Tag Archive for: Irrigation

Hunter Irrigation Delivers Turf Excellence for Blackpool FC

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Hunter Irrigation Delivers Turf Excellence for Blackpool FC: Blackpool FC has seen major improvements to both its stadium and training ground facilities following the installation of a new Hunter irrigation system, supplied by KAR UK and installed by Arden Lea Irrigation.

Head Groundsman Paul Flynn, who has been with the club for nearly five years, explained how the Hunter products have transformed operations, saving time, improving turf quality, and supporting player performance.

Hunter Irrigation Delivers Turf Excellence for Blackpool FC

Hunter Irrigation Delivers Turf Excellence for Blackpool FC

Before the installation, Paul and his team relied on standpipes and travelling sprinklers – a process that was time-consuming and inefficient.

“We were wasting 20 to 25 hours a week just watering pitches by hand,” Paul said. “I told the club they’d get that time back within a year if we invested in irrigation – and that’s exactly what has happened.”

The first phase began at the training ground, with irrigation now fully operational across the main pitches and the sports science area. At the stadium, work is ongoing, with Hunter I80-ON sprinklers already replacing older, underperforming units.

Blackpool’s system includes the Hunter ACC2 Controller with Centralus, the Hunter GT-885, and the Hunter I80-ON sprinklers.

The ACC2 Controller with Centralus allows Paul and his deputy to manage irrigation directly from their phones or via a roaming remote, giving them ultimate flexibility.

“We can press a button and water exactly where we want, whenever we want,” Paul explained. “It makes growing, training preparation, and recovery so simple. We’ve now got around 62 heads across the site, so we can literally water every blade of grass.”

The Hunter I80-ON heads, installed at Bloomfield Road Stadium, have already improved coverage and performance compared to the old system. The GT-885 sprinklers at the training ground provide strength, durability, and easy access for maintenance – crucial for a high-use facility.

The improvements in irrigation have gone beyond aesthetics, directly impacting player welfare and training quality.

“Before, some areas were rock hard, which contributed to calf and hamstring injuries,” said Paul. “Now we can keep surfaces consistent, which makes a huge difference for performance and safety.”

Managers have also benefitted, with the ability to prepare pitches to replicate match conditions.

“The current manager says the best thing is that the training pitches now resemble the stadium pitch,” Paul added. “It means we can mirror match situations and even put the sprinklers on during sessions to improve ball speed – something we could never do before.”

Paul credited both KAR UK and Arden Lea Irrigation for their expertise and support throughout the project.

“My relationship with Wes and Lee at KAR UK goes back years, and I know I can always rely on them,” he said. “Arden Lea are also brilliant – I just pick up the phone and they’re here the next day. Between the two of them, the whole process has been faultless.”

The old irrigation kit has even been donated to Blackpool Cricket Club, strengthening community ties and ensuring wider benefit from the project.

With the training ground fully upgraded and stadium improvements ongoing, Paul believes Hunter irrigation will continue to play a vital role in Blackpool FC’s future.

“The health of the pitches has never been better,” he said. “It’s more efficient, saves us time, and helps the players perform. Honestly, I can’t fault the system at all.”

For more information, please visit www.karuk.com

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Precision Irrigation, Smarter Water Management at GroundsFest

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Precision Irrigation, Smarter Water Management at GroundsFest: KAR UK is one of the UK’s leading distributors of professional irrigation and water management solutions – trusted by landscapers, contractors, sports turf professionals, and local authorities nationwide.

With decades of experience and unrivalled technical know-how, KAR UK is the exclusive UK distributor for Hunter Industries and represents a portfolio of premium global brands renowned for performance, reliability, and innovation.

Precision Irrigation, Smarter Water Management at GroundsFest

Precision Irrigation, Smarter Water Management at GroundsFest

At this year’s GroundsFest, KAR UK will showcase an impressive line-up of intelligent solutions from Hunter, Amiad, Bermad, Kasco and Tricoflex – delivering everything from automated irrigation systems and weather-based controllers to advanced filtration, pumps, valves, durable pipework, hoses, and cutting-edge micro-irrigation technologies.

What sets KAR UK apart is its commitment to helping customers design and implement efficient, future-ready irrigation systems. With deep technical expertise, large UK stockholding, and fast nationwide delivery, the team works closely with professionals to provide bespoke solutions tailored to every project.

From smart controllers that adjust watering schedules based on weather data to energy-efficient pumps and robust filtration systems, the products on display at GroundsFest represent the very best in water-saving technology. With sustainability and precision at the forefront, KAR UK is helping the industry adopt smarter, greener irrigation practices.

Visit KAR UK on Stand 22 in Hall 1 at GroundsFest 2025 to explore the full range, see the latest innovations, and speak directly with experts who can guide you through every stage of your irrigation projects.

For more information, please visit www.karuk.com

You can also follow KAR UK on X and Instagram @KARUK_LTD for much more news, reviews and insightful views.

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Hunter Irrigation Makes an Instant Impact

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Hunter Irrigation Makes an Instant Impact: Keith Porter, Grounds Manager at Leigh Sports Village in Greater Manchester, is celebrating his 18th year at the helm of one of the UK’s fastest-developing sporting venues – and with the installation of a new Hunter irrigation system supplied and supported by KAR UK, he’s now seeing the benefits of precision technology across every blade of grass.

The new system has delivered a game-changing level of control and consistency for Keith and his dedicated six-person grounds team. Installed by Irrigation Control as part of a major hybrid pitch redevelopment in June last year, the Hunter system includes GT-885 and I-80-ON sprinklers designed to deliver performance, reliability, total top serviceability, and full even coverage of the pitch. It is combined with the ACC2 controller and Centralus software.

Hunter Irrigation Makes an Instant Impact

Hunter Irrigation Makes an Instant Impact

“We’d seen the technology at the BTME event in Harrogate and knew it was a step up,” says Keith. “You can access the heads without digging up the pitch – which is massive on a hybrid surface – and the throw from the heads is brilliant. With the I-80s, even the central sprinklers reach right out to the touchline. We’ve now got 100% coverage, and that makes a huge difference.”

Previously, uneven watering created inconsistency in turf condition, with areas occasionally drying out and underperforming. The new system has eradicated that issue.

“With the old irrigation system, it was hit and miss – now it’s perfectly even. No dry patches, no burning off. It’s not just about aesthetics, it’s about performance and safety too. Even in windy conditions, the whole playing surface is getting what it needs. It’s transformed our matchday prep.”

Leigh Sports Village – home to rugby league club Leigh Leopards and Manchester United’s Women’s and Development teams – has experienced a steady rise in profile and popularity, with regular games, training sessions, and even film shoots becoming part of the busy schedule.

The small team manage far more than just the stadium pitch – the entire site includes additional grass and synthetic pitches, a leisure centre, hotel, supermarket, and even a college campus. Despite the workload, Keith credits the investment in technology and ongoing support as vital to keeping up with demand.

“We’re left to manage things ourselves, and we’ve always had the backing when we’ve made a case for investment,” he explains. “The irrigation system was another example of the council trusting us to choose the right tools for the job.”

Control and ease of use have also proven key benefits. With Hunter’s Centralus control system, the team can operate the irrigation from anywhere – even at home – via smartphone, handheld remote, or laptop.

“It’s really simple. Any of the lads can pick it up and use it,” Keith adds. “You can run individual heads or sections for spot treatments or liquid feeding. You’re not restricted to a one-size-fits-all cycle – it’s totally flexible. That saves water, time, and effort.”

Hunter Irrigation Makes an Instant Impact

Hunter Irrigation Makes an Instant Impact

KAR UK, the UK’s leading supplier of Hunter irrigation equipment, played a key role throughout the project. Their technical support and advice proved instrumental in the system’s successful integration.

“Lee Williams from KAR UK has been great,” says Keith. “He was involved right from the start and has always been on the end of the phone. Any advice we needed, he was there. It’s been a smooth process.”

With the stadium pitch now fully covered and performing better than ever, Keith is already looking at future upgrades. “Our external pitches are older systems, but as heads start to go, we’ll be replacing them with Hunter – it’s the way forward.”

As Leigh Sports Village continues its impressive rise, Keith’s team – and their irrigation – are keeping pace.

“With the Hunter system in place, we’ve got confidence in the coverage. It’s made a big difference,” Keith concludes.

For more information, please visit www.karuk.com

You can also follow KAR UK on X and Instagram @KARUK_LTD for much more news, reviews and insightful views.

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Hindley Hall Upgrades Irrigation Efficiency with KAR UK

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Hindley Hall Upgrades Irrigation Efficiency with KAR UK: Hindley Hall Golf Club, a hidden gem nestled in the Northwest of England has invested in a state-of-the-art Hunter irrigation system supplied by KAR UK.

The system, featuring the Hunter ACC2 controller and TTS-800 Series Golf Rotors, has already had a transformative impact on the course, providing better water efficiency, improved turf quality, and an enhanced playing experience for members.

Hindley Hall Upgrades Irrigation Efficiency with KAR UK

Hindley Hall Upgrades Irrigation Efficiency with KAR UK

Hindley Hall Golf Club is a compact 18-hole course spread across 96 acres, with undulating greens and narrow fairways that offer a deceptively challenging round for golfers. Despite its relatively small size, the course poses unique challenges for Course Manager Andrew Birchall and his team, particularly due to the region’s high annual rainfall and predominantly clay-based soil.

Andrew, who has been at Hindley Hall for 15 years – 10 years as Deputy and the last 5 years as Course Manager – is dedicated to ensuring the course remains playable and in top condition, and that is why upgrading the aging irrigation system became a priority.

Prior to the installation, Hindley Hall’s irrigation system was failing, particularly at the sprinkler level. “It was putting too much water out in the wrong places, and we were really struggling to get water onto the greens when we needed to,” Andrew said.

Recognising the need for a modern, efficient system, Andrew opted for the Hunter ACC2 controller and TTS-800 Series Golf Rotors, which were installed by his own team. “We did everything in-house, which was a challenge, but it’s something we believe in – if we can be self-sustainable, we will be.”

The Hunter ACC2 controller, which allows remote management via mobile and desktop applications, has given Andrew and his team the flexibility to manage the irrigation system with ease. “The remote control is a game-changer. My deputy and I can control the system from anywhere – if I’m not at the course and there’s a sudden change in weather, I can adjust the irrigation instantly.”

This newfound control has also streamlined feeding the greens, saving both time and effort.

“In the past, if we applied a granular feed, we’d have to wait for a forecasted night of rain to wash it in. Now, if there’s no rain on the horizon, I can simply switch the irrigation on from my mobile as I’m going around,” Andrew explained. “It’s brilliant. Everything’s at your fingertips. As I’m feeding one green, I can turn the one behind me on to wash in the feed that’s just gone down. I can get it done at six o’clock in the morning without affecting play – no disruption at all.”

Furthermore, the controller integrates with a weather station to prevent unnecessary watering. “If the system detects more than an 85% chance of rain, it automatically shuts off the scheduled irrigation,” he states.

The TTS-800 Series Golf Rotors have also been a revelation for the course. “What I love most is that they’re totally top serviceable,” Andrew said. “If there’s an issue, we don’t have to dig up the entire sprinkler or disturb play. We just take the cover off, make the fix, and we’re done.”

The new system has delivered measurable improvements in water efficiency and turf quality. “We’re seeing around a 30% reduction in water usage because we’re putting less water out but delivering it exactly where it’s needed. The greens are getting more water without the wastage, and the uniformity is unbelievable.”

This precision has also improved playability, as the greens remain firm yet receptive. “In the past, some greens would dry out and become non-receptive to golf balls, but now we’re maintaining that fine balance between firmness and playability.”

KAR UK’s support, particularly from Wesley Henshaw (Golf Sales Manager), was instrumental during the installation process. “Wes was brilliant,” Andrew remarked. “He sent us the products exactly when we needed them, talked us through everything, and was always on hand if we encountered any issues. He knows the challenges we face because he’s been in our shoes, having worked in golf course construction and irrigation installations.”

As Hindley Hall continues its commitment to providing an exceptional golfing experience, the partnership with KAR UK and Hunter is proving to be a winning combination.

For more information, please visit www.karuk.com

You can also follow KAR UK on X and Instagram @KARUK_LTD for much more news, reviews and insightful views.

For the latest industry news visit turfmatters.co.uk/news

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Revolutionising Sports Turf Irrigation

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Revolutionising Sports Turf Irrigation: Keeping UK sports fields in pristine condition is no easy feat, but Landscape Watering Systems Limited is making it simpler and more efficient than ever. As one of the UK’s leading distributors of Rain Bird irrigation products, the company is bringing the latest in smart irrigation technology to the nation’s sporting arenas — delivering next-level performance, precision, and sustainability.

At the heart of this offering is a suite of cutting-edge Rain Bird products: the IVM (Integrated Valve Module) control system, the powerful 11000 Series Rotors, and the intuitive IQ4 Central Control platform. Together, these technologies are setting a new benchmark for irrigation management on sports turf.

Revolutionising Sports Turf Irrigation

Revolutionising Sports Turf Irrigation

A Smarter Approach to Irrigation

Simon Edginton, Director at Landscape Watering Systems Limited, believes these innovations come at the perfect time for the UK’s sports turf sector.

“We are committed to providing UK sports facilities with the most advanced tools to ensure optimal playing conditions,” Edginton explains. “Rain Bird’s IVM, 11000 Series, and IQ4 represent a significant leap forward, offering the precision, efficiency, and ease of management that turf professionals need to keep fields at their best.”

The Technology Making It Happen

Rain Bird IVM – Integrated Valve Module
At the core of this modernisation is the IVM system, which replaces traditional decoders in 2-wire systems with a “smart solenoid” that communicates directly with the controller. This streamlined design simplifies installation, lowers material and labour costs, and delivers real-time diagnostics — a major asset when fast troubleshooting is essential. With its increased reliability and responsiveness, the IVM helps groundskeepers maintain consistent, high-quality pitch conditions.

Rain Bird 11000 Series Rotors – Built for Performance
Designed specifically for sports fields and large turf areas, the 11000 Series rotors deliver powerful, even coverage with a throw radius of up to 32 metres. Their robust build ensures long-term durability, while the minimal exposed surface reduces interference during play. Fewer heads are required thanks to their wide coverage, translating into cost savings on installation and maintenance.

Rain Bird IQ4 Central Control – Control at Your Fingertips
The IQ4 platform offers grounds teams a comprehensive control centre for their irrigation operations. With weather-based scheduling, evapotranspiration (ET) adjustments, remote access, and detailed reporting, IQ4 enables precise and proactive water management. Its user-friendly interface puts full system visibility in the hands of groundskeepers, helping them make informed decisions quickly — whether managing a single pitch or an entire complex.

Why It Matters for Sports Facilities

These new technologies aren’t just about saving time and water — they’re about raising the standard of sports field care. Facilities can expect a wide range of benefits, including:

  • Superior Turf Health: Precision irrigation ensures even watering, promoting vigorous, resilient grass that can withstand intense play.
  • Water Conservation: Smart controls and efficient hardware reduce waste and align with sustainability targets.
  • Lower Maintenance: Fewer components, streamlined troubleshooting, and robust design all help minimise downtime.
  • Remote Oversight: With IQ4, irrigation schedules can be monitored and adjusted from anywhere — a game-changer for complex sites.
  • Cost Effectiveness: Reduced water usage, lower installation costs, and fewer maintenance demands result in long-term savings.

A Trusted Partner for Irrigation Excellence

With decades of industry expertise, Landscape Watering Systems Limited continues to support turf professionals with innovative products and hands-on support. As UK sports venues face increasing pressure to improve efficiency and environmental performance, the company’s latest offerings provide a powerful edge.

About Landscape Watering Systems Limited
Landscape Watering Systems Limited is a leading UK distributor of professional irrigation products. Serving the sports turf, landscape, and amenity sectors, the company is known for its technical expertise and commitment to delivering tailored solutions that meet the evolving needs of grounds professionals.

About Rain Bird Corporation
Founded in 1933, Rain Bird Corporation is a global leader in irrigation systems. With a strong focus on The Intelligent Use of Water™, Rain Bird designs products that conserve water while promoting healthier environments in landscapes, agriculture, and public spaces around the world.

For the latest industry news visit turfmatters.co.uk/news

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