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Ticking boxes across the board

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Ticking boxes across the board: An FSI D60 tracked stump grinder has become the latest addition to the busy team at Proarb Professional Arboriculture – tackling commercial stump clearance tasks of all sizes and on all terrains.

Complementing a smaller grinder already on their fleet, Managing Director John Paul Williams explains that in the few short months following its delivery, the FSI D60 is already proving itself to be a robust and reliable workhorse.

Ticking boxes across the board

Ticking boxes across the board

Proarb Professional Arboriculture was established in 2003 and has gone on to set the benchmark for domestic and commercial vegetation management across North Wales and the North West. The team of 40 work on a number of large-scale commercial contracts, including in the area of utility arboriculture, which is what drove the demand for an upgrade on the existing stump clearance solution. “I had seen lots of positive feedback and comments on social media about FSI and, while it wasn’t a brand we’d used before, it impressed us from the first demonstration” explains John Paul.

Boasting a 60hp Hatz diesel engine, the FSI D60 delivers impressive power and productivity combined with class-leading manoeuvrability and traction. Efficiency is further improved with the full-feature remote control system which provides the best possible view of the work area and facilitates the clearance of stumps in hard-to-reach areas in full safety.

“The track base and remote control is incredibly important for us because of the variety of terrain we have to work on. With the FSI D60 we enjoy the versatility of being able to navigate fields and other rural areas as well as having the ability to work in small, confined spaces with limited access as narrow as 800mm. We can also tackle stumps of all shapes and sizes with the machines impressive 2.2m sweep.”

He continues, “It ticked a lot of boxes. Not only did it fit our requirements in terms of specification, but it was also clear the machine was very well-built, good attention to detail right down to the high quality of paint finish.”

“In addition, our experience with dealer’s GGM – particularly their Arb Product Manager Phil Edmondson – has been excellent” he adds. “In our line of work, downtime costs money, so good back-up support is incredibly important to us. We feel confident in the service we’ve had from both GGM and the team at FSI that we are in safe hands.”

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Lister Wilder win the treble at Baroness dealer awards!

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Lister Wilder win the treble at Baroness dealer awards!: After a record-breaking year of growth and success, Baroness UK celebrated achievements at BTME 2025 with the return of their annual dealer awards.

For the first time, the three categories of Highest Overall Machinery Sales, Highest Growth in Machinery Sales and Salesperson of the Year we’re all won by the team at Lister Wilder!

Lister Wilder win the treble at Baroness dealer awards!

Lister Wilder win the treble at Baroness dealer awards!

The Baroness UK dealer awards were introduced to recognise the outstanding individual and team efforts across the nationwide network. While it’s fair to say that 2024 presented its share of challenges, it was Lister Wilder who emerged as the winners of all three categories – achieving the treble and clean-sweep for the very first time. Alongside the team awards for overall sales and highest growth in machinery sales, the individual ‘Salesperson of the Year’ award was presented to Lister Wilder’s David Gray.

“It was a huge surprise, and an incredible honour to find out we’d scooped all three awards” comments Phill Hughes, Sales Director for Lister Wilder. “I am especially pleased for David Gray who has championed Baroness and shown his total dedication to our golf customers over the last twelve months. This recognition goes some way to reward him for all the hard work he’s put in. Of course, we couldn’t achieve what we have without the support of Team Baroness and our aftersales departments, so we’d like to thank them all as we look ahead to another positive year.”

“All of our dealers have put in an incredible effort throughout 2024 and it becoming our best year yet would simply not have been possible without the unwavering commitment of our entire network” adds Baroness UK Sales Director Adam Butler. “We continue to strive for the very best equipment matched by world-leading backup, and we’re getting there year-on-year. The whole team at Baroness UK extend huge congratulations to David and the Lister Wilder team and thank all of our dealers and customers for their unwavering and ongoing support.”

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Peter Pattenden announced as Amenity Sprayer Operator of the Year

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Peter Pattenden announced as Amenity Sprayer Operator of the Year: Peter Pattenden, spray tech at the Cheshire championship golf resort, Carden Park, has won the prestigious title of Amenity Sprayer Operator of the Year.

Peter’s ASOOTY award presentation was made as part of the glittering BIGGA industry awards at BTME in Harrogate this week (21 January 2025), along with the competition’s other finalists, Sarah Phillips of Complete Weed Control (South & Central Wales) and Mark Sippitt of Top Grass UK.

Peter Pattenden announced as Amenity Sprayer Operator of the Year

Peter Pattenden announced as Amenity Sprayer Operator of the Year

The ASOOTY awards highlight best practice and experience in the challenging role of ensuring accurate application on all amenity surfaces.

Sponsored by ICL and Syngenta and managed by the Amenity Forum, the awards seek to share top tips and advice that will raise the standards of spray application across the amenity industry.

The ASOOTY judges particularly praised Peter’s commitment to complete a comprehensive checklist of mechanical and practical points before every application, including calibration of the sprayer and assessment of the specific requirements for any products being used.

“Although only a relatively young age, Peter ably demonstrated a deep understanding of the principles of sprayer mechanics and operation, along with the implication of how any changes could impact on application,” reports Syngenta Technical Manager, Sean Loakes.

“He also showed an excellent awareness of the environmental aspects of good sprayer operation that will mitigate any impact of off-target spray drift or over application. His commitment and attention to achieving accurate application was exemplary and makes him a great role model for other sprayer operators to learn from.”

The judges also highlighted how Peter had embraced new technologies in a move towards precision application to ensure more of the products hit the intended target, as well as adopting digital tools including sprayer set up advice, turf management Apps and application record keeping.

Other ASOOTY finalists at the Awards included Sarah Phillips of Complete Weed Control (South & Central Wales), who was commended for her pioneering work in developing a comprehensive and effective training programme for the company’s spray technicians, which draws on her extensive experience and knowledge as a highly professional operator.

Mark Sippitt, of Warwickshire-based Top Grass UK, was also praised for the way he had successfully developed integrated turf management strategies for lawn treatments including herbicides, iron treatment, nutrition and mechanical controls – where accurate knapsack application was at the centre of the company’s approach. Ongoing training and regular in-house assessment ensures Mark and other Top Grass operatives are always fully up to date with developments and techniques.

ICL Landscape & Industrial Business Development Manager, Lewis Blois, added: “We were once again hugely impressed with all the finalists’ dedication to ensuring every application is made as effectively as possible. They all take exceptional care to achieve a good result, as well as immense pride that they have made a real difference with a job well done.

“This year the Awards have recognised the range of spray application techniques and the differing skills involved across the amenity sector. It will provide a unique and vitally important resource for all involved in spray application.”

Presenting the award at BTME, Ian Graham, Chairman of the Amenity Forum, said: “The skills required to competently apply professional plant protection products are often overlooked. Along with the formal training and accreditation process, there is the experience that takes years to acquire.

“Winners of this award have elevated the application process to an art, be that with a knapsack or a boom sprayer, to help create great playing surfaces  all year round, managing amenity areas efficiently and cost effectively, along with maintaining immaculate lawns for customers,” he adds.

“The Amenity Forum is delighted to work with ICL and Syngenta as the sponsors of this award and would like to congratulate Peter for upholding the highest of professional standards.”

Look out on the Amenity Forum website for more details and entry form for the launch of next year’s ASOOTY and your chance to win.

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Etesia Hydro 100 is the Perfect Solution

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Etesia Hydro 100 is the Perfect Solution: The Retreats Group, which encompasses three of the leading luxury hotels in Wales—Twr y Felin Hotel, Roch Castle, and Penrhiw Priory—has always been dedicated to maintaining immaculate grounds that reflect the beauty of its locations.

For Ollie Davies, the groundskeeper and supervisor for The Retreats Group, maintaining these stunning landscapes has become significantly easier since the purchase of a Etesia Hydro 100 ride-on mower.

Etesia Hydro 100 is the Perfect Solution

Etesia Hydro 100 is the Perfect Solution

“The properties are undulating and steep in places,” says Ollie. “My brother used to help me look after the grounds, and when he left, we decided that instead of employing someone else full-time, we would invest in one of these machines and see how it would benefit me.”

Before the Hydro 100, Ollie managed the extensive lawns using pedestrian mowers—a task that was both time-consuming and physically demanding. “Prior to the Etesia machine, I would cut them all with a pedestrian mower. It was a lot of hard work. This Etesia saves so much time and money. It is a great bit of kit.”

The Etesia Hydro 100 III ride-on mower is designed for professional users who require top-quality mowing and collection performance in all weather conditions. Powered by an 18 HP twin-cylinder Kawasaki engine, it features a modern hydraulic drive transmission with differential lock, a large 500-litre grass box, and a cutting deck with rear central ejection for efficient grass collection.

Ollie initially considered the Etesia Buffalo ride-on mower, having seen impressive footage of its performance on social media. However, after careful evaluation, he realised that the Buffalo was too large for the more intricate formal gardens within the properties. “We wanted to get a demo of a Buffalo because it looks great, but we figured out it was a bit too big for the formal gardens. We wouldn’t have got it around some of the benches and flower beds.”

Given the uneven terrain of the properties, Ollie decided on the Hydro 100, known for its differential lock and sturdy design. “With the grounds being so uneven, we went for the Hydro 100 because it has a diff lock and it seemed very sturdy.”

Ollie’s decision was reinforced during a particularly wet demo session. “We got one on demo to start with—it was really wet—but these pick up the grass in wet conditions, even when it is long. It worked a treat on our demo; it picked up the grass and didn’t leave a mess, so we were really impressed with it, and we just went from there.”

The Hydro 100’s differential lock has proven invaluable on the steep, slippery slopes of the properties. “It is quite undulating and steep, and especially when it is wet, the diff lock comes in handy. As soon as you start feeling it slip a bit, you just engage the diff lock and it doesn’t leave a mess or wheel spin.”

Etesia Hydro 100 is the Perfect Solution

Etesia Hydro 100 is the Perfect Solution

During the peak growing season, Ollie faces the challenge of keeping up with rapidly growing grass. The Hydro 100 has made this task much more manageable. “If I was on my own and I only had my walk-behind mower, I would be completely swamped with grass and I would just be chasing my tail all the time. So having the Hydro 100 means I can stay on top of things. I’m no longer physically tired all the time from having to use my little walk-behind mower when I can use this instead.”

Ollie also appreciates the Hydro 100’s ability to cut and collect grass on formal lawns, ensuring that the grounds remain pristine for guests. “We cut and collect on the formal lawns because we don’t want guests to get their shoes clogged with grass and walk it into the castle—it wouldn’t be very popular with the housekeeping staff.”

The ease of adjusting the cutting height is another feature Ollie values. “To change the height of cut, you have something that looks like a handbrake. You just push the thumb button in and set the height using the lever. I tend to use a medium setting because we want to take the top third off the grass to keep it green.”

Ollie has also been impressed by the mower’s reliability, even in less-than-ideal conditions. “Considering how wet it has been over the past year I have never experienced any form of blocking, even if the grass is long and wet.”

For Ollie Davies and The Retreats Group, the Hydro 100 has proven to be an essential tool in maintaining the high standards of their luxury properties, ensuring that the grounds are always perfectly presented, no matter the conditions.

A video review with Ollie Davies can be found by visiting:  https://youtu.be/Uq4WoC4rPMo?si=o0iz9J20uf5OiPnX

For further information, please contact Etesia UK on 01295 680120 or visit www.etesia.co.uk.

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

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The Grass Seed That Changed the Game

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The Grass Seed That Changed the Game: Managing the expansive grounds of Warwick Schools Foundation requires precision and dedication, and Grounds Manager Duncan Toon relies on trusted solutions to meet these demands.

Recently, he found that MM Tetra Sport grass seed has become an essential part of his maintenance toolkit; ensuring top tier playing conditions for the schools’ varied sports facilities.

The Grass Seed That Changed the Game

The Grass Seed That Changed the Game

Duncan has overseen the grounds for just over six years, looking after Warwick Preparatory School, Warwick Junior School, The Kingsley School, King’s High School, and Warwick Senior School. These sites cover eight hectares of natural grass, a 3G pitch, two hockey pitches (with plans for a third), eight netball/tennis courts, three cricket squares, and various other sports surfaces.

He has long relied on high-quality grass seed mixes – particularly MM50 and MM60 – which he praises for their consistency and strong performance. However, a recent shift in his approach has led to the adoption of MM Tetra Sport – a mixture by MM Seed that has quickly become his go-to choice.

“I’ve always been a big fan and a long-term user of MM50 and MM60 grass seed”, Duncan shares. “However, more recently, I started using Tetra Sport by MM Seed because I was interested in the fact that tetraploids have deeper roots.” The MM Tetra Sport mixture, consisting of Tetraploid Ryegrasses, is designed for overseeding high-quality sports fields and caught Duncan’s attention for its many benefits – including strong root growth and enhanced drought tolerance.

Duncan first applied MM Tetra Sport to the main rugby pitches after an extensive renovation process: “We sprayed off the main rugby pitches, heavily fraise mowed, and removed most of the organic matter from the surface. We then seeded at 50g per square metre with the Tetra Sport”, he explains. “The seed germinated within four days, even though only one of the pitches had automated irrigation. On the pitch without automated irrigation, we used travelling sprinklers, but we still achieved the same germination.”

The results exceeded Duncan’s expectations: “I was really surprised because after about four weeks, we had a root down to about four inches, and I was really impressed with that. The vigour of the sward is incredible. Even when all the fixtures have taken place over the weekend, I come in on a Monday and the pitches still look immaculate.”

Duncan credits the success of MM Tetra Sport to recommendations from both Matt Gresty of MM Seed and Mark Allen of Agrovista Amenity. Reflecting on the qualities of the mixture, Duncan said “it became apparent that the Tetra Sport seed had everything I was looking for: good, deep rooting, drought tolerance, and a hardier look. It stands up very well to extreme weather conditions.”

He has since expanded the use of MM Tetra Sport across multiple pitches: “We’ve overseeded the middle of four heavily used pitches, and again, we had fast germination – even in colder temperatures. With the dry weather we’ve experienced recently, we still saw germination very quickly. The stand-up and vigour are impressive, and you can just see it standing strong.”

The Grass Seed That Changed the Game

The Grass Seed That Changed the Game

Maintaining a large and busy site means that time efficiency is critical for Duncan and his team. One of the key advantages of MM Tetra Sport is its drought tolerance, which reduces the need for frequent watering – an essential benefit for areas without automated irrigation systems. “Running travelling sprinklers takes a lot of time, and our schedule is very tight for watering,” Duncan explains. “If we can have a drought-tolerant plant that aligns with our schedule, it saves us a lot of time.”

Duncan now makes it a routine to overseed with MM Tetra Sport during half-term breaks. “MM50 and MM60 have always been reliable for me, but Tetra Sport has taken these particular sites to another level”, he adds.

His relationship with MM Seed and Agrovista Amenity has also played a crucial role: “I get very good support from both Matt Gresty and Mark Allen. Their guidance directs me in the right way, and it really helps,” he says.

For Duncan, the ultimate reward is more than just aesthetic appeal: “Presentation is key, but for me, it’s not just about how it looks; the best thing is to see a high-end game of sport played on a pitch performing to the best of its ability because we’ve produced a good surface.”

With MM Tetra Sport now firmly integrated into his maintenance regime, Duncan is confident that he has found the ideal solution for maintaining the exceptional standards of Warwick Schools Foundation.

For further information, please contact MM Sports Seed on 01386 791102 or visit the company’s website www.mm-seeds.co.uk.

You can also follow the company on Twitter/X: @MM_Seed.

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