Tag Archive for: School

Future-Proofed Irrigation at Bedford School

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Future-Proofed Irrigation at Bedford School: Bedford School’s cricket facilities have undergone a significant transformation following the installation of a fully automated Hunter irrigation system, supplied by KAR UK and installed by JK Irrigation. The upgrade has not only boosted efficiency but also future-proofed the grounds for continued development over the next decade.

At the heart of the new system is the Hunter ACC2 controller, complete with an internet module that gives Head Groundsman George Mills and his team full remote access. Each grounds team member is responsible for a different area, and thanks to the Centralus platform, they can now manage their irrigation schedules from their phones, no matter where they are.

Future-Proofed Irrigation at Bedford School

Future-Proofed Irrigation at Bedford School

“We’ve got all the grounds team set up with their own logins,” George explained. “Chris, my deputy, manages the first team square, Glenn looks after the second team square, Anthony does the grass nets, and I focus on the smaller third team square. That bit of ownership means everyone really takes pride in their area – and yes, there’s a bit of healthy competition too!”

The system features Hunter G-800 TTS valve-in-head sprinklers around the main cricket squares and Hunter I-25 sprinklers for the smaller areas. Two 25,000-litre tanks water storage tanks and a Lowara pump system, controlled via an integrated unit, ensure powerful and consistent pressure – around seven bar – which is a dramatic improvement on the school’s previous setup.

“Our mains pressure was poor – barely one bar,” George said. “Before, we were moving a single sprinkler eight to ten times just to get coverage. Now we can water the first team square in 15 to 20 minutes at night when it’s more efficient and better for the plant.”

Two thousand metres of pipework now runs beneath the surface, installed by JK Irrigation with help from the in-house team for reinstatement works. The installation also includes 13 strategically placed water boxes across the site, all configured to accommodate future system expansion.

“We’ve designed this with the long term in mind,” George added. “We’re hoping to add a fourth cricket square soon, and we’ve already got the infrastructure in place to irrigate it. We’re also planning a full renovation of the first-team rugby pitch, and the irrigation will go in first so we can reseed quickly and maintain momentum.”

The system has already proven invaluable during periods of dry weather. The team can now reliably water in granular fertilisers – even in hot conditions – and maintain the feeding schedule without compromising on turf health.

“We’re applying a granular every month,” George said. “Being able to water it in properly means we’re seeing better uptake and performance. It’s a huge advantage, particularly in seasons like this where rainfall can’t be relied on.”

Beyond the immediate benefits, George sees the project as an investment in both the grounds and the people who manage them.

“Everything we’ve done – the system, the infrastructure, the way it’s all been set up – is about improving the site for the next 10 years and more.”

With strong support from the school, a dedicated team, and a robust irrigation system in place, Bedford School is perfectly positioned to deliver top-quality playing surfaces well into the future.

For more information, please visit www.karuk.com

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Duncan Ross Rejuvenates Broughton High School

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Duncan Ross Rejuvenates Broughton High School: Broughton High School is ecstatic that the school field, which has been closed for eight years due to a large hole appearing, has finally seen extensive works carried out by Duncan Ross Ltd, bring it back to life and with it, extending the fantastic sporting facilities on offer.

Over the course of the last year, Lancashire County Council brought in drainage specialists Duncan Ross who were able to suggest a lasting solution and action the change over the summer holiday period.

Duncan Ross Rejuvenates Broughton High School

Duncan Ross Rejuvenates Broughton High School

Based in Burscough, Lancashire, Duncan Ross Ltd has built a reputation as one of the UK’s leading sports turf contractors, with decades of experience in natural turf construction, drainage, and renovation. The company is regularly commissioned by schools, councils, and sports clubs to deliver robust, long-term solutions that combine technical expertise with an understanding of how facilities are actually used on a day-to-day basis.

“Concerns were raised by the school, to the Local Authority, about the safety of the field”, recalls Mark Hodges, Contracts Manager at the Council. “We got a range of other contractors in, and drainage specialists, and they came up with some proposed solutions, but we didn’t fully understand what the issue was.”

The school began using a small section of the field two years ago. However, in bad weather, it quickly became unplayable, underscoring the need to identify the underlying issue. To do that, Mark approached Duncan Ross.

Duncan Ross initiated a thorough investigation, utilising site knowledge and aerial imagery to pinpoint the fault. The team traced the issue to a broken main drain, which was likely damaged years earlier when heavy vehicles became bogged down on the pitch. Since then, the old network of drains beneath the surface had silted up beyond repair. The clear choice was to replace the entire system.

“It was cheaper to install new drainage,” Mark explains. “So again, we got Duncan to design the system.”

The company specified a comprehensive scheme, installing carrier, main, and lateral drains at five-metre centres. Inspection chambers, junctions, and outfalls were included for ease of future maintenance. Once installed, the field received a full programme of post-drainage operations including decompaction to relieve construction compaction, sand topdressing to improve infiltration and surface regularity, overseeding for density, and targeted fertiliser applications to drive establishment. Final as-built drawings provided the Council with a clear record for future stewardship.

After a journey spanning Mark’s five years at Lancashire County Council, experiencing the way Duncan Ross operated brought confidence that the project would be a success. “It was reassuring, to be honest, working with somebody who understands the needs of the school, understands what we’re trying to achieve, and coming up with a solution.” That confidence was rewarded as the project moved from design to delivery.

With the core works complete, the next phase is about consolidation. “All the drainage works are complete,” Hodges says. “We’re waiting for the weather to improve so we can do the next phase, which is top dressing and overseeding. The field will see limited use this term, with full availability expected by next spring once the surface has bedded in.”

“That bedding-in period will be carefully managed. I’ve got to work with the school to be able to manage the pitch and make sure they don’t overplay it in wet weather and damage the surface.”

Speaking about the project, Headteacher David Botes added: “I’ve been extremely happy with the work carried out by Duncan Ross. Throughout the project, the company were professional, amenable, polite, on task and approachable. The work on the field is to an excellent standard, and we are extremely pleased.

“Duncan and his team are, as one, very easy to work with and we would not hesitate in recommending them to others or using them ourselves for future projects.”

For Broughton High School, the project marks the end of years of uncertainty and the beginning of a reliable new chapter in sport, while for Lancashire County Council, it represents a demonstration of evidence-led planning and investment.

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Bedford School Invests in Groundbreaking RM21

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Bedford School Invests in Groundbreaking RM21: Bedford School has taken delivery of the revolutionary RM21 Combo Mower, marking a new chapter in sports surface maintenance at the prestigious independent school.

The RM21 Combo Mower – now available in the UK and Ireland through an exclusive partnership between Agrovista Amenity and XDC Autonomous Solutions – is a cutting-edge machine that combines line marking and mowing in a single autonomous unit. Unlike traditional robotic line markers or standalone mowers, the RM21 brings genuine multi-functionality to turf management, saving time and boosting productivity.

Bedford School Invests in Groundbreaking RM21

Bedford School Invests in Groundbreaking RM21

“We’re the new proud owner of the RM21,” says the school’s Head Groundsman George Mills. “For us, it’s the line marking capability that was the biggest selling point – but the fact that we’ve also got the mowing function gives us added flexibility, particularly during the wetter months when our pitches can be difficult to access with heavier equipment. We’ve even thought about using it on the lawns in summer to free up the gardeners for other jobs.”

Thanks to its modular design, the RM21 doesn’t just cut and mark. A growing range of interchangeable attachments – including a grass collector, automated dew brush and ball picker – make it a versatile, all-season solution. The school also plans to use the robot to mark running tracks, cricket boundaries, rugby and football pitches, tennis courts, and hockey fields across its sprawling grounds and neighbouring training facilities.

The RM21 is exclusively distributed in the UK and Ireland by XDC Autonomous Solutions, who also provide technical support, training, and service backup. Through a strategic collaboration, Agrovista Amenity has become the exclusive sales distributor – a move that proved pivotal for Bedford School.

“Honestly, what made my mind up was Agrovista becoming part of the fold. Having someone I know and trust – someone I can go to if there’s an issue – gave me the confidence to purchase outright rather than go down a lease route,” George explains. “They know I’m a good customer, and I know Agrovista Amenity will always be there if I need them.”

Agrovista’s national network of over 40 experienced representatives ensures the RM21 is well supported and promoted across the UK, while XDC’s technical expertise guarantees high-quality backup and training for users.

For George, the RM21 represents far more than a piece of kit. It’s another tool in the box from a supplier that’s become a trusted, all-encompassing resource.

“Agrovista have pretty much become a one-stop shop for us. Fertilisers, seed, sprinklers, fittings, hose pipes, robots – anything we need in our industry, they’ve got it. That’s a big advantage. It saves me time, reduces admin, and means I can spend more time doing what I enjoy – being out on the grounds, not stuck behind a desk.”

With sustainability also front of mind, the school is already exploring the wider benefits of battery-powered equipment across its estate. The RM21 fits well into that vision.

“We’re starting to look seriously at battery options across the board,” continues George.

“This robot is another step in that direction. It’s efficient, flexible and ultimately gives us time back to focus on detail and quality.”

As robotic technology continues to reshape the landscape of grounds management, the RM21 Combo Mower – backed by Agrovista Amenity and XDC – looks set to lead the charge.

For more information about Agrovista UK, visit www.agrovista.co.uk/amenity

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Attraxor®: The Key to Controlled Growth at Tonbridge School

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Attraxor®: The Key to Controlled Growth at Tonbridge School: At Tonbridge School, known for its widely regarded sports facilities, Danny Stunt has embraced practical and effective solutions to manage its extensive grounds. With multiple sports pitches and surfaces to maintain, the challenges are significant.

Since becoming Head of Grounds three years ago, Danny has focused on streamlining processes, with products like Attraxor® proving invaluable in addressing key issues such as excessive grass growth and Poa annua.

Attraxor®: The Key to Controlled Growth at Tonbridge School

Attraxor®: The Key to Controlled Growth at Tonbridge School

Supplied by Agrovista Amenity, Attraxor® has not only transformed the way Danny and his team manage turf but has also come with valuable guidance from Andrew Norman, a Technical Manager at Agrovista Amenity. “Andrew has been a brilliant help from the start,” Danny says. “I like that he has previously been a head greenkeeper and straight away, we had common ground. He understands what I’m up against and has always been there to offer advice.”

Danny’s journey into the industry was guided by his grandfather, who he worked alongside at a local golf club. “My grandad brought out my passion for the profession at a young age – he taught me all about high standards,” Danny recalls. This passion evolved into a career which started with greenkeeping until accepting a role as a mechanic at Tonbridge School in Kent.

It was a role he credits for honing his understanding of machinery’s role in grounds care. “That experience as a mechanic has been invaluable and has helped me in becoming a better all-round grounds manager,” he says.

Managing the grounds at Tonbridge School is no small feat. When Danny first took over, excessive growth and frequent mowing were significant challenges. “The team were cutting every day—it was relentless,” he explains. “We were spending hours mowing and collecting clippings, particularly on the cricket outfields.”

This all changed when Danny started using Attraxor®. The product, containing the active substance prohexadione, regulates turf growth by inhibiting the gibberellic acid pathway, reducing turf height and biomass while promoting root growth.

“With Attraxor®, I can spray it on a Friday, come back on Monday to cut, and there are virtually no clippings,” Danny says. “In the past, especially in spring after fertiliser applications, it was crazy trying to pick up all the clippings. Attraxor® has saved us so much time.”

One of the standout benefits of Attraxor® for Danny has been its exceptional control of Poa annua, an invasive grass species notorious for its seed production and unsightly appearance. “The second-team cricket pitch was riddled with Poa,” he shares. “After applying Attraxor, it was the best it had ever been—both in terms of clippings and Poa control.”

Danny admits he was initially sceptical. However, its performance quickly won him over. “I’m normally quite sceptical about product claims, but I’ve never known anything like it. The Poa just disappeared,” he says. “A couple of years ago, the cricket outfields in April or May would be grey, full of Poa seedheads. Not anymore, and that’s thanks to Attraxor.”

Attraxor®: The Key to Controlled Growth at Tonbridge School

Attraxor®: The Key to Controlled Growth at Tonbridge School

For Danny, the benefits of using Attraxor® extend beyond aesthetics. The reduction in mowing has led to significant time savings, reduced labour demands, and decreased wear on machinery.

This change has also positively impacted the school’s sustainability efforts. “The school committee were pleased to hear we’ve reduced emissions by cutting down on the amount of mowing,” Danny says. “When you look at the cost-benefit analysis—fuel savings, less machinery maintenance – Attraxor® is a no-brainer.”

Danny plans to continue exploring how Attraxor® can further streamline operations at Tonbridge School. “I may increase the rates in the future to see if I can reduce mowing even more,” he says.

Reflecting on his experience, Danny emphasises the control Attraxor® has given his team. “We are now dictating to the grass – the grass isn’t dictating to us anymore,” he says. “Gone are the days of running all over an outfield picking up clippings, much to the delight of the team.”

For Danny Stunt and Tonbridge School, Attraxor® has proven to be more than just a growth regulator – it’s a product that has delivered results while balancing efficiency and sustainability. With expert support from Agrovista Amenity and Andrew Norman’s understanding of the challenges faced by grounds managers, Danny has found a solution that works seamlessly for his team and the school’s prestigious grounds.

For more information about Agrovista UK, visit www.agrovista.co.uk/amenity

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Duncan Ross continue school field transformation

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Duncan Ross continue school field transformation: Following Phase 1 of works with Duncan Ross Ltd, Altrincham Grammar School for Boys addressed critical drainage issues and drastically reduced match cancellations. Phase 2 has built on these successes by further improving the school’s sports facilities.

The school has been dedicated to its ‘Sport for All’ campaign, which seeks to improve access to quality sports facilities and ensure students of all levels have the opportunity to engage in physical activity. Duncan Ross Ltd.’s project has been integral to bringing that vision to life, enabling students to enjoy well-maintained and high-performing sports pitches throughout the year.

Duncan Ross continue school field transformation

Duncan Ross continue school field transformation

Neil Brown, Head Groundsman for the Hamblin Trust, highlighted the significant impact of the improvements made during Phase 1 and Phase 2. “Since we’ve had the drains done, the pitches have been fantastic,” he said. ”

In the last 18 months, we’ve only had two games called off, and even then, it was our decision to be extra cautious due to upcoming cup matches. The fields are now miles better for the kids to play on, with improved surfaces and more grass coverage, and the teachers and students are really pleased with how well they play.”

Phase 2 of the project concentrated on the training areas which had significant unevenness, with noticeable dips and slopes that made play difficult. As a result, a decision was made to level the entire area to create a more functional and versatile space.

Duncan Ross Ltd executed this transformation with precision. “The team at Duncan Ross went over and above, using various equipment for stone burning, flattening, and levelling,” Neil explains.

“The work was done so well that, when it was fully grassed in, we decided to convert it into a football pitch instead of just a training area because it was just too good only to be used for training.

Alongside the levelling work, extensive drainage improvements were made, mirroring the successful approach taken in Phase 1. Drains were installed at five-meter intervals with sand slits at half-meter intervals, significantly improving water management on the field. Previously, areas of the Year 7 field would become waterlogged and unplayable for months at a time, but that issue has now been resolved.

Looking ahead to Phase 3, the school is set to benefit from additional enhancements, including the installation of an Olympic-style long jump and triple jump area and another synthetic cricket wicket for match play. The ongoing collaboration between Altrincham Grammar School and Duncan Ross Ltd continues to elevate the school’s sports facilities, fostering greater student participation in various sports.

“There are a lot more kids playing cricket now using the practice nets,” Neil explains. “With the extra football pitch, we have better facilities all around. Before, the fields would turn into a mud bath in winter, but now we have quality playing surfaces all year round. It’s just a much better environment for the kids to play and develop their skills,”

With Duncan Ross Ltd.’s expertise and commitment to delivering top-quality sports surfaces, Altrincham Grammar School for Boys is well on its way to achieving its ‘Sport for All’ vision, ensuring that students have access to excellent facilities for years to come.

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