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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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