When the grounds team at Cheltenham Ladies’ College received investment for new equipment, Ross Spry, Head of Grounds and Gardens, decided that SISIS machinery was a good place to start. 

Established in 1853, Cheltenham Ladies’ College is an independent boarding and day school for girls aged 11 to 18 in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire. It is consistently ranked as one of the top all-girls' schools in the UK.

Ross has been the Head of Grounds and Gardens for approximately fifteen months after joining from the nearby Cheltenham College. Ross and his team maintain all CLC’s lawns and sports pitches which includes lacrosse, athletics, rounders, and cricket. His job has been made that little bit easier after College invested in some new machinery, as he explained.

“When I first started at CLC a lot of the kit was old and it was apparent that several machines needed replacing. I’m pleased to say that a big investment was made and so I started sourcing new equipment.

“I’ve always been impressed by SISIS machinery and have used some of it throughout my career – particularly when I was a greenkeeper. I’ve found it to always be very good kit and it is always solidly made.”

His first purchase was the SISIS Auto Rotorake Mk. 5 - a self-propelled heavy duty scarifier for removal and control of thatch on fine and other quality turf. Its contra-rotating reel has specially designed tipping blades for a clean, consistent cut and maximum thatch removal to ensure excellent lawn care when the time comes to scarify.

Ross explained how he uses the SISIS Auto Rotorake Mk. 5:

“The Mk.5 is predominantly used on our big lawns and for end of season renovations on the cricket square. It is a great machine, and we find it is one of the better machines for scarifying the cricket squares. It has got so much torque, and it can get through the hard clay, more so than any other scarifier I have used.

“The Mk.5’s best feature is how robust it is. A cricket square is probably one of the toughest things you can put it through, and it doesn’t bat an eyelid.”

Ross was also adamant that he wanted a SISIS Dart. This independently powered vertical action aerator improves drainage, reduces turf compaction, thatch build up and increases the health of lawns. Powered by a 6.5hp engine, the Dart has a working depth of up to 100mm which can be easily adjusted from the operator’s position using the balanced depth control lever. The unit can also be fitted with a wide range of tines to meet the operator’s requirements.

“I’ve used the SISIS Dart at every venue I have worked - mostly on cricket squares. We always use it when we are renovating to break the surface up a bit, and I do tend to use it occasionally during the winter periods. We use the pencil tines, to keep the air circulating.

“The Dart is so easy to operate. All my staff can use it – and that is important because we need machinery which every team member feels comfortable using.

“Once again SISIS has not let me down.”

For further information or a no obligation demonstration, please contact SISIS on 01332 824 777 or visit www.sisis.com

ICL has announced the launch of the Invasive Plants Guide - a detailed and comprehensive resource for understanding and managing key invasive plants in the United Kingdom.

Encompassing over 150 pages, the Invasive Plants Guide provides crucial information about identifying, understanding, and sustainably managing 14 different types of invasive plants prevalent in the UK. The varieties covered in the guide range from annuals such as Himalayan balsam and Smooth sowthistle to short-lived perennials like Giant hogweed and Common ragwort, as well as long-lived perennials including Japanese knotweed and Bracken. Woody weeds and trees, such as Buddleja and Rhododendron, are also included.

The guide offers a thorough understanding of what constitutes an invasive plant and the problems they can pose. It delves into their growth and lifecycle, with a focus on how this knowledge can be applied for their sustainable control and management.

"The Invasives Plant Guide is a comprehensive resource that brings together information to aid in the identification, understanding, and sustainable management of invasive plants," said Barry Browne, Landscape & Industrial Sales Manager from ICL.

"We believe that this guide will be an invaluable tool for all who are dealing with invasive species, from landscapers and gardeners to local authorities and land managers."

Register your interest in receiving your free copy of the guide at https://bit.ly/ICLInvasivePlantsGuide

For more information about the guide, please visit the new ICL website www.icl-growingsolutions.uk

Stuart Hogg, Course Manager at The West Lancashire Golf Club, believes that ICL’s products and Agrovista Amenity’s service help to keep course standards impeccably high.

Founded in 1873, The West Lancashire Golf Club in Liverpool, is one of the 9 oldest clubs in England. It is currently ranked 28th in Golf World Top 100 in England; 49th in Golf World Top 100 Links GB & Ireland; and 23rd in National Club Golfer Top 100.

The West Lancashire has also recently been selected by The Royal & Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews (R&A) as one of four renowned golf clubs to stage final qualifying for The Open.

Stuart, who has been at the club since 2015 and manages a team of seven members of staff, underlined the importance of keeping up standards at such a highly regarded club.

“It certainly puts pressure on us to deliver,” he admitted. “As a business, we have grown massively, and so has the reputation. We have to keep standards high and constantly need to deliver high-end surfaces and to do that we need to rely on proven, quality products.

“For example, when we first started using ICL we quickly realised that the products being developed and launched were matching where I wanted to go, and they were making it easier to achieve our goals.”

Stuart sources all his ICL products through Agrovista Amenity – an ICL distributor, and he has recently reported excellent results from Qualibra wetting agent and Sportsmaster WSF SMX 20-0-0 – a beneficial nitrogen source in the form of ammonium sulphate coupled with SMX – an effective and sustainable seaweed concentrate.

Commenting on his use of Qualibra, Stuart said: “We’re now using Qualibra across the whole course because over recent years we’ve developed a huge amount of trust in the product. The standards and expectations here are so high that I need to be using market leading products. I like the fact that its widely tank-mixable with other products and I can buy it in bulk, ensuring we keep within budget.

“We always make sure that we get plenty of applications of Qualibra throughout the course by the end of May, so we are prepared for any further dry spells ahead of us,” he continued. “I like to do a simple test when I’m concerned about the soil accepting any rainfall or irrigation and that’s to simply pour some water over the treated area to see if the water is absorbed or just sits on top. This tells me that everything is in place to accept any irrigation or rainfall. I am currently very happy with the results this product gives me and can’t see any reason to change currently.”

On SMX, Stuart said: “After some trial work with ICL we started to incorporate WSF SMX 20.0.0 into our programme and it has been a great product. I like the makeup of it because it is environmentally friendly, and it is in line with traditional greenkeeping. It’s delivering sufficient nutrition and helping mitigate stresses on the turf which is hugely beneficial because we are quite a stressful site.”

As well as being impressed with the products, Stuart underlined the importance of working with both the manufacturer and distributor.

“Ask anyone - Agrovista Amenity and ICL provide the same level of service to the local club down the road as they do to some of the biggest sporting clubs in the world. Both companies’ values align with my own values.

“I buy the products through Agrovista Amenity, and I have their support, but I also have the back up from ICL. I believe all Course Managers need to trust the companies they deal with in product deliveries, and I have never had any issues at all.

“Having two of the industry’s biggest companies working in partnership together helps our golf course – that’s for sure. There is absolutely no reason to move away from ICL and Agrovista when everything works incredibly well for us.”

Please contact ICL on 01473 237100 or visit www.icl-growingsolutions.uk or www.icl-sf.ie if you are in Ireland.

An impressive range of MM grass seed mixtures will be showcased at GroundsFest 2023, and visitors will get the chance to find out how the innovative seed technology could vastly benefit their sports pitches.

Here's a snapshot of just some of the mixtures on display at GroundsFest.

MM50

MM50 is perfect for cricket squares, tennis courts and also golf tees and fairways. This hard-wearing mix has rapid germination, extremely fine leaved appearance, high shoot density and is tolerant to very close mowing, as low as 5mm, along with high disease resistance. All these attributes together produce a fantastic sward.

MM60

MM60 is a 100% Ryegrass formula and the UK's leading winter sports renovation mixture. It is well-known for its extremely fast germination and its high wear tolerance plus excellent disease resistance.

MM Tetrasport

A traditional repair mixture, especially useful for overseeding of high quality sportsfields to improve sward composition and aid recovery from disease scarring, Tetra Sport consists of Tetraploid Ryegrasses and is ideal for when the cooler weather arrives.

All mixtures in the MM range, are treated with HEADSTART® GOLD - a revolutionary grass seed treatment that ensures rapid, even germination.

Research and development play a key factor in MM's success and the extremely high standards are achieved through rigorous testing procedures in a licensed seed testing facility. In addition, all varieties used in the MM range have been thoroughly tested at the Sports Turf Research Institute (STRI), so you can be sure they will meet your requirements for play, appearance and maintenance.

If you are seeking advice for your natural turf projects - no matter how big or small, then pay a visit to the DLF stand (OSA481), where the MM Sports Seed specialist team will be on hand.

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

The full range of Syn-Pro by SISIS products will be on display at the first ever GroundsFest, which is taking place at Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire on 20 and 21 September 2023.

Syn-Pro by SISIS is a range of synthetic turf maintenance equipment, ideal for sand-dressed, sand-filled, irrigated and rubber crumb 3G/4G surfaces. They are used around the world for routine drag brushing, grooming, decompaction, infill distribution and debris collection of synthetic playing surfaces.

With the emergence of synthetic surfaces becoming more common over the years in a wide range of sports, the Syn-Pro brand has continued to go from strength to strength. Today synthetic surfaces are playing such a large role in a groundsperson’s overall responsibilities, and many have turned to the reliable and efficient Syn-Pro range.

Located in the outdoor area on stand OAS170, visitors to GroundsFest will be able to see the full range of Syn-Pro products including:

Osca3

The Osca is a tractor mounted powered oscillating brush with a 1.9 meter working width and is equally effective when used on synthetic turf with sand or rubber infill. The two oscillating brushes stand the carpet fibres up and redistributes the infill evenly, minimising compaction on the surface and improving its performance – giving consistent playing characteristics while preventing pile damage caused by reduced infill levels.

Litamina 1200

The Litamina 1200 is a compact sweeper for efficient collection for unwanted debris from sand filled or rubber crumb synthetic surfaces. With its spiral design brush helping to stand up the pile and improve collection, and a large capacity mesh hopper collecting debris but allowing infill to be returned to the surface, the Litamina 1200 is ideal for helping to keep surfaces free of contamination and harmful debris.

SSS1000 sweeper

The SISIS SSS1000 is a tractor mounted sweeper which can be pulled by any machine. There are no tools required for the adjustment of the brush or the angle of the draw bar and to make storage easy the draw bar lifts to an upright position. With an aluminium hopper with stainless steel mesh, any infill that is collected when using the machine is returned back down to the surface leaving it free from contamination of debris.

Flexicomb

The Flexicomb ensures even distribution of infill materials and lifts the pile. The adjustable setting ensures the effect of a rake, but with the softness of a brush, reducing the risk of damage to the fibres. The bristle sections are replaceable and the Flexicomb is designed for a long working life with minimal maintenance. For greater results, users can attach either the zigzag or straight brush to the Flexicomb which helps to even out the rubber crumb.

This is just a snapshot of the products that will be on display so make sure that a visit to the Syn-Pro stand is on your GroundsFest agenda.

For further information or a no obligation demonstration, please contact Syn-Pro by SISIS on 01332 824 777 or visit www.synprobysisis.com

SISIS has announced that, for the first time ever at a trade event, it will be showcasing its entire range of products at GroundsFest, held at Stoneleigh Park on 20 and 21 September.

Since 1932 SISIS has designed and manufactured a wide range of professional groundcare equipment, ideal for the maintenance of sports turf, amenity turf and artificial playing surfaces. Renowned for helping to create the perfect surface, it is used around the world at high profile stadia, top football, cricket, golf, and bowling clubs as well as local authorities, schools, colleges, and universities.

The famous product range includes specialist tractor-mounted and pedestrian turf maintenance equipment that is suitable for natural and synthetic playing surfaces; a wide range of pedestrian scarifiers, rakes and slitters which are praised for their effectiveness and durability; tractor-mounted scarifiers, brushes, fertiliser spreaders and seeders, and a selection of innovative hand tools.

There is also the SISIS Quadraplay multiple-purpose, single-pass maintenance system which incorporates a mounted frame for up to four implements such as grooming rakes, spikers, slitters, rollers and brushes. The implements can be fitted to the mainframe in any order and can be independently adjusted to achieve the desired effect. They can also be raised out of use when not required.

SISIS boasts one of the strongest and widest portfolios on the market and visitors can see them all in the outdoor areas at GroundsFest on stand OSA170.

The expert SISIS team will also be out in force throughout the two days to offer assistance.

For further information or a no obligation demonstration, please contact SISIS on 01332 824 777 or visit www.sisis.com

At GroundsFest 2023, Pellenc UK will be showcasing its range of market leading battery-powered equipment. In addition to the products, some lucky visitors will walk away with a section of prizes from the Pellenc portfolio.

Over recent years, Pellenc has gained market recognition by offering a unique range of 'zero emission' battery-powered tools, thanks to the development of Lithium-ion ultra-high-performance batteries.

Visitors to the Pellenc stand (OSA150) will get the opportunity to see a wide range of the market leading equipment. The extensive Pellenc product range features an impressive portfolio - from chainsaws, pole saws and hedge cutters to grass strimmers, brushcutters, blowers and mowers.

The company is also participating in a GroundsFest registration giveaway which will see visitors land a range of prizes including the powerful Pellenc Rasion Basic battery-powered pedestrian mower, a telescopic saw, a fixed pole-saw and ULB40 ultra-Lithium-ion battery and harness. Every visitor who registers and attends will be in with a chance of winning.

The Pellenc team will be available throughout the two-day event to assist and advise on all your battery-powered questions.   

Pellenc offers an industry leading four-year commercial warranty for all batteries and a three-year warranty for all tools.

Pellenc is distributed exclusively in the UK by Etesia UK.

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

Visitors to the Mansfield Sand stand (OSA260) at GroundsFest can expect to see a wide range of sand-based products that are vital to the overall health and performance of a sports pitch.

Mansfield Sand has pioneered the development and production of premium silica sand-based products for over 170 years. The company provides a wide range of innovative products for sports, landscaping, and equestrian uses. These include stadium and training ground facilities; championship golf courses and world class show jumping arenas.

The company’s leading experts will be on hand at GroundsFest to explain how some of the following products could make a difference to your sports turf projects.

Mansil Silica Sand Sports Range

Sourced from the company’s Two Oaks Quarry in Mansfield where the Mansil range of Silica Sands is produced. These products are predominantly used in the construction and maintenance of a wide range of sports surfaces – from winter sports pitches, golf courses, bowling greens and all amenity turf areas.

Fibresand

A pure sand and polypropylene fibre reinforcement product that is particularly advantageous when grass cover has been reduced due to heavy usage and wear during the winter period. Incorporated into an upper sand soil rootzone and consolidated to provide a stable divot-free environment.

Fibre Reinforced Rootzone

A range of Fibre Reinforced Rootzones developed to obtain greater use from natural turf surfaces whilst maintaining the high standards demanded by today’s sports industry and meeting the expectations of ground staff at all levels. Mansfield Sand’s fibre reinforcement technology provides stability and durability to all sand dominated Rootzones allowing the pitch to remain free draining and consistent over the whole surface.

Sand Soil Rootzones

Mansfield Sand understands exactly what is needed to achieve the surface that turf managers require week-in-week-out and that is why their rootzones contain only the best quality materials to meet that demand. For renovation or construction, the company’s superior rootzone blend Mansil 40 Silica Sand with a quality screened topsoil, guarantees the perfect start.

Sand Compost Rootzones

A range of premium quality sand organic material blends which are perfect for creating a rootzone where an organic rich material is required within the profile, aiding in the retention of nutrients whilst providing increased drought resistance.

Top Dressing

Produced for the fine turf market, Mansfield Sand’s Soil Top Dressing is a manufactured homogenous product made from their own premium silica sands combined with top quality soils. All passed through a sterilising unit, over a 3mm screen to produce an easy to spread, stone and pebble free dressing.

Mansfield Sand can also produce bespoke dressing blends and combine soil amendments into any product.

For more information visit www.mansfield-sand.co.uk

Lloyds Mowers and Hunter Grinders are looking forward to attending GroundsFest 2023 and visitors can expect to see a variety of products on display from the two well-respected brands.

Lloyds has always manufactured and supplied products that deliver on performance while requiring minimum maintenance. The Paladin pedestrian mower is a classic example of a quality product that can stand alone and deliver the cut today as it has done, for many decades. Also on show will be the Lloyds Leda Gang Mowers.

Hunter Grinders is known worldwide in golf and stadia for their grinding performance on cutting cylinders and bottom blades. The company has steadily built up a reputation for supplying strong, accurate, precision grinders.

GroundsFest visitors can find Lloyds Mowers in the outdoor area on stand OSA170 and Hunter Grinders on stand 50 in Hall 2. Company representatives will also be on hand throughout the event to talk about the products in more detail.

Etesia UK will have a range of pedestrian and ride-on mowers, brushcutters and the award-winning ET Lander electric utility vehicle on display at GroundsFest 2023. In addition to the products, some lucky visitors will walk away with a section of prizes from the Etesia and Pellenc battery-powered range.

Etesia UK, located on stand OSA150, are specialists in building high quality grass cutting machinery and are looking forward to exhibiting at the first ever GroundsFest.

The company is also participating in a GroundsFest registration giveaway which will see visitors land a range of prizes including the powerful Etesia Duocut battery-powered mower.

Every visitor who registers and attends will be in with a chance of winning.

In addition to the registration prize, Etesia UK will be showcasing a range of its most popular products including the Electric Bahia M2EL lithium and the ET Lander electric utility vehicle.

The new ET Lander models are now fully N1 homologation compliant meaning that they are fully road legal along with being able to be used off road. They also feature lithium-ion batteries which ensures that the range of the ET Landers will extend to 100km and have a charger system compatible with a standard type 2EV car charger.

100% electric, spacious, well-equipped and user-friendly, it is built on a robust chassis and has an array of options including a three-way tipper bed with dual control from the fully fitted two-seater cab or by remote control when outside the vehicle. With a length of just 3.72 meters, the ET Lander is very compact. Thanks to the power steering, the short turning radius of 4.40 meters and 360 ° visibility, it goes anywhere. The autonomy of the vehicle lasts for a full working day – without noise pollution, can transport loads of up to 940kgs and can also tow up to 750kgs.

The Etesia Bahia M2EL – the world’s first 100% electric professional ride-on-mower with grass collection, is powered by a 48V, 100Ah lithium battery. This enables users to get up to 4 hrs 30 mins of action before it needs recharging.

A pocket-size ride-on mower, just 0.82 m wide and 1.98 m long, the Etesia electric Bahia features an incredibly tight turning circle. It nips into every nook and cranny and can be easily transported. With its low centre of gravity, the Etesia electric Bahia’s 33/67 weight distribution on the front/rear axles make it a highly stable mower that masterfully copes with slopes.

It is also highly economical – the electric Bahia’s running costs are £0.35 against £3.57 for the petrol version and there are the obvious reduced maintenance costs – such as no belt, no filters, and no engine oil.

Visitors to GroundsFest will get the chance to see these two products in action in a demonstration area in Ring B.

As always, the company’s knowledgeable staff will be available throughout the two days at GroundsFest to advise and assist.

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

Dennis will be showcasing a wide-range of pedestrian battery-powered products on stand 50 in hall 2 at GroundsFest 2023.

Since its launch, the Dennis E-Series has taken the industry by storm standing out from the competition in terms of power, battery-range and performance.

Reliable and long lasting, the exciting Dennis E-Series is a range of battery powered mowers that are no compromise alternatives to its popular range of petrol machines. Ultra-low noise, low vibration, user friendly and super low CO2 footprint, the new range of mowers are helping users towards the carbon neutral goal.

GroundsFest visitors can expect to see a selection of products in the E-Series range such as:

ES-860

Users of the Dennis G860 cylinder mower will no doubt see familiarities in the new ES-860.

This 34” battery powered turf management system delivers maximum versatility and the range of 13 interchangeable cassette options provide a solution to many day-to-day maintenance tasks. The power of the battery system ensures the machine is capable of cutting at least 3-4 pitches on a single charge or verticutting a full pitch without anxiety. Furthermore, current G860 cassettes will also fit the ES-860.

ES-34R

The ES-34R rotary mower has twin contra rotating blades with the height of cut controlled by an easy to use ‘click’ system. Suction and blade speed can be adapted to meet the most challenging collection conditions. The mower is also available with optional front wheels, smooth or wiele roller, and has excellent sight lines.

ES-36

Based on the Dennis Premier, the ES-36 provides a perfect finish every time and capable of cutting 2-3 pitches on a single charge. The powerful battery system allows the addition of a trailer seat to be attached and still achieve a minimum of 20km of cutting. A uniquely developed micro adjuster makes it very easy to set the bottom blade to cylinder.

ES-510

This new mower is based on the Dennis FT510 – which is, historically, the company’s most popular machine. With a choice of 12 interchangeable cassettes, the ES-510 is capable of scarifying down to -10mm. Ideal for fine turf it has the power to cut 4-5 bowling greens or approximately 10km on a single charge.

ES-22 Ultra

Users of the Dennis Razor Ultra will be familiar with this machine, which features an ultra-short wheelbase for undulating surfaces. Using a 7 or 11 bladed cutting cylinder and groomer reel, this 560mm (22”) battery mower produces a quality of cut which provides an ultra-fine finish on bowling greens, golf greens and tees, and cricket pitches.

ES-26

Easy to use, superb balance, control, and easy pull back for accurate alignment of next run are just some of the features of the ES-26. With a 26” cutting width, this mower is available with a standard front roller for maintaining fine turf sports surfaces such as golf greens and tees.

The E-Series features a robust LCD keypad screen which provides the operator with a multitude of information options including speed, clip rate, service checks, lifetime running reports and battery information. The mowers take just 2-3 hours for an ultra-fast full battery recharge.

For further information or a no obligation demonstration, please contact Dennis 01332 824 777 or visit www.dennisuk.com

The 2023 26th annual Racecourse Groundstaff Awards is now open for submissions.

New for 2023, the Richard Linley Award will reward the best newcomer to British horseracing. The Award is named in honour of Richard Linley, the former BHA Senior Inspector of Racecourses who recently retired after 35 years of service.

The awards celebrate excellence in turf husbandry across British racecourses and are unique in that they remain the only dedicated awards for groundstaff within the sport.

The core Racecourse Groundstaff Awards celebrate the winners and runners-up across the three racecourse types: flat, jump and dual purpose. The winners of each category will go onto the RCA’s Showcase Awards on Thursday 23^rd November at Aintree Racecourse where an overall Groundstaff Champion will be crowned.

The winners of the 2022 Racecourse Groundstaff Awards were announced last November with Agrovista Amenity, DLF Seeds and Duralock proud sponsors.  As with previous Racecourse Groundstaff Awards, an expert judging panel comprised of the representatives from the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) Racecourse Inspectorate, Professional Jockeys Association (PJA) and the National Trainers Federation (NTF) judged the awards, and the

2022 winners were as follows:

Flat Racecourse of the Year                              

Winner - York

Runner Up – Salisbury

Dual Purpose Racecourse of the Year            

Winner – Ascot

Runner Up – Ayr

Jump Racecourse of the Year                           

Winner – Cartmel

Runner Up - Warwick

Special Merit Award

Winner - All racecourses for fortitude and resilience particularly in light of COVID, changing regulation and climate change.

Neil Wyatt Lifetime Achievement                     

Winner - Brian Meikle, Kelso

Most Improved Newcomer                                 

Winner - Luke Randall, Warwick

Groundstaff Champion

Winner – Cartmel

Commenting on the awards, Holly Cook, Racecourse Services Manager, said: “The Racecourse Groundstaff Awards recognise and celebrate the hard work, dedication and commitment of the groundstaff teams across British Racecourses, and are highly coveted and strongly contested by racecourses. 2022 saw the return of the awards for their 25th renewal, following a hiatus during the COVID-19 pandemic and all of the entries from racecourses clearly demonstrated the ongoing commitment to providing the best possible racing surface. 

“The RCA is extremely grateful to our partners at Agrovista Amenity, DLF and Duralock for their support of the awards.”  

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

For more information about MM Sports Seed, visit www.mm-seeds.co.uk.

A new Etesia Attila 98X ride-on brushcutter is helping the luxurious Higher Wiscombe farm and holiday cottages live up to its glowing reputation.

Higher Wiscombe is a 52-acre farm with a cluster of four exceptional holiday cottages in its centre. It is located in the heart of the East Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and is close to the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site and the South West Coast Path.

Alistair and Lorna Handyside are the owners of Higher Wiscombe and they work tirelessly to maintain their award-winning five-star gold cottages. The land and green spaces are equally as important as the accommodation, and no stone is left unturned when it comes to maintaining them.

“In order to make the setting as beautiful as possible, we mow approximately 4 to 6 acres each week, which is about 16 hours of mowing,” said Alistair.

Alistair has recently purchased a new Etesia Attila 98X ride-on brushcutter and his decision to purchase it was based on the success of his previous mower, which also happened to be an Etesia.

 “We bought a third hand Etesia sixteen years ago and it's always been so reliable,” said Alistair. “It was mainly due to it being so good that I wanted to keep with Etesia and the Attila 98X absolutely appealed for the amount of work that we have to do every week.”

Etesia’s Attila 98X ride-on brushcutter is reliable, efficient, comfortable, and safe. The output, combined with 4-wheel-drive and performance makes it ideal for some of the toughest jobs.

The 98X has a 98cm cutting width for more efficient working while eight cutting heights are available between 50mm to 120mm, with one transport position, which is easily adjusted with a centralised lever.

It can be used on slopes up to 30% and its strengthened structure welded tubular chassis offers its operators a better driving position. Furthermore, the electric start offers a high comfort level, rack and pinion steering, plus hydrostatic drive. Special attention has also been paid to sound and vibration levels to reduce them to a very low level – making it ideal for public areas.

Alistair explained how he uses the Attila 98X.

“There are three types of mowing we carry out. One is the paths around the edges of the field, so that our guests can easily see the perimeter and take their dogs for a walk. The second areas are the pasture which we try and keep tidy. The third area is all about brush clearance, which we do twice a year. We'll go in and make sure the brush hasn't intruded into the field boundaries or we’ll use it to clear an area for some replanting.

“The best bit about this piece of kit is its reliability,” continued Alistair. “I'm saying that from someone who's had an Etesia for 16 years and never had a problem.

“There are also three standout features on this model, two of which are brand new to me. One is the pedal at the front which means you can keep both hands on the wheel. When you're doing a long run it is so much more comfortable. The second one is the slope meter, which is a very simple piece of kit, but is a really good warning device and not being electronic it will never go wrong. The third feature I like is the easily adjusted cutting height. I like the fact that you can do it as you're going along. If, for example, you are coming to a bit of particularly high grass, you can simply lift it a bit so that you can cut that and then reverse over it and do it again afterwards.

“The Etesia 98X is a first-class piece of kit and we would recommend it to anybody who's got similar kind of high mixed usage as we do.”

Alistair purchased his new Etesia 98X through Andrew Symons and was quick to praise the support he has received from the Etesia dealer.

“I’ve had a fantastic service from the team there,” he said. “They're going to come and collect it when it needs servicing, and I can't fault the support we've had from them at all.”

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

After 43 years of working for Mansfield Sand, the ever-popular Sharon Morris is retiring.

Sharon originally trained to be an accountant before working for Mansfield Sand. She started as a credit controller for the company and worked her way through the accounts department in various roles before eventually becoming the office manager. Sharon didn’t stop there, however.

“I had so many different positions to start with because I wanted to learn absolutely everything about the business,” she said. “At some point I was offered the opportunity to get out on the road and the rest is history. I had so many years of doing figures and sitting in front of a computer so going out on the road and being involved in sales was something I was really interested in. It was a bit of a lightbulb moment.”

Sharon’s professionalism and personality quickly shone through in her new role. In fact, she grew her first account into a million-pound-plus customer. She admits that it wasn’t easy and at her first show, BTME Harrogate, she went with colleagues who told her to basically forge her own way and get to know people which she did by visiting every stand at the show and introducing herself. In reflecting on the advice Sharon believes that it was probably the best she ever received.

After that it was a case of visiting all the reps and customers, giving them the confidence that Mansfield Sand was the company they needed to deal with. It was all about getting to know people and going to shows was a golden opportunity.

Throughout her career Sharon specialised in sports turf and most of her customers were based at football and golf clubs. As a huge sports fan there couldn’t have been a better job.

“It gave me a special tingle whenever I went into those wonderful stadiums and golf clubs that I would see on television all the time. I felt so privileged and never once took it for granted. One of my proudest moments was when we started dealing with Arsenal FC and Liverpool FC via a contractor. They were two clubs that had been a goal of mine to work with for many years, so it felt like a huge personal achievement when the clubs and the contractors’ showed faith in myself and Mansfield Sand.”

Sharon admits that the prospect of retirement is daunting, but she is looking forward to the next chapter. As a Nottingham Forest FC season ticket holder since the age of 9, she is planning on watching more games and she revealed that her and her partner will become members of Nottinghamshire Cricket Club. She will also be taking more holidays abroad and she is looking forward to being able to attend concerts and theatre shows during the week without the worry of having to set the morning alarm clock. Her 91-year-old mum will also be getting a lot more of Sharon’s attention. 

Although Sharon will have plenty of activities throughout retirement to keep her busy, she will always hold a special place in her heart for her former customers and colleagues.

“It has certainly been a very unique job and I’m proud of the career I’ve had,” she said.  “No one knew me at first, but now wherever I go everyone makes me feel so incredibly welcome.

“Special thanks must go to Mansfield Sand Company and everyone I have worked with over the years, all who have contributed to making my 43 years so enjoyable.”

For more information visit www.mansfield-sand.co.uk

The grounds team at Bromsgrove School has chosen the Dennis ES-34R as its first ever battery-powered mower. 

Richard Hare has been the Head Groundsperson at the prestigious Bromsgrove School in Worcestershire for nearly a decade. In his time at the school Richard has overseen many changes and has produced some truly wonderful sports pitches.

Richard is embarking on another exciting chapter at Bromsgrove School as he starts to explore the world of battery-powered equipment.  

“The school is committed to change and is pushing for sustainability in a massive way. As the grounds team, we are on a mission to do exactly the same,” he said. “Approximately, 99% of the gardening team’s equipment is already battery-powered and our aim as the grounds department is the same. It is slightly more difficult because the equipment is bigger, but the technology is advancing all the time.”

Richard has already taken the first steps towards replacing all his petrol mowers with electric ones, and it all started with a Dennis ES-34R rotary mower.

“I looked at a few other battery-powered mowers, but I think it was always going to be Dennis,” he said. “I’ve always been a big fan of the equipment from Dennis and SISIS. Personally, I think the two brands have the best machines on the market.

“We started by replacing our Dennis PRO 34R rotary mower for its electric equivalent – the ES-34R. I will say that I love the petrol PRO 34R’s – they are brilliant, but the ES-34R is on another level. It is by far the best mower I have ever used.”

The ES-34R is a 34" (860mm) battery powered twin blade rotary mower using the latest lithium-ion battery technology. It is ideal for fine turf mowing and cleaning up operations in stadia and training facilities. Utilising the contra rotating hardened steel blades and low chute ensures maximum collection performance.

While allowing ground staff to achieve an aesthetically pleasing appearance and desired playing surface, the E-Series range will also help meet sustainability and environmental initiatives, minimise carbon footprint, emissions, running costs, HAV's and noise without any range anxiety.

“For a 34-inch mower it is just incredible how easy you can manoeuvre it,” continued Richard. “With it being electric there are less things that can go wrong. We’ve never once had a maintenance issue with it, and we have used it virtually every day since we bought it. It has saved us money on maintenance costs as well.”

Richard also revealed that the ES-34R is just the start of the Dennis electric evolution as he intends on switching his other PRO 34R, and his two G860 and two FT510 cylinder mowers to their electric equivalents.

Oliver Baldi-Turner, a member of the grounds team at Bromsgrove School, provided further insight into how the Dennis ES-34R fits into the maintenance schedule. 

“Predominantly, we use it on the cricket square during the summer and on the rugby pitches during the winter months. It is such a quick machine - we can cut a cricket square in both directions in 42 minutes and a rugby pitch in less than 4 hours.

“We can use the ES-34R for about 7 hours before it needs charging. It is such a quick charge too – we put it on charge while we are having lunch and by the time we are finished, it is pretty much fully charged.

“The ES-34R always provides an equally as good cut, if not a better cut, than most cylinder mowers. Also, it works like a vacuum, so it is picking all the debris up as well. It is a highly efficient mower, leaves a brilliant finish.”

For further information or a no obligation demonstration, please contact Dennis 01332 824 777 or visit www.dennisuk.com

The Course Manager and Head Greenkeeper at the John O’Gaunt Golf Club in Bedfordshire believe that Attraxor® plant growth regulator has played a major part in all the positive feedback they have received this year.

The John O’Gaunt Golf Club is set in over 300 acres of tree-lined parkland and boasts two renowned 18-hole golf courses. The two courses are maintained by an outstanding greenkeeping team.  

Nigel Broadwith is now in his 15th year as the Course Manager and while he admits to being very much hands-on, he still spends most of his time focussing on improving the playing characteristics of the two courses.

Nigel values the input from his Head Greenkeeper Kevin Armstrong, and together they identified Attraxor® as a product which could potentially signal some improvements. 

“Poa annua seed heads are generally a problem in the UK and most courses suffer from them,” said Kevin. “We are no exception, and we were having to verticut weekly, if not more, just to keep on top of them. Mike Williamson from Agrovista Amenity suggested that we try Attraxor® and we started using it in March this year.”

Nigel said: “We had full confidence from the trial work we had seen from Agrovista Amenity. We have used other similar products, but we quickly found Attraxor® to be the best at supressing seed heads.”

Attraxor® is a plant growth regulator containing the active substance, prohexadione calcium and can be used to regulate growth of all managed amenity turf. This active substance inhibits the gibberellic acid pathway, which results in a reduction of turf height and turf biomass. Root growth is promoted whilst turf colour and quality are maintained.

Furthermore, using an innovative formulation for fast leaf absorption, the product provides almost instant results, as it is activated once diluted in water. Contrary to other plant growth regulators that need to be activated by the plant enzymes, Attraxor® can be used earlier or later in the season during cooler weather.

Both Nigel and Kevin elaborated on the success of the product.

“We have seen a massive seed head suppression,” said Nigel. “By the second application it was beginning to be highly noticeable. I do know from other courses in the area that seed heads have been rife this year, but we haven’t experienced that since applying Attraxor®.

“A major improvement has been the playability, and the feedback we have had this year has been really positive in relation to the green speed and trueness. We believe that Attraxor® has had a major part to play in that positive feedback.

“It is such a good product, and I would recommend it to anyone who wants to supress seed heads,” added Kevin. “We’d be happy to welcome anyone to visit our site so they can see how it has worked for us.”

Attraxor® can also be tank mixed with other products, something which Nigel and Kevin are particularly impressed with.

“We use Attraxor® in a tank mix with a liquid feed and this is a huge bonus,” said Kevin. “John O’Gaunt is a very busy golf club, and we don’t always have time to go out with a sprayer, so the more products we can apply at one time the better.”

Nigel agreed: “Back in the early days we would never have dreamed of mixing two products together, but due to the advancements in technology we are now able to. Plus, we are confident in Mike Williamson’s advice that we can mix Attraxor® with other products. We have found this to be incredibly beneficial in terms of the turf health and time and labour.”

In addition to the positive results from Attraxor®, Nigel was quick to point out the importance of working with key suppliers.

“I have been here 15 years and in my first couple of years we really struggled with disease and thatch. We sat down with Mike Williamson from Agrovista Amenity and he recommended some fungicide tank mixes. From that moment things started to improve dramatically, and ever since then we have been working together. I only work closely with a couple of suppliers, and I very much see Agrovista Amenity as part of my extended team.”

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

The SISIS Auto Rotorake MK5 is an ‘essential’ piece of equipment according to Duncan Austin, Head Groundsman at Prees Cricket and Recreation Club in Shropshire.

Prees Cricket and Recreation Club is one of Shropshire’s premier sports and community clubs. Set in beautiful countryside, the Club boasts excellent sports facilities and caters for local sports teams of all ages.

Duncan Austin is the man responsible for keeping the facilities in impeccable condition. He has been working at Prees for six years, but it was in his last position where he first became familiar with the SISIS Auto Rotorake MK5.“I used to do the ground maintenance at a different cricket club for 18 years and we used a SISIS Rotorake there. I knew how good it was and I felt it was something we could really benefit from having here at Prees.

“We have had problems with a lot of thatch, and last year we paid a contractor to undertake a big thatch removal project. I think this also prompted us to go ahead and purchase the Auto Rotorake MK5, so that we don’t have to rely on outside help. Instead, we can keep on top of it and work towards gradually removing all the thatch.”

The SISIS Auto Rotorake MK5 is a powerful self-propelled heavy duty scarifier designed for the removal and control of thatch on fine turf. It is ideally suited to a range of applications from sports field maintenance to lawns and amenities and features several benefits including:

• Contra-rotating reel with specially designed tipped blades for clean, consistent cut and maximum thatch removal.
• Alternative blades for light scarifying.
• Depth of cut adjustment control is mounted on the handle to enable depth to be set whilst moving forwards.
• User-friendly, operator presence controls designed for maximum operator safety.
• Easy-fit collector box.
• 5hp petrol engine with independent drive to wheels and reel.
• Careful weight distribution, slick tyres and full differential ensure ease of turning and minimal surface marking.

Duncan mainly uses it on the cricket pitch but will also use it on the bowls greens from time to time.“One of the biggest benefits of using the MK5 on a cricket pitch is the contra-rotating reels, because if the scarifier turns the same way as the mower then it pushes and compacts the thatch. This just doesn’t happen with the MK5 and that is thanks to the contra-rotating reels.

“We have the brush reel which is really good for prepping before a match cut. It stands the grasses up and helps to give you a good clean cut straight after. We’ve also got the sarel roller/spiker and I like the fact that you can change the cassettes in next to no time.

“I would say that being able to use the Auto Rotorake MK5 for a wide range of tasks is its best feature. You can use it all year round whether it is for scarifying or brushing or using the spiker to keep the surface open.

“It is just a great machine.”

For further information or a no obligation demonstration, please contact SISIS on 01332 824 777 or visit www.sisis.com

ICL has announced the launch of its new website at www.icl-growingsolutions.uk.

The new look website serves as a comprehensive resource for detailed information on the wide range of ICL products including important technical data and application information.

What sets the website apart is the introduction of the new Knowledge Hub. This interactive section of the website hosts a wealth of resources covering a broad range of topics, from detailed articles and videos on golf course and sports pitch management to in-depth information on disease control, industry regulations and much more.

ICL’s new website is live now. Visitors are invited to explore the extensive product pages and delve into the unique content available.

For more information, please visit www.icl-growingsolutions.uk

Sandy Town Council has invested in an eco-friendly ET Lander utility vehicle from Etesia UK, via local dealer RT Machinery, as it takes steps to reduce carbon emissions before 2030.

The vehicle marks an important step in the 'council’s commitment to improving the environment of Sandy'.

Underlining its commitment to the environment and completing one of the actions within its Environmental Plan, Sandy Town Council has confirmed the purchase from local dealer RT Machinery to replace a diesel truck which was coming to the end of its life.

Following several months of research and a number of successful demonstrations with RT Machinery, the council agreed that the new eco-friendly, efficient and long-range all-electric vehicle would offer a versatile solution for the council’s town and green spaces maintenance.

Town Mayor, Cllr Pettitt said: “With 2030 in mind, I warmly welcome the decision taken by the council.

"This compact, all-electric vehicle with zero CO2 emissions will provide our outdoor team with greater flexibility in the way they work throughout the town, given its compact design and off-road capabilities, most especially in the cemetery, recreation and amenity areas and the Pinnacle and Sand Hills.

"The battery will have sufficient range for a full day’s work and can serve as a power source for additional rechargeable, portable equipment such as power saws and strimmers, thus reducing and in time eliminating our carbon footprint.”

After making its debut in 2021, the Etesia ET Lander has taken the industry by storm. 100% electric, spacious, well-equipped and user-friendly, it is built on a robust chassis and has an array of options including a three-way tipper bed with dual control from the fully fitted two-seater cab or by remote control when outside the vehicle.

The new models are fully N1 homologation compliant meaning that the ET Lander is fully road legal along with being able to be used off road. These upgraded models also feature lithium-ion batteries which ensures that the range of the ET Lander will extend to 100km and have a charger system compatible with a standard type 2EV car charger.

The Etesia ET Lander utility vehicle comes complete with a comprehensive two-year warranty and five-year warranty on batteries.

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

MM50 grass seed was recently selected for the construction of nine qualifying tennis practice courts and one show court at AELTC Wimbledon Qualifying and Community Sports Centre Roehampton.

Formally the Bank of England Sports Centre, the site is managed by the All England Lawn Tennis Club. As well as hosting the Wimbledon Qualifying Event, the Club provides facilities for community sport and works with local schools and groups to host sporting activities, training sessions and matches from September to May.

Fineturf, a long-established, sports turf contractor, carried out the vast project at Roehampton due to its long-standing working relationship with AELTC. The project consisted of the construction of nine qualifying practice courts and one show court as well as irrigation to all surfaces.

Jim Coleman, Contracts Manager for Fineturf, explained why MM50 was the seed of choice for the project.

“For over 20 years, we have been using MM Seed. We chose them for this project and many past projects due to their quality and purity of seed. It was the only choice for us, and we have used MM50 on many previous tennis courts. It has always delivered excellent results.”

MM is one of the most respected brands in the UK amenity industry, with over 40 years of experience and knowledge. The extensive product portfolio is second to none with performance proven mixtures that are used at many leading venues in the UK and Europe.

MM50, in particular, is one of the UK’s biggest selling grass mixtures. The hard-wearing ryegrass mix is very fine leaved, has high shoot density, is tolerant to close mowing down to 4-5mm and produces a great colour all year round. It also has quick recovery from damage and play.

The Fineturf team applied MM50 at a rate of 70g per m2 in late summer at Roehampton and Jim quickly saw results.

“The 100% Ryegrass seed germinated quickly and was soon tillering out ready for its first cut - we have always found the germination speed good. The Headstart® GOLD seed treatment always seems to make a difference which can be very important when working to tight deadlines.”

As Jim says, Headstart® GOLD is a revolutionary grass seed treatment that ensures rapid germination. It benefits from minerals such as Phosphorus, Sulphur, Copper and Molybdenum which all help to stimulate root formation, development and growth ensuring that the seedling grass plant develops a strong root system during the critical start-up phase.

The project was another huge success for Fineturf and Jim believes he gets more than just a product from MM.

“We have a close working relationship with Matt Gresty (MM Sales and Marketing Manager) whom we have come to rely on for our technical back up with seed. Working with both MM and Matt during this project has been nothing but positive. Our relationship has grown and enabled us to complete many projects to the highest quality and outcome. We would highly recommend all MM products.”

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