Don’t Get Caught Out in the Next Big Freeze

In late 2010, the UK ground to a halt by the worst winter seen for over 30 years, seeing local authorities, landscapers and grounds maintenance professionals struggle to keep roads, paths and car parks safely open for users.

Many grounds maintenance tasks, such as snow clearance, are seasonal activities, which often results in costly dedicated equipment lying idle during long periods of the year. With budgets being cut across the board in 2011, it makes sense where possible to purchase an attachment which can be driven off an existing power source.

French manufacturer Etesia has recently been enjoying a sales boom as users of their ride-on rotary mowers have been rushing to buy snow clearing attachments and tow-behind gritters for their existing Hydro mowers so that they wouldn’t be caught out in the next big freeze predicted in the coming months.

With its wide range of attachments, the range of Etesia mowers are cost effectively transformed into multi-tasking, all-year-round workhorses for a wide-range of applications including snow clearing and salt/sand spreading.

“At times like this, end users realise the true multi-tasking value of an Etesia ride-on,” commented Les Malin, Etesia UK’s General Manager. “Our accessories such as the snow plough or salt/sand spreader are keenly priced so keeping roadways and paths clear is a very cost effective operation. Our customers have discovered that for a relatively small investment they can be prepared without the need to have expensive dedicated equipment lying idle during long periods of the year.”

The options include:

· A snow blade which can be angled to the right or left and lifted for transportation between sites.

· Wheel (or snow) chains providing grip for quick and safe snow clearance.

· An easy-to-attach, quick release spreader for distributing salt or sand.

For operator comfort in cold, snowy or wet conditions, there is also a glass-panelled cab with optional heater available.

All Etesia accessories are easily fitted to most ride-on models in the range.

“We recommend customers order early to avoid disappointment, or risk getting snowed in".

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

"I have been using Melcourt Sylvagrow for a few years now. Bracken based & no wood fibre or crap within it. I tend to mix in some Perlite depending on what it is being used for. It was sold in 50Lt bags until last spring when they dropped 20% out,…"

"Hi Henry - Sounds like the starter motor is trying to turn the engine over but it has jammed. You could try freeing it off by rocking the machine backwards and forwards. It may work. Did for me on an Etesia 124. Good luck."

"I'm trying out Uncle Tom's Rose Tonic this year as well as Sulphur Rose and am keen to see the results. Obviously I can't recommend them yet, but will report back if they work. "