust and durable playing surface, ensuring players are prepared for competitive play. We are confident the installation will pave the way for a brighter future for Indian cricket, not just in Himachal Pradesh but across the nation.”

Hybrids have already been sanctioned by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) for T20 and 50-over competitions, and in 2024 they will be used in four-day County Championship matches for the first time. The Universal machine in India will now travel to Ahmedabad and Mumbai, where it will stitch more pitches for practice and match play.

The first machine of its kind, the Universal has already proven effective in the UK, having been used to install SISGrass at almost every major county ground in England. These include Lord’s, The Kia Oval, Edgbaston, Emirates Old Trafford, Trent Bridge, among many others. The machine will remain in India after the first three installations are complete, making it immediately available to other grounds and facilities as projects are approved.

Richard Gould, CEO of ECB, added: “Hybrid pitches have played an important role in enabling some venues to manage an increased amount of cricket during the English summer as the fixture list across men’s and women’s international and domestic cricket has grown.”

The introduction of hybrid pitches represents an important moment for India’s national game, which has championed T20 cricket through the IPL. These shorter formats have been one of the main drivers behind the development of hybrid surfaces, with more intense periods of play making it harder to prepare all-natural surfaces in time for top-level competition.

“Cricket is often associated with tradition but the installation of SISGrass in India is a milestone of progress,” adds Taylor. “Our hybrid pitches will allow for longer periods of play than is possible with all-natural surfaces, helping to maintain a base level of performance for millions of players across the country. But the technology will also potentially transform grassroots-level cricket, giving juniors the chance to play on the same surfaces found in major stadiums. Our expansion in India is an investment in the future of the game at all levels.”

HPCA has already installed SISAir – another specialist technology business that forms part of the wider SIS Pitches portfolio. SISAir is a sports pitch aeration system that optimises root zone growing conditions, creating stronger and more durable grass. During heavy rainfall, SISAir will also remove excess surface water using a series of pipework installed underneath a playing surface. The technology is used widely across major stadia, including Galatasaray’s Rams Park.

For more information on SISGrass, visit: https://www.sispitches.com/sports-pitches/hybrid/installation/cricket

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Origin Amenity Solutions Sponsors Wales in Bloom

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Origin Amenity Solutions Sponsors Wales in Bloom: Origin Amenity Solutions (OAS) is proud to announce its sponsorship of the City Category Award at the prestigious Wales in Bloom 2024 Award Ceremony, an event dedicated to celebrating bloom group’s achievements across Wales.

Wales in Bloom is a national element of the RHS Britain in Bloom Competition, working in partnership with the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) to promote environmental stewardship and community engagement through gardening projects whilst supporting and enhancing their local communities, parks, and green spaces.

Origin Amenity Solutions Sponsors Wales in Bloom

Origin Amenity Solutions Sponsors Wales in Bloom

A voluntary organisation, Wales in Bloom, plays a crucial role in encouraging communities to take pride in their surroundings. By supporting the RHS “It’s Your Neighbourhood” campaign, which this year attracted 130 entries from across Wales, Wales in Bloom reinforces its mission to “Help Communities Grow” by inspiring voluntary efforts to improve local environments.

OAS is honoured to support such an important initiative, recognising the significant impact that Wales in Bloom has in fostering community spirit and enhancing the natural environment. The City Category Award, sponsored by OAS, was presented at the Wales in Bloom Annual Award Ceremony 2024, held in Abergavenny on Friday, 13th September. The ceremony was hosted by Abergavenny in Bloom, and OAS co-presented the award alongside Peter Barton-Price, Chairman of Wales in Bloom.

Peter Barton-Price, expressed his gratitude for the support of OAS, stating, “We are delighted that Origin Amenity Solutions sponsored the Wales in Bloom Main City Category Award this year.  Their commitment to environmental sustainability and community engagement aligns perfectly with our mission. The support of companies like OAS is invaluable in helping us achieve our goals.”

OAS also supplies Euroflor Flower seed mixes, which have been incorporated into numerous neighbourhood schemes throughout Wales, creating colourful and visually appealing green spaces and promoting biodiversity. This collaboration with Wales in Bloom reflects OAS’s dedication to supporting initiatives that enrich local communities and contribute to the overall well-being of the environment.

Wales in Bloom continues to work in partnership with the RHS, voluntary sectors, bloom and environmental groups, the tourism sector along with industries such as Transport for Wales to promote sustainable practices and community involvement. The City Category Award, sponsored by OAS recognises the outstanding efforts of cities across Wales and highlights the importance of collective action in creating vibrant, biodiverse, and sustainable communities.

For more information on Wales in Bloom and how your group could get involved email campaign@walesinbloom.org for further details.

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Engagement in GMA’s training and qualification increases

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Engagement in GMA’s training and qualification increases: The Grounds Management Association (GMA), the UK’s leading organisation for the grounds management industry, has seen a 43% rise in uptake of its training compared to this time last year.

This follows a challenging season for many sports. Over the past 12 months, the GMA saw enquiries related to flooding surge, coinciding with increased rainfall that was up 147% on the long-term average in some parts of the country.

In the North East of England, football clubs needing support because of water-logged pitches were up 244%. And 80% of rugby union clubs have had drainage issues this year compared to 50% last year.

Jason Booth, chief operating officer of the GMA, says: “We know last year was a tough season for many. More extreme weather means the challenges in our industry are getting greater. It’s time to focus on knowledge and skills to get ahead of the game so it’s essential clubs invest in their pitches and grounds teams.

“The GMA’s unique suite of training and qualifications are designed to help groundspeople advance their knowledge and skills – including courses specifically geared towards the new challenges faced in winter sports, like football, rugby league and rugby union.

“Our training is designed with the help of industry experts and supported by national governing bodies, including The FA, ECB, RFL and Sport England. We’re also the only industry association to be accredited by the Department of Education’s matrix Standard.

“As well as in person training, there are also plenty of online courses, perfect for busy professionals and volunteers who want to enhance their turf maintenance knowledge from anywhere.

“Grow your knowledge today, head over to our website and check out the training and qualifications we’ve got available.”

Discover the wide range of easy-to-access, high-quality training courses on the GMA website: https://thegma.org.uk/learning/training

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Embracing Sustainability in Amenity Management

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Embracing Sustainability in Amenity Management: BASIS is pleased to announce the launch of its new online course series, ‘The Principles of Sustainable Amenity Management’. In the realm of amenity management, embracing sustainability is not merely a trend—it’s a necessity. 

Developed in collaboration with key stakeholders, including esteemed former Amenity Forum Chair John Moverley, this self-paced, four-part course offers an in-depth exploration of essential topics such as policy, biodiversity, water and air pollution management, and integrated approaches. All modules are available via BASIS Classroom, providing a comprehensive and flexible learning experience for professionals in the amenity sector.

Embracing Sustainability in Amenity Management

Embracing Sustainability in Amenity Management

The Principles of Sustainable Amenity Management Online Learning Package

The course is divided into four key modules. Each module can be purchased individually, and participants who complete all four will receive access to a fifth module—a FREE online toolbox kit. This bonus module includes relevant case studies, guides, and the opportunity to take a BASIS-certified assessment.

By enrolling in this course, participants will gain essential knowledge and insights to advance their professional growth. Here’s why individuals at all levels of the amenity sector should consider enrolling:

  1. Understanding Policy & Sustainability in the Amenity Sector Navigate the complex landscape of policies, legislation, and guidance, gaining essential insights from the UK National Action Plan to codes of practice. Participants will build a strong foundation crucial for delivering sustainability.
  2. Building Biodiversity for Amenity Environmental Management Managing amenity areas goes beyond aesthetics; it involves ensuring balanced ecosystems. This module covers habitat management, biodiversity, net gain, and sustainable soil and water management, with expert input from Dr Christian Spring.
  3. Managing Water and Air Pollution in the Amenity Environment As environmental concerns grow, so does the need for effective pollution management. This course provides tools to identify and mitigate pollutants, emphasising sustainable alternatives and evaluating practices through Life Cycle Analysis (LCA).
  4. Planning Integrated Approaches in Amenity Situations Effective weed, pest, and disease management are critical components of amenity management. This module explores integrated approaches and the pillars of successful implementation, enhanced with practical examples and expert insights.
  5. Sustainable Amenity Practice in Action – Case Studies, Assessments & Certification FREE upon completion of the first four modules. This final module ties everything together with relevant case studies, toolkits, and an online assessment, leading to a BASIS certification and additional CPD points.

Through these modules, participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of sustainable practices in the amenity sector. Designed for professionals seeking to deepen their understanding and implementation of sustainable management practices, this course caters to a diverse audience, from seasoned industry veterans to newcomers, including landscape managers, groundskeepers, and environmental consultants. No previous experience or qualifications are required to complete this course.

For further information and to enrol in the course, visit basis-classroom.co.uk/courses/amenity and see the full series. BASIS Professional Register members will have access to the first module through their membership.

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Paxster eCompact Air launched in the UK

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Paxster eCompact Air launched in the UK: UK distributor, BOSS ORV has introduced the new Paxster eCompact Air, a Norwegian, electric, and stylish alternative to traditional utility vehicles. Paxster is the leading Norwegian manufacturer of compact electric vehicles and the eCompact Air continues the tradition of its utility series, offering both new and refurbished models with up to 110 km (68.3 miles) of range.

It follows over a decade of Paxster’s commitment to innovation in electric vehicle technology, providing small, efficient vehicles used for delivering post and parcels to thousands of homes. This latest model retains all the excellent features of its predecessors but introduces a bolder, more robust design.

Paxster eCompact Air launched in the UK

Paxster eCompact Air launched in the UK

“We understand that design matters, whether the vehicle is for work or personal use. That’s why we’ve crafted a stylish design without compromising the versatility and high-quality features,” says Aleksander Säfvenbom, CEO of Paxster AS.

Described as rugged elegance with an eco-smart design, the eCompact Air offers quiet efficiency with the electric vehicle’s silent drive. A maximum power of 7.48 kW from battery type LiFePo4 combines with a 2×4 RWD drivetrain featuring enhanced traction. It has a crisp, responsive feel with a snappy performance that’s smooth yet energetic and perfect for everyday driving and task completion. The ride is comfortable with a fully adjustable seat, excellent side support, and built to withstand rough use in all-weather conditions. Access is easy, with no barriers to negotiate. The ergonomic handlebars feature minimal switches and there are optional heated grips. Homologated for road use, the eCompact Air has LED front lights for optimal illumination. There’s plenty of storage area with a spacious cargo bed, versatile front trunk, and lockable side pockets.

“This latest addition to the Paxster range we offer in the UK is incredibly versatile,” says BOSS ORV MD Phil Everett. “They’re tough little vehicles suited to work anywhere from horticulture, groundscare, construction and equestrian to agriculture, estates, and leisure.”

In the field, the eCompact Air can be used to power tools and equipment, delivering up to 3000 watts of onboard electricity. Hitch systems front and rear allow for a variety of attachments and there is a wide range of accessories available. Paxster vehicles come with a three-year commercial warranty and a five-year battery warranty. There is a special launch offer, with a saving of £2,620.00 on orders before 1st October 2024.

For more information you can call 01785 561046 E-mail: sales@bossorv.co.uk Web: www.bossorv.co.uk

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RHS Chelsea Flower Show garden beds in at London school

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RHS Chelsea Flower Show garden beds in at London school: The first ever RHS Chelsea Flower Show garden designed by and for children has been relocated to its permanent home at Sulivan Primary School in southwest London.

The RHS No Adults Allowed Garden was designed by pupils from the school and award-winning garden designer Harry Holding and was visited by HRH King Charles III and Queen Camilla. Reimagined to suit its new setting in the school grounds, the unique garden will now be a lasting feature for pupils to explore, learn and play in, as well as take care of.

RHS Chelsea Flower Show garden beds in at London school

RHS Chelsea Flower Show garden beds in at London school

Nearly all elements from the original show garden have been transferred to the school, with the exception of the stream and rock pool. Instead, the subterranean den is set within a sea of wildflowers and has been reimagined by treehouse builders Root and Shoot into a sustainable climbing frame using timber from RHS Garden Wisley and rubber from waste material. Sculptural clay elements, crafted by land artist Finbar Ward and decorated by pupils, which previously adorned a wall within the show garden have now been positioned on the façade of the school itself.

As part of the relocation, the layout of the show garden has been adapted to suit the school’s setting, which is surrounded by a number of mature trees.  A path through the garden separates two distinct areas; one is low intervention with a wildflower meadow, a composting zone and dead hedges which provide habitats for wildlife, while the more cultivated side of the garden is packed with a variety of bold and colourful summer plants including kniphofias and gladioli, as well as edibles such as strawberries.

Wendy Aldridge, Headteacher at Sulivan Primary School, said: “We are so excited to welcome the RHS No Adults Allowed Garden to its new home. This garden will be a fantastic resource for our pupils, allowing them to develop hands-on gardening skills and a deeper appreciation for the natural world. It provides a unique, interactive space where children can learn about biodiversity, sustainability, and the importance of caring for our environment. The collaborative process of designing and now maintaining the garden has been invaluable, fostering a strong sense of community and pride within our school.”

Harry Holding, Award-winning Garden Designer, said: “It has been such a joy to work on
this momentous project and reimagining the show garden for its permanent home has been every bit as enjoyable as preparing it for the RHS Chelsea Flower Show. Seeing the pupils’ excitement as they interact with the garden, both in its original form and now in its new home, has been incredibly rewarding. In its new location, the design benefits from more space, lots of mature trees, and plenty of environments to explore. This garden will provide endless opportunities for discovery and learning, and will live on to benefit thousands of children and families from the local community for years to come. I am very much looking forward to seeing how it evolves with the students’ care and creativity.”

Alana Cama, RHS Senior Learning Manager, said: “The RHS is committed to nurturing a love of gardening in children and creating opportunities for them to engage with nature in a meaningful way. By involving pupils in the design and maintenance of the garden, they have quickly cultivated a sense of responsibility and connection to the environment. We’re excited to follow the progress of the garden and to see how it inspires a love of gardening amongst the school’s pupils for years to come. This project exemplifies our mission to make gardening accessible and enjoyable for all ages, and we are thrilled to see it find a permanent home at Sulivan Primary School.”

Sulivan Primary School is a member of the RHS Campaign for School Gardening which provides teachers with free resources and training, designed to help them give more children the opportunity to learn about caring for plants and our planet through gardening, while connecting with nature and boosting their wellbeing. The RHS is committed to fostering a love of gardening across generations and ensuring that it is an accessible activity for everyone.

For information on how to get involved with the RHS Campaign for School Gardening visit: https://schoolgardening.rhs.org.uk

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Three in a row at TIMBERSPORTS® Championship

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Three in a row at TIMBERSPORTS® Championship: The STIHL TIMBERSPORTS® British Championship delivered another weekend of edge-of-your-seat action at the Royal Three Counties Show in Malvern, with Glen Penlington securing his third Pro Championship title in style.

Competition for places was fierce, so the action kicked off on Friday with the Pro Championship qualifier. Five of the lowest ranked athletes from the 2023 British Championship, along with nine up-and-coming competitors took to the stage. With the top six athletes earning the right to take part in the 2024 British Pro Championship on Saturday, tensions were running high. But the top six all put in solid performances to progress through with Ben Chapman taking the top spot, closely followed by John Tunstall and Joe Groom.

Three in a row at TIMBERSPORTS® Championship

Three in a row at TIMBERSPORTS® Championship

Saturday’s action delivered more thrilling heats, and reigning champion Glen Penlington had his sights firmly set on securing his third Championship title in a row. Focussing first on the Underhand Chop, Penlington delivered an impressive start recording a time of 25.89 seconds, closely followed by his biggest rival for the title, 2014 champion Rob Chatley. And this excellent form continued throughout the competition, with Penlington achieving the fastest times in all five out of the six disciplines, and earning himself three personal bests in the process.

It was only the Stock Saw where Penlington didn’t get maximum points, but it did deliver a national record, courtesy of George Spencer. Spencer almost set a new British record in the Hot Saw too with a blistering time of 7.39 seconds, but the excitement was soon over, when judge Andy Hall disqualified him for an incomplete cookie.

In the end, Penlington’s dominance was obvious, with a 24 point advantage over second placed athlete Rob Chatley, to complete the hat trick of Championship wins. “I can’t quite believe I managed to win five of the disciplines this time. I think I got a bit lucky with the wood compared to some of the others, but it’s brilliant to be the champion again,” said Penlington after the competition. Graham Turner from Scotland completed the podium with a third place finish.

With the Pro championship wrapped up, all eyes turned to the competitions on the Sunday, starting with the British Women’s Championship. 2023 champion Justine Narusa was the one to beat, but a bad start to the competition with disqualification in the Stock Saw got worse after she ran out of time in the Standing Block Chop.

Instead, Felixia Banck from Denmark, newcomer Rachel Ferrington, and the youngest competitor, 17-year-old Libby Arrowsmith were the athletes to watch with solid performances from all three of them, including a new Danish national record for Felixia in the Stock Saw. Banck’s experience in logger sports ultimately saw her take the overall win, but Arrowsmith turned heads to take second place as the top-ranked British woman. Ferrington also impressed in her first ever TIMBERSPORTS® competition, taking third place overall.

Finally, it was the Rookies’ turn to take to the stage. 2023 Rookie champion Jack Morris was feeling confident going into the competition, having recently achieved a sixth placed finish at the Rookie World Championship in Milan in May. And his confidence was not misplaced, as he stormed through all four disciplines getting maximum points in the Underhand Chop, Single Buck and Standing Block Chop.

In his last year competing as a Rookie before he moves up to the Pro league, Morris certainly went out on a high beating his nearest rival and fellow axe club member, Zac Powell, by six points. Powell was pleased with his own results though, after achieving two personal best times in the Stock Saw and Standing Block Chop and improving on his fourth placed finish in 2023. The final spot on the Rookie podium was taken by Rowan Luxton, who also managed to jump up the rankings after finishing fifth in 2023.

After a thrilling weekend of extreme sport action, focus now switches to the World Championship in Toulouse, France in November. Penlington will have to wait until later in the year to find out if he has done enough to qualify for the Individual competition, but the tricky task of selecting the athletes to compete in the Team World Championship starts now.

“All three competitions this weekend were packed full of excitement and drama,” said Vicky Tween, TIMBERSPORTS® manager at STIHL GB, “but it’s onwards and upwards now for the athletes who make the British team. They will be laser-focussed on training to make sure they do their country proud.”

For full results from the weekend’s competitions, visit the STIHL TIMBERSPORTS® database.

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Acuspray keeps large lawns in tip-top condition

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Acuspray keeps large lawns in tip-top condition: For professional arable farmer Michael Godfrey, investing in accurate, reliable and efficient spraying equipment that delivers excellent results is always important – regardless of whether he’s running his agricultural business, Godfrey Farms, or simply spraying the extensive lawns which surround the family home.

Michael, based near Bluntisham in Cambridgeshire, is very much “hands-on” in running the family farming business, so time – or lack of it – is his biggest challenge when it comes to maintaining the significant area of manicured lawn that makes up the bulk of his garden.

Acuspray keeps large lawns in tip-top condition

Acuspray keeps large lawns in tip-top condition

Michael says” Although I’d never describe myself as a professional groundsman, I am a keen gardener and with several hundred square meters of fine lawn to maintain, a traditional knapsack sprayer simply doesn’t offer the capacity or accuracy level I require.

“In the 1990’s I worked closely with Techneat Engineering to help them manufacture the Autocast V2, a broadcasting system for oilseed rape and cover crops that I originally designed, so I’m well aware of their reputation for manufacturing high quality machinery. When Techneat Technical Manager James English approached me to trial the companies’ Acuspray pedestrian sprayer, I was more than happy to work with them again.

“The machine is lightweight, quick to set up and easy to use featuring a unique wheel driven pump that produces an accurate, repeatable application rate for applying a wide range of liquid fertilisers, moss treatments and other turfcare products. Key design features include a 1m spray width boom and a 25L tank capacity, enough to cover 625m2 of lawn.

“Overall build quality on the Acuspray is excellent with non-drip nozzle valves and nozzle filters fitted as standard. Additional options include bout markers, a boom cover and a spray control lever. The machine is virtually noise-free, meaning I can use it early in the morning or in the evening without disturbing anyone in the house and the productivity, ease of use and accuracy of the Acuspray is far superior to a knapsack sprayer.

“There’ve been no maintenance issues since I acquired the Acuspray, it has a high level of build quality, it’s quiet, simple to operate and for a large garden like mine where frequent lawn treatments are required, it’s the perfect pedestrian sprayer” concludes Michael.

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