farming scotland magazine (sept-october 2013)

AGRISCOT 2013 SPECIAL PREVIEW

SCOTTISH PLOUGHING CHAMPIONSHIPS

PLOUGHS • GRAIN DRYERS • MUCK SPREADERS

FLAVOUR OF SCOTLAND

BEAUTIFUL TRACTORS • DROVERS TALES

“OUR FARM SHOP” with LOCHABER FARM SHOP

www.farmingscotlandmagazine.com October 2013

PUBLISHER/EDITORAthole Murray FlemingE-mail: [email protected]: [email protected]

ADVERTISING DIRECTORAthole Murray FlemingTel. 01738 639747

ADVERTISING MANAGERSBarry TweedTel. 01738 550090Email: [email protected] KnightsTel. 01738 447378Email: [email protected]

PRODUCTION DIRECTORChristina FlemingEmail: [email protected]

CON

TENTSOctober 2013

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PUBLISHER’S NOTES

COPYRIGHTThis publication has been produced and published by ATHOLE DESIGN & PUBLISHING LTD who are the copyright owners. No reproduction, copying, image scanning, storing or recording of any part of this publication without the permission of ATHOLE DESIGN & PUBLISHING LTD.

SUPPLIED MATERIALATHOLE DESIGN & PUBLISHING LTD does not accept any liability for loss or damage to supplied photographs or other such promotional material.

FARMING SCOTLAND MAGAZINE is designed, produced and published by Athole Design & Publishing Ltd.

Tolastadh, 18 Corsie Drive,Kinnoull, Perth, Scotland PH2 7BU. Tel. 01738 639747E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.farmingscotlandmagazine.com

©ATHOLE DESIGN 2013

ISSN: 2041–918X

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Main FeaturesScottish Ploughing Championships . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-11Ploughs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16-25AgriScot . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30-51Grain Dryers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55-62Muck Spreaders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76-83Drovers TalesThe diary of Ken Headspeath . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15Flavour of ScotlandFeaturing Highland Fine Cheeses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26Our Farm ShopLochaber Farm Shop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29Beautiful TractorsMinneapolis and a Massey-Harris . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9NEWS SECTIONSArable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-8Potatoes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-14Renewable Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52-54Livestock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63-68Dairy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69-71Sheep. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72-75 Gadgets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84-85Estate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86-88 Future Farmers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89Finance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90-92Machinery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93-100Lifestyle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101-102Lifestyle@Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103-104Lifestyle Car . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105ColumnsIn my View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7NFU of Scotland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11Let’s Cook Scotland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27Farmers Markets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28Farming for the Climate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53Anything but Green. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54The Vet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67Scottish Government . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71National Sheep Association . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73Online Savvy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85Scottish Land & Estates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87Southern Bell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88The Money Man . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91People on the Move . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106Book Review . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106

Getting the subscriptions inThis summer has seen some of the best weather in many years in Scotland, and I must admit to being a typical Scot, in that I have been very ‘red faced’ on a number of occasions with a little too much sun.

We attended the Scottish Game Fair with our own stand for the very first time and wow was that hot! But aside from the burnt skin, we got a fantastic reception from so many people visiting our stand and asking how they can get their hands on the magazine. This response was replicated later at our own local Perth Agricultural Show, where we signed up quite a few readers as subscribers. This is all a great part of our growth and expansion.

We are, of course still relatively ‘new’ to the retail sector, therefore growing our readership is our biggest single aim for the next couple of years.

So, while we still have work to do in accessing and breaking into some more areas within the retail market, we are hugely encouraged by farmers wanting to subscribe and guarantee that their own personal copy is sent out directly.

Subscribing is the way to make sure you get Farming Scotland Magazine on a regular basis.

We will be at AGRISCOT 2013 in November, and we will be pushing the Subscriptions very strongly, after all, for only £15 a year…..you get this to read!

Slàinte,Athole.

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BEAUTIFULTRACTORSSpecially for all our tractor enthusiasts

MINNEAPOLIS-MOLINE, MODEL GTUSA, 1941

MASSEY-HARRIS,GENERAL PURPOSE (4WD)

USA, c. 1932Three great American tractor companies,Minneapolis Steel & Machinery, Minneapolis Threshing Machine, and Moline Plow, joined in 1929 to form Minneapolis-Moline (M-M), which became renowned for its high-quality modern designs, the ultimate being a tractor built with a full cab, radio and heater. The Model GT didn’t have all of these luxuries but M-M advertised it as ‘The Mighty Master of All Jobs’.

FeaturesThe GT was the largest model in M-M’s pre-war catalogue and sported a powerful four-cylinder motor and four-speed transmission. M-M’s distinctive yellow body colour was named Prairie Gold, and the wheels were painted dark red. The GT was one of a range that M-M described as Visionlined, owing to its clean lines and attractive styling.

UsesA standard-tread model like the GT was often referred to as a ‘wheatland’ tractor. Built for heavy drawbar work, the GT was able to pull four to five ploughs. With horsepower to spare, it was also a good threshing tractor.

Related ModelsThe GT was replaced by the GTA. Later the GB and GVI models used six-cylinder diesel motors and pioneered the use of propane (LPG) fuel.

Power & Size55 hp; weight: 3084kg (6800lb)length: 345cm (136in)width: 183cm (72in)height: 193cm (76in)

Manufacturing & DistributionSome 1200 of this model were built in Minneapolis, Minnesota, from 1938 to 1941, with strong sales in North America. Before the US entry into the Second World War, many were sent to Britain under the Lend-Lease programme. The GT also enjoyed good sales in Australia and New Zealand.

The Canadian company Massey-Harris (M-H) built its first tractors in Toronto in 1918. In 1928 M-H purchased the J.I. Case Plow Works of Racine, Wisconsin, which produced the Wallis tractors, and M-H soon centred its tractor production at the old Wallis works. The four-wheeldrive (4WD) General Purpose was the !first M-H tractor created by its own designers.

FeaturesEquipped with a Hercules four-cylinder, ‘flat head’ engine and three-speed transmission, the General Purpose (GP) was one of the first successful 4WD tractors and was offered in orchard and industrial versions. Styling consisted only of a piece of sheet metal over the motor. Those sold in Britain were dark green with red wheels; in North America they were grey with red wheels.

UsesThe GP was built as a cultivating tractor with adjustable wheel widths, 76-cm (30-in) ground clearance and a 1.8-m (6-ft) turning radius. Some had extensions on the controls so that the operator could drive the tractor whilst sitting on a hay wagon, seed drill or other implement, as he would with a team of horses.

Related ModelsAn improved GP with overhead valve motor and optional pneumatic tyres was built in 1936 as a last-ditch effort to generate sales.

Power & Size15–22 hp; weight: 1796kg (3900lb)length: 310cm (122in)width: 122–193cm (48–76in, adjustable)height: 140cm (55in)

Manufacturing & DistributionAround 3000 were built at Racine, Wisconsin, from 1930 to 1936, and were sold in the UK, France, Canada and the USA. It was particularly popular in Canada for market garden work. The GP heralded the light 4WD tractors that are commonplace today.

Images from “Beautiful Tractors – Iconic Models” by Rick Mannen

Available in paperback: £12.99. For further information : www.franceslincoln.com


This year’s 51st Scottish Ploughing championships visit the County of Caithness for the first time when Mr Morgan Milne of Stanstill Farm at Bower near Wick plays host. This is the furthest north the championships have ever been and is most likely the largest public event ever held in the County. Over 250 acres have been earmarked to stage the Championships which will see almost 200 hundred competitors arrive to do battle over two days on October 26th and 27th.

A great deal of planning and work has gone into this event at both executive level and also by a local committee who have gone the extra mile to gather support and sponsorship after they had campaigned for several years to bring the championships to the region. Any misgivings about the distances involved in travelling to the north have been completely dispelled by the level of interest and the incredible amount of support being garnished in the local area.

With such a strong competition ploughing fraternity in Caithness and over the water in Orkney there is great anticipation for this ploughing jamboree which draws competitors from all parts of the country and many look forward to the last great

By Peter Smalloutdoor agricultural event on the calendar and with it the trip to a new part of the country. This year offers many the first chance to visit this remarkable county which is steeped in agricultural history.

The organisers Ploughing Championships (Scotland) Ltd are delighted to welcome world famous plough and farm machinery manufacturer Kverneland as a main sponsor while full line manufacturer New Holland stay on board as Platinum Sponsor. Also supporting are Highland Council and the Royal Highland and Agricultural Society of Scotland.

Joining this list is the oil industry supply company Subsea 7 who operate a pipeline facility adjacent to the site and have offered both financial and practical support. Their financial help has been specifically offered to help bring horse ploughmen north and so far four have committed.

Horses plough on both days and are always a popular draw for the public as they become fascinated by the skills of ploughing the old fashioned way. The sight of pairs of Scotland’s native draught horse the Clydesdale doing what they were bred for always gladdens the heart.

Of course horse ploughing is just a small part of the large scale event and further old skills of ploughing using vintage tractors can also be witnessed as both the trailing and high cut classes offer an insight to a style ploughing which like the horse classes has long since disappeared from our fields.

Slightly more up to date is the vintage mounted classes which show how the revolutionary three point linkage revolutionised ploughing along with many other farming operations. The originator of three point linkage was Harry Ferguson and the championships see a class especially for his design of tractor namely the Ferguson Brown, the Ford Ferguson and the famous Ferguson T 20 and their dedicated ploughs.

A new phenomena in tractor preservation is the classic era which dates from the 1960s and 70s and this too has dedicated classes for both conventional and reversible ploughs and the tractors from this period.

New classes have been organised to accommodate younger ploughmen with Under

26 sections for General Purpose ploughing Reversible Butts which is the world style of reversible ploughing and in the Multi Furrow reversible class. This class and the junior classes are designed to let ploughman enter their everyday ploughs and tractors to get an introduction into match ploughing. Which indicates this is not an elitist event and the organisers are keen for new competitors each year.

Such is Ploughing Championships Scotland Ltd commitment to introducing new ploughmen and raising the standard across the board they held their first training weekend up in Caithness back in February this was also organised to help promote the event at the same time and it is hoped it can be repeated in the Championships host county of Kinrosshire next year.

Three former world champions Andrews Mitchell Snr and Jnr of Forfar and Dave Carnegie of Laurencekirk were joined by Chairman Rab Birrell and local vintage expert John Polson who gave tuition on all


aspects of vintage trailing and mounted, multi furrow and match reversible and match conventional.

The weekend was well attended with students arriving from the Black Isle in the south and Orkney in the north proving that this year’s championships are being well received.

To represent Scotland in the World Championships ploughmen have to qualify for the final day’s Plough Off through the first day General Purpose Reversible and Reversible Butts classes and the winner of both the Conventional and Reversible Plough Off get the chance to represent their country so the day one classes are full of keen competitors with some high tech equipment hoping to make it through. Scottish representatives for European Reversible, European Vintage, Six Nations Vintage and Five Nations Matches are also decided over the weekend.

Farmers and contractors looking more commercially at ploughing can visit the numerous demonstration plots

as manufacturers and local dealers of tractors and ploughs put their latest kit through its paces.

With a whole host of trade stands and displays including vintage farm machinery the event has plenty to offer all members of society with children not forgotten either. Friday prior to the opening day will see children from 7 local primary schools invited through the Royal Highland Education Trust. The children will be shown the reasons for ploughing and how ploughs work and the visit gives them a great chance to see this and other aspects of farming close up.

So if you have never been to this fascinating part of Scotland before why don’t you plan a visit for the end of October and take in the 51st Scottish Ploughing Championships who knows it might turn up something special.

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Dowdeswell 145 SeriesAvailable in Five to Eight furrow versions, the 145 Series ploughs can be specified in shearbolt form with manual (MA) furrow width adjustment or in auto-reset form with manual (MR) furrow width adjustment.

A range of fully mounted, heavy duty, reversible ploughs with manual furrow width adjustment - suitable for tractors of up to 350hp working in-the-furrow or on-the-land.

The Dowdeswell range of 145 Series Ploughs, have been specifically designed to meet the needs of farmer’s and contractor’s where high performance, flexibility and ease of use are needed.

Dowdeswell’s renowned quality engineering has been built into this plough range which, together with our full two year warranty, offers outstanding value.

All 145 Series ploughs feature a side mounted combination depth and transport

wheel, which produces excellent weight transfer for effective lower link sensing with a mounting position which keeps the wheel tucked in close to the beam.

The wheel assembly also features spanner-less depth adjustment and a single pin adjustment from work into transport.

Dowdeswell’s 145 Series plough uses a cast headstock for excellent durability, whilst allowing for category 3 & 3 narrow attachment to the tractor.

Category 4 headstock as standard with optional Cat 3 or Cat 4 Linkage pins. Category 3 headstock with Cat 3 wide or narrow arm position available on request.

Two heavy-duty tapered roller bearings are used to provide a smooth and consistent turnover.

Manual Adjustment (MA) models feature the proven Dowdeswell adjusting system, being easy and accurate, with no need to remove or replace bolts.

Patented parallel sideshift allows easy, hydraulically operated, on-the-move adjustment of the front furrow width. Suitable for tractors down to 50” inside tyres ploughing in-the-furrow and up to 120” outside of wheels or tracks for ploughing on-the-land.

Hydraulic adjustment of the beam angle allows for simple setting of the plough alignment initially and when changing furrow widths to ensure the tractor top link is true.

Gregoire Besson R6 PloughDesigned with user comfort,

PLOUGHING ONToday’s top ten


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robustness and ploughing quality in mind, the Gregoire Besson R6 mounted plough

is suitable for 180 – 280hp tractors and available in 4 or 5 furrows.

The R6 features an offset, curved leg, making it easier to pull, less wearing on

metal parts and more fuel efficient. The 140 x 140mm frame features a suspended headstock to absorb the shock load from the three point linkage on headland manoeuvres. It also provides even weight distribution and allows for a smoother ride on field and headland. The model includes in-cab electronic controls to hydraulically adjust the depth and inclination for ease of use. A transport lock and variable front furrow width from 12 to 20 inches can also be engaged to adapt to all conditions.

Rob Immink, MD of Gregoire Besson UK comments “The R6 provides excellent ploughing results in a range of soil conditions due to its versatility and ease of use. The patented double wheel

PLOUGHS


system is able to plough out wheel marks, allowing for a closer plough to hedges, whilst making it quick and easy to change from road to work.”

Vari-Leader extends Kuhn semi-mounted plough rangeFollowing the extension of its semi-mounted single wheel

reversible plough range with the introduction of the Multi-Leader in 2012, Kuhn has introduced a variable width version to the UK market at in 2013.

Available in 6, 7 and 8 furrow formats, the Vari-Leader is suitable for tractors up to 360 hp, and – with a 110 degree turning radius – has great manoeuvrability on headlands. All models are available with a 35–55cm variable width range. The Z-frame design means there is very little wheel overhang during work at field edges and also allows the potential to fit wide tyres of up to 1200mm diameter, thereby offering good carrying capacity.

The Vari-Leader has a large offset range, with the adjustment made by sliding the drawbar to change the wheel spacing between 1.15m and 1.6m. Working depth adjustment is set simply by using spacers on the lift cylinder at the wheel. Underbeam clearance is 80cm and point-to-point clearance 102cm.

All models of the Vari-Leader are available with Kuhn’s Non-Stop Hydraulic (NSH) safety system.

The Vari-Leader and Multi-Leader ploughs extend a semi-mounted plough range that already includes the Vari-Timer, Manager, Vari-Manager and

Challenger models, suitable for tractors from 80 to 420 hp, with the Challenger available at up to 12 bodies.

Kverneland 150 SeriesKverneland’s 150 series lightweight reversible plough range has been extended further, with the development of a Variomat version which now offers hydraulic furrow width adjustment as an alternative to mechanical furrow adjustment.

Called the 150 Variomat, the plough comes in three- four- and five-furrow versions, and offers greater choice over the mechanically adjusted 150B shear bolt spec and the 150S auto-reset models. Both B and S versions of the 150 plough are now available with hydraulic furrow width adjustment from 30-50cm (12-20in), for those who frequently adjust furrow widths to suit available tractor horsepower and soil types.

A key feature of the 150 series plough is that it doesn’t need vast amounts of horsepower to be handled, nor lifted. Typically, the 150 is suitable for tractors up to a maximum of 150hp. The plough frame gets its own headstock design and parallelogram linkage with a turnbuckle for easy front furrow width adjustment and

Forfar Tel: 01307 462281Perth Tel: 01738 583249Blairgowrie Tel: 01250 870952 Laurencekirk Tel: 01561 378888Dundonald Tel: 01563 851900Doune Tel: 01786 842921

www.agricar.co.uk

2 Annual Payments @ 0% Available on all * first payment is deferred until Jan 2014

Stock Ploughs (terms and conditions apply)

Contact your nearest Agricar depot


PLOUGHS

optimum plough alignment. As an option, the plough can be fitted with hydraulic front furrow adjustment.

The 150 Variomat plough gets a frame design measuring 100x150mm, with 70/75cm underbeam clearance and

85/100cm interbody clearance for optimum performance in various soil and surface conditions.

Lemken Extends its Juwel Plough RangeLemken added the 7 series to its Juwel plough range earlier this year. That means the Juwel is now available from 3 furrow Juwel 7 up to 7 furrow Juwel 8.

The Juwel is a fully-mounted plough available in shear-bolt or auto-reset models. The HydroMatic auto-reset allows 38cm upward travel together with 20cm sideways travel, whilst retaining a strong connection to the plough frame. Break-back pressure can be adjusted hydraulically.

A key feature of Juwel is the DuraMaxx (maximum durability) parts fitted as standard. Key wearing parts are produced without drill or punch holes, meaning they can be hardened further without

WILKS BROTHERSMain dealers in Perthshire

for RABE ploughs

Sales • Service • PartsRepairs for a wide rangeof Agricultural Machinery

Murthly, Perthshire, PH1 4HGTel: 01738 710381 Fax: 01738 710581

PLOUGHS


risk of cracking. The increased hardening results in reduced wear. German tests suggest up to 70% longer lifetime than standard Dural parts used on LEMKEN’s Opal plough range. As there are no bolt holes, the parts are ‘hooked’ onto the plough, meaning time taken to change them is dramatically reduced.

Other features, of the Juwel range, include the ability to adjust the plough angle from the tractor seat. The plough angle can be correctly set, for the first and last time round the field, without leaving the cab.

Overum from KongskildeThe Överum plough range forms an important and growing part of Kongskilde’s tillage line-up. With a factory on the present-day site since the mid-1600s, and producing ploughs from 1850, Överum have a proud and innovative history.

The plough range of 2013 consists of many variants from 2-10 furrows; fully mounted reversible models up to 6 furrows, semi-mounted from 5-8 furrows, and wagon ploughs from 6-10 furrows.

The popular XL body offers versatile performance at depths from 5-12 inches, and most

ploughs are offered in either Xcelsior version (fixed furrow widths, manually adjustable from 14-18”), or VariFlex (hydraulically adjustable furrow widths from 12-20”) ‘2012 saw a healthy increase in our plough sales’, reports James Garrod, Kongskilde UK Sales Manager, ‘and business so far this year has been pretty good too. Last autumn’s challenging conditions meant that many growers went back to a plough-based system in order to achieve decent drilling conditions.

Also, we still firmly believe that the plough is one of the most effective anti-blackgrass weapons in the farmer’s armoury, and we have seen a higher level of enquiries from this year’s shows from people needing both a weed control and bad weather insurance policy.’, adds James. ‘

The key features of all Överum ploughs are a very low draft requirement coupled with low running costs, in particular a sensibly-priced range of specially-designed wearing parts made from high quality Swedish steel.’ Recent tests by the Swedish University of Agriculture back this up, with clear evidence that the


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Överum XL body is among the most efficient on the market, giving genuinely low fuel consumption, low wheelslip and higher overall efficiency. ‘

We’re inviting farmers and contractors to try one of the demonstration models we’ll be using throughout Scotland this autumn, and are confident that

operators will quickly see the benefits of using an Överum plough.’ He concludes.

Pottinger Servo ploughsPöttinger a name more readily associated with grassland equipment has been a plough manufacturer for 37 years, having acquired the German plough manufacturer Landsberg am Lech in 1975. The Landsberg name is synonymous across continental Europe with a high quality robust plough that could handle large amounts of post harvest trash with ease.

Today the Pöttinger Servo plough range is manufactured at the companies Grieskirchen, Austrian headquarters. The Landsberg factory now houses the companies steel hardening facility allowing Pöttinger to produce its own plough wearing parts ensuring operating costs are kept competitive.

The Servo range encompasses models from 2 – 9 furrows with fully mounted and semi mounted models available.

All larger mounted Servo models on offer in the UK feature unique inner beam

strengthening supports. These supports are hidden from view but allow the plough beam to tolerate high loads and forces without the need for external strengthening gussets being welded to the beam. These strengthening struts are bolted in place and are not subject to fatigue as often found with welded joints.

All models can be specified with either shearbolt or auto reset (Nova) protection systems. The Nova models feature a unique individual hydraulic furrow protection system that ensures break away pressure is maintained on all furrows whilst one or more furrows may be tripping. This does away with phantom tripping often encountered with mechanically sprung systems available. Breakaway pressure can also be adjusted to suit conditions by the operator ensuring that ground penetration can be maintained in the hardest of conditions.

All standard models feature a bolt adjustable manual variable furrow width, for those requiring hydraulic control of furrow width Pöttinger offer the Plus models which give a full range of infinite hydraulic furrow width adjustment between 12” – 20” *.

A full range of mouldboards including wide furrow bottom and slatted versions are available as is a complete range of accessories.

Rabe Albatros and Super-Albatros ploughsSuitable for tractors up to 260HP, the Rabe Albatros and Super-Albatros mounted reversible ploughs are available in 4, 5 and 6 furrows.

The Albatros offers a robust four step working width adjustment, with the Super Albatros V model providing

For more information contact your local branchCupar

01334 652445Stirling

01786 477530Perth

01738 622471or visit our website

www.reekie.co.uk

Gregoire Besson Ploughsavailable for demonstration now...

REEKIE GROUP


PLOUGHS

a continuous working width adjustment from 33cm to 53cm.

Both models make use of separate hydraulic rams for

frame alignment and working width adjustment, meaning there is no adjustment to the working width when the frame aligns

before and after turning. The arched plough legs also provide a low centre of gravity and offer ease of use and manoeuvrability.

The HydroAvant function available on both models offers hydraulic stone protection with a cranked lever, hydraulic ram and leg shear bolt.

A wide choice of headstocks, consoles, plough bodies and accessories provide excellent ploughing results in a range of soil conditions. A depth wheel with a damper and joint on the wheel stalk can be mounted further forward or rearward for even depth control. A combination wheel with a damping and swivelling ram offers even depth control, hydraulic working depth control and ease of transport on roads.

Reco’s Ovlac Ploughs The first is a new range of 200HP headstock series of ploughs. This new series compliments the


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existing range of 160, 220 and 260HP models.

The Ploughs are available either with leafspring auto

reset protection, shearbolt or hydraulic leg protection. 4 or 5 furrow models are available with either 85 or 95cm body

clearance. The Plough comes with the normal Ovlac high quality features such as case hardened mouldboards, beam

made from top quality steel, a strong headstock which can be used in either fixed or floating position for true and easy adjustment. The 200HP range is perfectly suited for tractors of 150-200HP.

Vogel and Noot As Europe’s largest plough manufacturer, Vogel & Noot offers a wide product range in various sizes and designs. All VN ploughs are characterised by robust technology with optimal functionality and excellent working quality, highly customised to meet site-specific requirements, with maximum efficiency!

Vogel & Noot manufacturer a range of Reversible ploughs from 2- 11 furrow, both mounted and semi mounted including conventional ploughs

Middle Balado, Kinross KY13 0NH

Tel: 01577 863173

Dealers for Rabe Ploughs

DOWDESWELL AM Phillipwww.amphillip.co.ukConon Bridge : 01349 866021Forfar : 01307 474000Fraserburgh : 01346 541351Glenrothes : 01592 775511Huntly : 01466 799222Perth : 01738 474600

GREGOIRE BESSONReekie Group www.reekie.co.uk Stirling : 01786 477530 Perth : 01738 622471 Cupar : 01334 652445

KUHNRavenhillwww.ravenhill.co.uk Aberdeen : 01224 772577 Dingwall : 01349 863555

Elgin : 01343 541121 Maud : 01771 613246 Turriff : 01888 563561

KVERNELANDW & A GeddesWick : 01955 602207Brora : 01408 621220

LEMKENSellar Agriculturewww.sellar.co.ukNewbridge : 0131 333 2970Perth : 01738 620549Cupar : 01334 658210Letham : 01307 818545Huntly : -01466 792165Forres : 01309 676708Old Meldrum : 01651 872891

OVERUMAgricar www.agricar.co.uk Forfar : 01307 462281 Perth : 01738 583249 Laurencekirk : 01561 378888 Dundonald : 01563 851900Doune : 01786 842921

MLM Engineeringwww.mlmengineering.co.uk Orphir, Orkney : 01856 811282

RABEWilks BrothersMurthly : 01738 710381

RECO/OVLACMLM Engineeringwww.mlmengineering.co.uk Orphir, Orkney : 01856 811282

VOGEL & NOOTAncroft Tractorswww.ancroft-tractors.co.uk Berwick upon Tweed : 01289 331904Kelso : 01573 225213 Macmerry : 01875 617323

George Colliarwww.georgecolliar.comKinross : 01577 863173

DEALERS KEYParticipating Dealers in this Ploughs feature


PLOUGHSThe plough range most popular here in the UK is the XMS range but the growing range is the XM range with the new bodies WXL 430, as described below in a Plough test report in Holland, some 8 plough manufacturers had a plough working during the tests and the Vogel-Noot plough came out as joint top plough for ease of adjustment and working standard.

Their XMS Range-most popular in UK. It includes a particularly ingenious turnover element design with extremely easy adjustment and an outstanding range of equipment options makes the ©plus XMS a versatile universal plough. With a robust frame and legs, it is designed for tractors up to 128 kW/175 hp

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O U RFARMSHOP

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Looking ahead to AGRISCOT 2013By

Andrew Moir, AgriScot Chairman

BRAND NEW MACHINES TO TAKE THE GRAFT OUT OF SANDBEDS

01278 727755 [email protected] www.kittagri.com

• Side Shooter Bucket• Sandman Groomer• Bedding Extractor• Fluffer/Aerator• Adjustable Scraper ……..and more


A look at some of this year exhibitors

42 www.farmingscotlandmagazine.com


RENEWABLEENERGY


Optimum farm efficiency, whether arable or livestock based, relies on good soil drainage to maximise productivity. A functioning drainage system can improve nutrient uptake and result in better crop growth and yields. Livestock health can benefit too, with improved drainage reducing the risk of waterborne disease and parasites and less risk of poaching of soil surface.

Soil type, topography and climate will affect land drainage. Surface and ground water problems plus springs and seepage lines make up the majority of drainage problems seen in Scotland. Specialist drainage problems such as iron ochre and running sand can also be an issue but require different solutions compared to standard drainage problems.

The first step is to make sure existing drainage systems are functioning properly. The most economic improvement is to ensure all open ditches are clean and running freely. Any vegetation or silt should be cleared from the drainage outlet; jetting or rodding will clear silt or iron ochre build up on the base of the pipe ensuring the maximum capacity of the pipe is available. Note that the cleaning out of watercourses is now governed by “The Water Environment (Controlled Activities) (Scotland) Regulations 2011 with information available in version 6.2 of the Practical Guide www.sepa.org.uk/water/water_regulation/regimes.aspx

Once drainage systems are functioning properly, soil

structure should be assessed in problem areas. This could help you to identify any structural issues such as compaction which could be preventing rainfall from reaching the drainage system.

Shallow compaction in arable land can be removed using a plough or cultivator. For deeper compaction, a sub-soiler may be needed. In grassland, shallow compaction can be removed using a slitter, or a flat-lift type sub-soiler for deeper compaction. Sub-soiling or slitting should be done when the subsoil is moderately dry and surface conditions give good traction. Too wet and the soil smears with very little loosening being achieved; this can make the original problem worse by sealing the soil. Spring would be the ideal time to subsoil, flat-lift or grass slit as the drying conditions should allow the loosened soil structure to stabilise for a longer period than soil loosened in the autumn.

If problems still persist after addressing current drainage systems and soil structural issues, a site investigation, carried out by a drainage specialist, will be needed. A plan of the proposed drainage solution should be prepared; the best plans will allow the work to be carried out in stages with the cost of the work spread over a number of seasons if required. Mapping the new drainage on a plan will help you to locate drains easily in the future.

Improving Farm Drainage

David Michie, Agricultural Consultant, SRUC

RENEWABLEENERGY


RENEWABLEENERGY

Are you thinking about allowing development of a wind farm on your land? Or are you one of the fortunate ones who are now seeing an income stream flowing from the blades of those shiny turbines?

Perhaps you should be reviewing things in light of recent news in the coal industry. One fine day those turbines will stop and will have to be removed. Your planning permission will undoubtedly require you to take them down if the site ceases operation. Yes, that’s YOU. You can have whatever contracts you like in place, the obligation will fall on your shoulders (and wallet) as landowner.

The local authorities in areas affected by Scottish Coal sites have called in their performance bonds and are anxiously scanning them to see if there is enough cover. If there is a renewable energy operation on your site, I would suggest you do likewise. The fact is that very few wind farms have been decommissioned. There is uncertainty about exact costs. At the outset, the ball park decommissioning costs were based on a simple estimate of £x per kilowatt of capacity,

with no more scientific application than that. For current sites experts are multiplying that original figure by a factor of four or five.

Now is the time to revisit your contracts. If you had them professionally prepared, they should provide for the levels of performance bond to be reviewed from time to time. Do they? Do they allow you to sell the turbines as scrap to offset expenses? There may be assistance in the terms of the planning consent, with which the developer must comply, but you can’t assume that.

Check the detail and take advice. If your developer goes down, you don’t want to be lumbered with an unexpected financial hit dragging you down with it.

[email protected] www.businesslaw.co.uk

Who pays when the wind turbines have to

come down?By Tom Johnston

Senior Partner, Young & Partners, business lawyers

anythingbut

GREEN


GRAIN DRYERS

New innovations designed by Alvan BlanchThey incorporate the latest refinements to the well-known Alvan Blanch ‘Double Flow’ system and, says the company, will lead to significant reductions in fuel consumption, which accounts for the largest proportion of drying costs.

Total heat recovery from the cooling section of the drier has long been a feature of Alvan Blanch driers. But managing director Andrew Blanch says the technique has now been extended to recover even more heat - from the final drying section.

“We first introduced the concept in a large dockside plant we installed in

GRAIN DRYERSToday’s top ten A look at some of the brands and big machines at work today

Southampton last year and it worked so well we promoted it on several new systems for the 2011 harvest, and are now offering the option for all new driers” he said.

Insulation of the plenum walls is another new fuel-saving option that virtually eliminates radiated heat loss from the drier body, so ensuring almost all the energy used goes into the drying process.

Andrew Blanch said the option had already become almost an automatic choice for the company’s many maize-drying clients in Central Europe.

“And by driving down production costs we have

now been able to offer it as a viable option to UK farmers. We have fitted it on one large drier in Gloucestershire, to good effect,” he said.

“Of course additional features mean additional cost, but by our calculations the pay-back time for these is no more than 1500 operating hours, which makes the systems highly advantageous on driers operating at commercial stores and on farms handling wet grain or running over an extended season.

Other Alvan Blanch fuel-saving innovations introduced include a system for ducting waste heat from a generator

to the drier furnace – already in use on several UK farms.

Customers now also have the option of a hot water or steam heat exchanger operating with biomass-fired driers, to take advantage of the introduction of the Renewable Heat Incentive. These are also offered as a retrofit for existing driers. One drier in Scotland has been converted in this way with positive feedback received from this first harvest season and several other conversions are at an advanced stage of planning.

Chief Industries reception in ScotlandChief Industries UK was delighted with the positive reception received during the company’s first ‘Highlands Show’ - displaying a CD4/24 13t/h dryer, flat and hopper silos, plus Marot & Denis cleaners. The show concluded with a progressive Aberdeenshire farmer buying the dryer and a cleaner off the stand and having them delivered direct to his farm.

CHIEF UK has manufacturing facilities in Maldon. Essex. and is part of the Chief Inc. Group which has three further manufacturing centres worldwide, having nearly 2000 employees.

The CD range of dryers has been developed to be exceptionally efficient

GRAIN DRYERS


and flexible, offering an extensive list of options to fulfil as many customer and legislative requirements as possible. These include multi-fuel options such as gas and steam; solid fuel and oil; direct or indirect firing; fire detection and suppression systems; dust suppression systems; additional silencing; heat recovery; indoor and outdoor; split columns; and stainless steel grain columns.

Our standard range is from 10-300t/h with a specification of fully galvanised bolted constructions, pneumatic positive discharger, internal access, externally clad with thermal insulation, Weishaupt digital burners, Schneider PLC and touch screen control panels with remote internet access.

The CD range of dryers has proved so successful that CHIEF Inc. has invested heavily in new CNC equipment and plans have been approved to double the size of the factory, allowing greater stock of parts, offering shorter and reliable delivery times. The quality and accuracy of manufacture and despatch is extremely high and efficient. In addition to offering complete installation and commissioning services, each dryer is supplied with a dedicated build drawing and 3D solid works assembly instruction manual.

Chief is regularly supplying dryers to over 50 countries and this complements its vast range of silos and associated machinery. Chief UK also represents both Marot &

Denis ranges of equipment from France and can supply sales or spares for any existing installation, having staff with decades of experience.

A sound investment in KongskildeWhen the decision is taken to upgrade or create a new grain handling facility, much thought has to be given to likely increase in farm size and bigger combines delivering greater tons/hour. Unlike wheeled equipment, the grain store is a long term investment and it has to incorporate high capacity, quality equipment capable of dealing with upwards of 5,000 tons per season and for at least 20 years.

The range of mechanical transport equipment available from Kongskilde

today sits well in the specification demanded both in terms of capacity and build quality. Features such as 10mm PEHD wear plate at the base of all horizontal conveyors not only gives increased life expectancy, but makes for much quieter operation.

All trench conveyors and inclined chain conveyors are fitted with deep pitch nylon flights on commercial duty chain. The range extends to 120tph for all bucket elevators, trench conveyors and chain conveyors and is of a commercial quality that will give at least a 20 year life expectancy.

There are many examples of Kongskilde installations to be found in all the grain growing areas of Scotland, generally in conjunction with the GrainTek Tornado Dryer. “ Harvest conditions during 2011 and 2012 in Scotland were an extreme test for all grain equipment, but we are confident that the quality of our equipment stood us apart from many of our competitors” states Malcolm Greves Kongskilde UK Grain Handling Sales Manager.

New Generation of Driers from Master FarmThe new range of Master Driers that have been released this year incorporate many new features. The popular 12 Ton Model is fully Galvanised and the whole range introduces ‘New Age’ Technology which can be personalised to meet


GRAIN DRYERSindividual requirements, with capacities from 10 Ton - 45 Ton and flexibility in specification.

The principle of drying remains the same, but, the emphasis has been to

make Master Driers ‘user’ friendly. They offer efficient drying and simplified operation with manual or automatic programmes. The new operating systems are incorporated in both the

Electric and PTO driven Driers. These operating systems

include an Audible Alarm or Auto ‘Cut Off’ which will alert the Operator when the Drier is loaded, to avoid overflow of grain. Also included is an

internal Moisture Meter for monitoring temperature and moisture. One very popular feature is the Masters Dust Extraction system which not only makes for a cleaner operating environment around the drier but also improves the grain bushel weight.

The Master Eye Telephone Combinator Messaging System will keep you in touch with your Drier, alerting the operator when drying is completed or if the Drier is in need of attention.

One unique feature option available on all models is the “3 Stage Burner”. It is designed with three fuel nozzles which operate in any sequence to give a wide range of temperatures. The main advantage is that it is not necessary to change the fuel jet which simplifies the operation of the burner when drying different crops.

Electric Drive Models are becoming more popular as they can be fully automated and are operated by a small Siemens Computer Unit with ‘Touch screen’ controls. Incorporating a comprehensive menu control panel which gives the Operator many options depending on the crop being handled, allowing for burner ‘operating control’ and ‘top up’ facilities to compensate for shrinkage. All programmes are offered with a full Automatic Mastermatic ‘Touch’ Screen Control System with manual override, all of which allows the crop to be dried to meet individual circumstances.

Masters have also introduced a new range of square section fully

GRAIN DRYERS

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galvanised wet grain bins to complement its range of grain

driers. These are available from 3 – 30 Ton capacities

and are supplied as a flat ‘self-assembly’ kit.

Electric drive the new standard from MecmarNearly all new Mecmar grain driers are driven by threephase electric instead of the more traditional tractor driven machines. The days of tractor driven driers seems to be drawing to an end for many farms. This is for two key reasons, the reduced operating costs and increased productivity offered by electric driven machines.

Connecting a mobile grain drier to the mains could significantly drive down the cost of running the drier. In most situations the cost of powering a Mecmar D 20 T for a three hour batch would be well under £10, markedly lower than running on a

GRAIN DRYERS


tractor. You can also add to this the benefit of freeing up the tractor from sitting on the drier.

An electric drive Mecmar with an automation system

allows the drier to run continuous batches, one after the other. This means that you do not have to be constantly attending to the grain drier. So if you have a Mecmar D

20 T filled up with a full forty tonne hopper behind, you can have three batches of largely unattended drying. With the latest Mecmar systems, the drier can even keep you up

to date on progress via text messages.

With the drier setup to run continuously, the time lost between batches is minimised. The grain drier just gets on with it without the need for an operators input. You could get more batches into a working day by eliminating deadtime and if required pick up two or three additional batches by working automatically into the night.

Continuous mixed flow grain driers from Perry of OakleyAll Perry driers are designed and manufactured in house, to conform to British and international standards. Full technical support and servicing direct from the manufacturer. Very latest PLC program and control panel designed and programmed in house. Capacities from 8 to 100 tph. Widths from 2M to 8M. Designed to BS6399 and BS5950 for structural strength and wind loads calculated on a 50 year event. Fully galvanised. Highly efficient pneumatic shutter discharge. 2mm thick grain column.

The Perry drier has a completely ledge free grain column to help prevent the hang up of straw or dust. Tapered duct design aids an even air speed across the entire drier width The top row of ducts in the drier are manufactured from 3mm galvanised steel to prolong life.

These driers combine the high capacity of a large drier combined with the

GRAIN DRYERS

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flexibility of being able to use either half for drying small batches. If there is only a small amount of crop to be dried then only one column needs to be used. One column can be left filled with one crop whilst the other column is used to dry another. This significantly reduces lost time spent filling and emptying the drier between batches.

The Turbodan Dryer from Tey Farm SystemsFollowing the best weather we have experienced yet in the 5 years we have been attending the Royal Highland Show interest levels were high for the only truly mobile grain drier – The Turbodan - offered by sole UK importers Tey Farm Systems.

Tey Farm Systems specialise in the design, supply and installation of grain handling, drying and storage mainly in the South East of England. However the Turbodan Trayler Dryer has brought opportunities beyond previous trading

boundaries such as Scotland where the naturally wetter climate necessitates grain drying equipment.

Turbodans will dry any combinable crop (among other products) down from any moisture content (provided you can get it out of the combine) without the need for fixed equipment or external power supplies.

The Dryers are manufactured in 3 sizes, 15, 18 and 25tonne – the most popular being the 15t. A 120 horsepower tractor is recommended for the 15t, due in part to the size of the trayler itself. The fan is driven directly via the power take off on the tractor. A small belt driven generator, driven via the gearbox below the fan unit, provides power to the electric control panel and all the motors.

Like all grain driers the control is based on 2 parameters; hot air temperature and grain temperature. The hot air temperature is dependent on the crop type, for example

GRAIN DRYERS

Great Tey Business CentreWarrens Farm

Great TeyCOLCHESTER

EnglandCO6 1JG

Fully refurbished units available from stockFully refurbished units available from stock

59www.farmingscotlandmagazine.com62

feed wheat can be dried at a higher temperature than milling or malting crops, while the grain temperature, which has a direct correlation with moisture content, is generally the same between different crop types.

Having set the hot air temperature and the grain temperature you simply hook the tractor up to the trayler, start up the pto, press and hold the start button and once the burner has ignited leave it to dry the load. Once the press set grain temperature has been achieved the burner will automatically shut down and the blue cooling light will come on.

LIVESTOCK


LIVESTOCK


Has your cattle grazing field no mains water available and a river or stream running by.

Has access to the river been denied due to the lay of the land or SEPA guide lines in a bid to clean up the water quality.

The Power Washer Eco Trough has been designed to try and solve your problem by extracting water from the river without damage to the river bank.

The water trough has a pumping system charged by a 12 volt solar panel into a 12 volt battery unit giving 24 hour drinking.

The battery power is then stepped up to give a high flow trough top up rate of up to 120 lpm allowing a number of cattle to drink at the same time.

The system has been designed and supplied fitted on to a Ritchie of Forfar Water trough

For further details please contact Power Washer 2000 (Harry Kirkwood) on Tel. 01786 461787

or mob. 07808 318735

Power Washer 2000

LIVESTOCK


Conservation Matters LIVESTOCK



THE VETLIVESTOCK

LIVESTOCK


DAIRY


Serving Scottish farmers better

By Richard LochheadRural Affairs and Environment Secretary

The Scottish Government


DAIRY

SHEEP


SHEEP

Recoupling - Lifeline or Millstone?

ByGeorge Milne

NSA Scotland has been criticised for sitting on the fence and not falling in line behind NFUS and the meat processors on the subject of modulation and coupled payments. But we’ve been here before, just a few years ago when NSA Scotland proposed the use of Article 68 and modulation to try to halt the flow of sheep off the hills. It was met by fierce opposition by the same bodies which are now supporting coupled payments.

As far as sheep are concerned, the current proposals for coupled payments are something of a pig-in-a-poke. We’re in the dark about how it would all eventually work out, other than every sheep producer’s SFP would be top-sliced to pay for it. It has not been decided whether all sheep producers would be eligible for headage payments, or whether these would be confined to producers in severely disadvantaged areas such as the North and West Highlands. There is no indication of what the headage payment might amount to, but given that beef production is the

priority and around just 2% of modulated money would be available for sheep, it is unlikely to be more than £2 -£3 per head. Then there’s the red tape which follows regulations like flies around a carcase. Farmers have quite enough cross-compliance worries without having more piled on them.

Re-coupling is not a recipe for restoring numbers to what they once were. It’s intended to maintain numbers at current levels and if they did increase, the headage payment would stop. And then what? So is it all going to be worth it? Nobody knows, and until they do, NSA Scotland will not be supporting any proposals which might prove to be a millstone round the necks of its members and the Scottish sheep industry.


SHEEP



MUCK SPREADERSMUCK SPREADERSPreparing the land with a top ten

Bunnings spreadersAccurate spreading of manures and composts has never been so important as it is today. With this in mind GT Bunning and sons Ltd have dedicated all of their manufacturing capacity and product development to their increasingly popular Lowlander range of rear discharge spreaders. The Lowlander range was first introduced in 1991 and joined the Highlander range which was introduced in 1986.

The Highlander has today been replaced by the Lowlander Widebody range which spans from 18 to 35 tonne capacities.

Although today’s range of models are predominantly ordered with twin vertical augers Bunnings are seeing a considerable increase in the number of machines for spreading wider patterns and more accurate application rates. The former is achieved in a number of different ways

depending on what is required: standard augers on the mk4 Range can be replaced with Widebody Augers, these help to improve the spread width and reduce emptying times and are mainly specified by customers with the majority of materials spread being cattle and pig manure or compost.

A detachable spinner deck can be specified for vertical auger machines, this option has two 1.1 metre diameter

spinning discs and can be taken on or off in under 5 minutes, it is best suited to chicken manure and other products to be spread at wider and lower application rates. Another alternative for vertical auger spreaders is the new simple canopy, this hooks on to the rear of the machine and deflects material down onto the bottom blades of the augers, ideal for spreading products like broiler litter and lime. The most effective and increasingly popular variation for wider spread patterns is Bunnings new HBD design.

Conor side spreadersThe Conor side spreader is one of the strongest and most durable on the market today. It is built to operate in the most demanding of conditions and can handle a wide range of manure from solid to slurry. Conor side spreaders come in 4 models , the 400, 750, 900 and 1000.

Heavy duty bearings are used and an 150mm balanced heavy wall rotor ensure maximum strength and balanced unloading. A protective timber rail is used to prevent loading damage and all models come with heavy duty keyed sprockets,

MUCK SPREADERS


case hardened flails and EN8 splined shafts and all models are finished with high quality 2 pack paint. All models except the 400 come with a hydraulic lid and lights as standard.

Flemings historic experience showsOriginally set up in Donegal in the northwest of Ireland by Robert John Fleming in 1860, ownership of the

company has remained in the Fleming family to the present, ranking as one of the oldest agricultural machinery companies in the UK and Ireland.

Through the generations the company’s product portfolio has moved with the times, original equipment manufactured for the local agricultural hinterland was designed for manual and horse drawn use, this has evolved to the current product line-up of over 100 different machines catering for the low and high horse power of today’s modern tractors and the efficiency requirements of modern farming.

The one ingredient that has been essential and remained constant throughout the 150 year history has been the quality and strength built into all Fleming’s products.

Their MS1000 Muck spreader has keyed Steel sprockets fitted in place with threaded lock nut for easy maintenance. PTO input shaft mounted on 2 HD 4 bolt flange bearings with simple tension

MUCK SPREADERS


mechanism. Drive is provided through a HD 1 inch duplex chain. Lights and reflective triangle mounted high on the rear of the machine with protective steel guard giving better visibility on the road and protection from the wheel splash from the machine.

32 no. HD 13mm flail chains with 100mm sq. hardened discharge plates. Chains fitted to 4 sides of the 140mm heavy duty balanced rotor for smoother unloading. Hydraulic brakes are fitted as standard on the MS1000.

Thirty years from Harry WestHarry West Prees Ltd has been producing the Dual spreader for 30 years and the latest addition to our range is our 3000 gallon Harry West Dual Spreader will accommodate all types of farm yard manure.

The advanced feature of the Dual were recognised as far back as 1982 when it was awarded the Royal Agricultural Society of England GOLD Medal at the Royal Show. Since then many thousands have been sold in the UK. The

design of the Dual, bringing the material forward and weight onto the rear of the tractor, ensures confidence and safety in hilly conditions. All types of materials can be handled,From Solid Dung,Slurry,Poultry Manure,Compost and Long Straw Box Manure. The robust build quality and low power requirements have made the West Dual Spreader the market leader with over 50% share in the UK for the last few years.

With a feed out rotor speed of 508 rpm with 540rpm input it insures an even spread width of up to 21m. This machine is fitted with 650/65 x 30.5R tyres as standard which ensures low ground pressure large rolling radius. Coupled with the low power requirement of the drive and large capacity makes

this machine very economical to use on the larger farms and for long distance work. This model is fitted with anti splash guards as standard.

New look for chain flail XCEL from Hi SpecFor 2013, as part of its ongoing product development programme, Hi-Spec Engineering has introduced a new version of the XCEL 1250 rear discharge spreader, that builds on the well proven features of the previous machine.

The XCEL 1250 is unique in that it uses a rotary chain and flail system to achieve a good break up of material, which is then spread using a pair of spinning discs. This has the benefit that in the event of a


solid object, such as a lump of concrete, being encountered, this will pass through without causing any damage to the spreader, unlike a spreader fitted with vertical beater bars where there is the potential for costly damage to the rotors or bearings.

The new XCEL 1250 spreader has a solids capacity of 12 tonnes, with a loading height of just 2.5 metres, and now features a new curved side panel design that provides an increased internal volume for greater capacity. This new design also has the advantage

that it reduces the risk of material bridging.

To carry material to the slurry door at the rear of the spreader, the new XCEL 1250 is fitted with marine type double floor chains, that are suitable for use with a wide range of manures, both solid or liquid,

sludge or very dry chicken manure. To keep downtime to a minimum, the chain can now be quickly tensioned manually and the hydraulic system has been simplified.

As previously, material for spreading is initially broken-up by a patented and well proven

MUCK SPREADERS

Forfar Tel: 01307 462281Perth Tel: 01738 583249Laurencekirk Tel: 01561 378888Dundonald Tel: 01563 851900Doune Tel: 01786 842921Blairgowrie Tel: 01250 870952

Contact your nearest Agricar depot for thelatest offers on Richard Western Spreaders

www.agricar.co.uk

MUCK SPREADERS


chain flail and spinning disc system. The heavy duty marine grade chains are attached to a horizontal rotor and have a 10 tonne breaking capacity. Each of the chains is fitted with a Hardox steel flail to effectively break-up even the densest of manure. Hardox hard wearing plate is also now used in all the critical wear zones throughout the spreading system for added durability, reliability and minimal downtime.

Richard Western spreaders, a comprehensive range of machines Richard Western Ltd offer a range of spreaders capable of handling a wide range of farm yard manures and compost applications and with farmers and growers paying more attention to the value of farmyard manure and its application the product range has developed to keep pace with current trends.

The Delilah spreader is a popular choice with contractors and farmers and is available with twin vertical beaters or with horizontal beaters and spinning discs. A robust body constructed from 6mm floor and 4mm side plates ensures the machine will stand the toughest of tests. The Delilah spreader is available in 8 - 18 tonne models. A four chain floor system with floating floor slats and individual chain tensioning on each floor chain delivers the manure to the spreading unit. Vertical beaters offer high capacity shredding with thirty hardened tips on each rotor and a continuous spiral rotor constructed from 10mm plate. Blade back stops help keep the blades in place and reduce wear on the rotor mounting points. A heavy duty one piece gearbox unit drives the rotors and all machines come with a wide angled PTO shaft, shear

bolt and rattle clutch on the drive line.

The Delilah is also available with spinning discs and horizontal beaters for customers requiring higher accuracy at low application rates. Two horizontal rotors shred the material and deliver to the spinning disc unit with an adjustable rear panel to allow the operator to determine the

spread pattern. Rotor tips and disc wear parts are all made from Boron hardened steel and a boundary limiter is standard on spinning disc machines. A hydraulically operated rear canopy with safety stops allows the user easy access for servicing the spreading unit. Radar ground speed control with on board weighing and monitoring equipment are


some of the popular options selected with the spinning disc machines.

The company also offers a range of wide bodied machines running on tandem axles for operators looking to carry big volumes of material. The FBS range comprises 12, 16 and 20 tonne models and like the Delilah spreader is available with twin vertical beaters or with horizontal beaters and spinning discs. FBS spreaders have a 2m wide body and a sprung drawbar and tandem or tri-axle axles with springs. Flotation tyres are standard on all FBS machines.

Rolland’s new spinning disc rangeRolland have added a new style disc to their TCE spinning deck range, this comes with four deflectors and a redesigned vane which gives a more even spread pattern and a longer life.

The TCE beater frame which is removable is available on 10t, 12t, 14t, 15t, 17t, 19t single axle Rolltwin models as well as the Rollmax tandem axle range which goes up to 24t, very popular with compost spreading where large volume with little weight is needed.

The massive increase in fertiliser prices have greatly improved demand for the TCE spinning deck where 24m tramlines can be followed to top dress growing crops with

poultry manure and well rotted yard muck. The TCE can also be used for making windrows which enables the farmer to mix different manures and acclerate the rotting process to be able to make a more timely application of spreading.

Rolland have been building manure spreader’s with spinning deck since 1972 so could be considered pioneers in their field. The company is a French family run business which first started in 1946 with wooden sided spreaders, they have now evolved into an ultra modern factory with 6 acres of buildings where all machines are electroplated and powder coated.

Samson goes bigSamson are one of the largest producers of manure and slurry handling equipment in Europe they have been producing manure spreaders for over 65 years and today have some of the most technically advanced machines available in Europe.

They introduced the first twin vertical rear discharge spreader into the UK in 1988 in the form of the Samson 9thm manure spreader Many of these early machines are still working today some 20 years later. In this time the Samson concept has been replicated by many other manufacturers but never bettered for quality and reliability.

Samson produce manure spreaders from 9m3 to 21 m3 in the sp range of spreaders with twin vertical rotors and up to 12m spread width 17m3 to 24m3 in the flex range which come twin vertical rotors or with twin horizontal rotors and spinning deck for spread width up to 24m.

All machines come standard with draw bar suspension, wide angle pto, automatic safety clutch, brakes and lights.

Samson went on their biggest ever product launch through out 2012 starting with the SPE/B 17m3 to 21m3 machines pictured these were followed by smaller machines.

MUCK SPREADERS

MUCK SPREADERS


Strautmann Muck spreaders For the UK market Strautmann offer three ranges of Muck spreader. The BE range has two models. The main

feature of these wagons is their durability. The chassis and body is fully galvanised to give resistance against corrosive products. The floor is made from recycled plastic.

Further recycled material is used across the top of the side walls so as to give protection against damage when loading the wagon. For reliability the floor chains are driven by over

sized sprockets with six drive pushers.

The most common Strautmann models sold in the UK are from the VS range of spreaders. Strong and robust design make them ideal for contractors and large farmers who are looking for high outputs and wide high precision spreading.

Spreading widths up to 24 metres are possible dependent upon materials. Supplied normally with two horizontal beaters and wide spreading discs these machines will do an excellent spreading job with, muck (with or without straw), processed human waste, compost, chicken muck and even lime. Three models ranging from 13 m3 to 14.5m3 have the beaters driven by chains but the flag ship VS2403 20 m3 model has the beaters driven by shafts.

D-K-R AGRICULTURAL SERVICES LTD.

D-K-RAGRICULTURAL SERVICES LTD.Main Dealers for RICHARD WESTERN Spreaders

MUCK SPREADERS

BUNNINGSMLM Engineeringwww.mlmengineering.co.uk Orphir, Orkney : 01856 811282

FLEMINGGarriock Brotherswww.garriock.co.ukLerwick: 01595 694765

HARRY WESTDKR Agricultural Serviceswww.jd-dealer.co.uk/dkagriBiggar : 01899 220897

MLM Engineeringwww.mlmengineering.co.ukOrphir, Orkney : 01856 811282

HI SPECAM Phillipwww.amphillip.co.ukConon Bridge : 01349 866021Forfar : 01307 474000Fraserburgh : 01346 541351Glenrothes : 01592 775511Huntly : 01466 799222Perth : 01738 474600

RICHARD WESTERNAgricar www.agricar.co.uk Forfar : 01307 462281 Perth : 01738 583249 Laurencekirk : 01561 378888 Dundonald : 01563 851900Doune : 01786 842921

SAMSONW & A GeddesWick : 01955 602207Brora : 01408 621220

TEAGLEW & A GeddesWick : 01955 602207Brora : 01408 621220

Linklater Engineeringwww.linklaterengineering.co.ukStenness, Orkney : 01856 851000

DEALERS KEY(Participating Dealers in this feature)


Speed sensors and cam cut out clutches provide protection to the beater and disc drives.

This month August, Strautmann have officially introduced a new range of high capacity high output PS models. There are two sizes available PS2201 20m3 22 ton and the larger PS3401 33m3 34 ton.

Based upon the VS2403 these models are designed for the high end professional users. They are ideal once again for wide spreading 20 to 24 metres dependent upon materials used including Lime.

High quality fine grade steels with Hardox are used for the spreading unit to ensure durability.

Conical side walls ensure positive unloading and optional side wall extensions have a nice feature in that they can folded down when not required.

The VS and PS models can be connected to the tractor by various means. Basic choices are either Direct connection to the tractor spools or by an electric control box.

Operators also have a choice of two Isobus terminals either The Field operator 120

or the Field Operator 300. The field operator 300 allows exchange of data with the office PC and has an interface for a GPS antenna. Fully integrated weighing systems are available as an option

Weighing system are available.

Teagle – Focus on a finer deliveryTeagle Machinery launched the Titan rear discharge range of muck spreaders, manufactured at their production site in Cornwall, in the 1970s. Subsequent side discharge machines followed and now in 2013 following extensive development Teagle bring a completely new range of rear discharge machines to its domestic and international customers, again under the Titan banner.

To ensure that operators of Titan spreaders gain the greatest benefit from the nutrients in their manure, the focus of development has been the design of the discharge beaters to ensure that muck is effectively shredded and evenly spread behind the machine,

whilst offering a long and trouble free service life.

Tom Teagle notes, ‘through field trials we optimised the pitch of the spreading augers which is critical to ensure that muck is finely shredded, too steep and muck is discharged too early, too shallow and discharge rate and spread width are adversely affected. A shallower pitch also results in a greater effective working length of the auger which can do more work. It is also important to have an auger with a smooth and continuous face to ensure that shredding is consistent and even.’ In addition the Titan range uses a beater system that is wider than the body of the machine to enable a greater diameter beater to be fitted. For example, a 10 % increase in beater diameter gives a 10% increase in the tip speed, again essential for effective shredding.

Starting from scratch with the design of the range has enabled us to ensure that all models are well proportioned to ensure high stability, maneuverability, as well as good ground clearance.

Loading remains easy thanks to the low height of the sides.

For greater driveline protection from foreign objects, a set of swinging flails sit at the base of the beater have been developed to fold back under excessive loading. For lighter materials a series of paddles can be fitted in lieu of the beater tips which further improve the discharge rate and spreading width.

As output becomes increasingly important for farmers and contractors alike the height of the beaters has been carefully considered. A massive discharge rate can now be achieved with the tall beater system which is fitted as standard across all models.

The range can broadly be split into three. Starting at the lower end, 6 and 8 cubic meter models are ideally suited to smaller units and offer outstanding manoeuvrability. At the top end 10 and 12 cubic meter models, extendable up to 15cubic meters with greedy boards, are suitable for heavy users or contractors. A crossover model, the 9 cubic meter Titan 9, offers an economic alternative.


The Fletcher family run a large arable and vegetable farm which is run across three locations in Fife. In recent years, two of the three sites have been targeted by criminals, with items such as tools, lead, valuable irrigation piping and other things having been stolen.

A friend of the family recommended that they contact Self Guard, a company based in Broughty Ferry but which operates across central Scotland, to get a bespoke system fitted that could reduce the likelihood of future thefts and help to add peace of mind.

The Fletchers now have a system up and running on their main farm which is able to keep a close eye on their fuel

Securing your farmtank and workshop as well as enable vehicle number plates to be easily read when they enter the farm road. The farm office, as well as the family’s remote devices such as iPhone and iPad, are now able to monitor the four cameras at any time, night or day.

In addition, a second system has been installed at one of the outlying farms, which is also monitored from the same central system.

Robert Fletcher, said:“We installed these systems

over three months ago and have had nothing stolen since. So in that sense they are certainly working. Even just the prevention of one tank of diesel being stolen makes the entire system

value for money. The value of farm machinery is rising all the time and so we need to be able to prevent ourselves from falling victims to theft.

In addition to the security focused system, Self Guard has also helped to make other farm business easier by installing wireless access in the farm yard.

Robert describes how it helps the business:

“A number of our tractors and vehicles have technology, such as autosteer, which requires regular software updates. We are now able to park them in the yard and use the wireless access

to update this software, making life so much easier.

“Essentially, everything we’ve done with Chris at Self Guard has been about making our farming business safer, easier to run and more cost efficient. I would highly recommend other farmers and rural businesses to work with Chris.

Self Guard specialises in the installation of bespoke systems for monitoring both security and livestock on farms.

Building A Good Website - The Basics

byAllan Bewley & Fiona Sloan

Pedigree Farmer Web Design

So you’ve decided on a good domain name and now it’s time to think about the structure of your new website. The planning of your website is a vital part of the process.

• How many pages will you have?

• What will the content be on these pages?

• How useful will the content be to your site visitors?

Try and put yourself in the shoes of your site visitors, they’ve found your website and now you need to keep them interested by providing useful and engaging content. We know that Google like to see website content changing on a regular basis and that’s why we recommend building your website with an easy to use content management system (CMS). With a good choice of CMS it will be easy to update the content on your website yourself without having to get your web designer to do it for you each time you want to make a change. A few examples where the content might be changed on a regular basis on a website are:• Your ‘news page’ where

you want to add regular

news items with or without images.

• Your for ‘sale pages’ where you can easily add an animal for sale, add some text and images and link to live pedigree and EBV information if applicable.

• A ‘gallery page’ where you can add categories and upload images to each category. For example you may wish to create a category for ‘Highland Show 2013’ and upload images of your time showing your livestock there.

Each business is different and that’s why it’s important to choose a web design company that understands your business and what you are trying to achieve. Choosing a solution that is developed specifically for what you need is always usually better than choosing a template based system that you try and make fit.

Next time we will talk about the range of devices (tablet computers, smartphones) people are using to view websites now and the best way to tackle this using modern web design techniques.


Trelleborg Launches a New Website for Tyres and Complete Wheel

Solutions for the Chinese Market

Trelleborg, global developer and supplier of tyres and complete wheel solutions for the agricultural industry, launches its new Chinese language website, a portal to access company information, including its global presence, its latest product innovations and technical solutions.

In 2012, Trelleborg inaugurated a new manufacturing facility in Xingtai, Hebei, China to manufacture high-performance speciality tyres, being the first global company to establish a presence in China for agricultural tyre production.

Online, Trelleborg aims to show to farming professionals the benefits of Trelleborg radial technology. In terms of performance, the high quality and superior features of Trelleborg radial tyres guarantee lower soil compaction, greater traction capacity and reduced fuel consumption, thereby increasing efficiency and improving crop yield.

GADGET NEWSIf you have any technology advances or products you would like to tell us about

send to

[email protected]


ESTATEYork Guns new website is definitely worth the wait

York Guns are excited to announce the launch of their long awaited new website which went live on July 1st. It has already proved an instant hit, with a brand new look it brings York Guns bang up to date with their

online presence and along with social media pages on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest, they surely now cater for all.

Grantown Show celebrates first ever Pride of the Park

awards

Congratulations to Morag Durno, John Pirie and Michael Robertson winners of the first-ever Pride of the Park Awards which were presented at the Grantown Show to recognise outstanding farming in the Cairngorms National Park.

The Park is home to some of the highest quality farming in the UK

and it contributes approximately £42million a year to the Park’s economy and supports around 900 jobs. The Pride of the Park Awards recognise the outstanding contributions made by farmers from the Park and were given for the best sheep, cattle and horses from the Park exhibited at the show.


ESTATERural landowners and the future of Scottish farming

With much media hype around land ownership in recent weeks, it is easy to forget the wide variety of people who work hard every day to manage Scotland’s farms, estates and rural businesses. Land managers across Scotland are continuously striving to maintain and grow economic development through employment and investment, in what are often fragile rural communities.

Scottish Land & Estates’ 2,500 members comprise individuals, public bodies, charities, communities, farms and estate businesses. Much of rural Scotland falls within the stewardship responsibility of our diverse membership and this includes many tenant as well as in-hand farmers. Our collective vision for farming is that all of those involved in the industry must ‘buy in’ to the bigger picture where food security, environmental protection and community wellbeing are priorities. Landowners of all types play a part in making this vision a reality by supporting dynamic and progressive tenant and in-hand farming enterprises, especially as so many are involved in farming.

The success of agriculture-based business is in the interests of everyone in the rural sector. We suggest that as well as a more business-orientated farming framework, Government should

encourage entrepreneurialism and flexibility in the system. These can be achieved through greater freedom of contract in the tenanted sector to encourage new entrants, as well as flexible letting vehicles to encourage more opportunities within the sector as a whole.

Perceived difficulties within the tenanted sector are often exaggerated in the media and the vast majority of landowners enjoy very strong working relationships with their farming tenants. If disputes do occur, we believe these should be resolved amongst the cross-industry experts at the Tenant Farming Forum. Calls for an absolute right to buy – in other words the enforced sale of land from one individual to another, are confined to the radical fringes and even a recent survey of the Scottish Tenant Farmer’s Association showed that the majority of its members would not support such a move.

What is sure is that the current radical hype around land reform, often voiced by those with little practical experience of rural matters, is failing Scottish farming. The hype is sterile, politically-driven and does nothing to generate confidence in the let farming sector, nor does it help foster an environment where a new generation of farmers will flourish.

For more informationwww.

scottishlandandestates.co.ukTelephone : 0131 653 5400

By Paul WakefieldScottish land & Estates

Two decades’ research shows red grouse

responding to warming climate

Red grouse, the king of gamebirds, are laying their eggs earlier in the season in response to warmer springs.

A 20-year long research project by the Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust has just been published in the scientific journal Ibis. The research has monitored the laying dates of red grouse using radio-tagged hens in Strathspey, in the central Scottish Highlands.

Dr Kathy Fletcher, head of GWCT’s Scottish upland research said: “Although warmer Aprils appear to

benefit grouse, warmer Mays and Augusts were not particularly good news for the grouse. A warm May was likely to drive an earlier emergence of craneflies or daddy-longlegs a key chick food. An early fly hatch means the grouse chicks hatch too late to take advantage of the abundant food source. Warmer Augusts result in fewer craneflies surviving to produce eggs for the following year. However, birds that laid earlier tended to have larger clutches and better chick survival.”

TP Chippers come to Scotland

Fraser C Robb has become the Scottish dealer to supply TP Chippers. They are reliable Woodchippers for landscaping & biomass production from Denmark.

Drymen based Fraser C Robb is a family run, customer focused business established for over 35 years.

As one of the first manufacturers of wood chippers world wide TP Wood Chippers are now offering a 3 year warranty. The 3 year warranty accentuates the fact that TP have absolute confidence in the quality and durability of the machines. The largest wood chippers, TP320


Relaxing on the train heading home after a week of travel, I reflect on the journeys and the detours involved. If I ever become famous and make it to Room 101, the first thing I would deposit is people who drive in the middle lane of the motorway. As my mother would say....”they rip my knitting!!” However, I can now add people who drive in the middle lane of the motorway.... while eating their cornflakes from a bowl with a spoon!!!

Having spent a week in England moaning about drivers who only come out on holidays and have no idea about motorway driving, I returned from a successful Royal Welsh Show to take up my next assignment. This involved tour guiding a group of thirty Australian Farmers.

Traveling from Grasmere to Fort William in one day, including two visits and lunch on the way, it is fair to say is a “tight” (impossible) schedule but having sung Flower of Scotland as we passed the border to set the mood, I duly lifted my microphone at Langholm

SouthernBell

DETOURS DELAYS AND

LATE DINNERSto explain about our Borders tradition of riding the marches. “And if you look straight ahead of the bus you can see Langholm Common Riding!!” Whoops! We were being greeted by 200 horses and their riders and a smiling policeman (aren’t they young these days) telling us to turn around.

Now this would be an inconvenience in a car but turning a 40 foot coach and heading back up the only alternative route (track) to Edinburgh, proved to be somewhat of a challenge.

Unperturbed, we continued on our tour and over the next two days we were stopped by a Spanish lorry stuck on a bridge (also the result of the 200 horses) a flock of sheep (and their lambs), two roads closed and finally.....two boats!!! (going through the Caledonian Canal).

Despite the delays and late dinners, not a single Ozzy complained about our roads and they all loved our country, our agriculture and.. our weather (which to be fair, they claimed to have brought with them) so job done!!

ESTATE

Why hedge your bets?

Choosing quality hedge shears has been made easy with the merging of three top models into one with the ARS KR-1000. Hard chrome plated, high carbon steel replaceable blades producing real cutting strength set these shears apart. The blade itself is 2mm wider to create greater strength at the tip in operation, while the pivot cap has been replaced by an easy to adjust screw retainer to keep the accuracy of cutting. A larger oval head M4 screw firmly holds the blades at four times more torque than previous models and the pipes or handles combine the ideal elements of both ultra lightness and durability. These

are ergonomically designed for comfortable handling with minimum fatigue. Being slightly curved the handles and blades produce the optimum angle to cut bushes and grass, while the shock absorber has been enlarged to reduce the burden on the hands. An overall length of 653mm, a blade length of 180mm and a weight of just 780g combine to make these shears the optimum in design and comfort, yet highly productive in use. When there’s a tool that performs so well it’s an easy choice to make.

and TP400 for intensive and biomass product requiring a high level of maintenance will be supplied with one year’s warranty

Struan Robb said “The new TP Woodchipper is a valuable new asset to our product portfolio, for quality and reliable woodchip production”

FUTUREfarmerBig event to celebrate 75 years of SAYFC

Stayin’ Alive @ 75Saturday 30th November 2013, 7pm, at The Hydro, Glasgow.

Over 300 performers from dance and song to comedy sketches, Pinta Princesses and Miss Scotch Lamb winners.

There will be more than 5000 in the audience so it really will be a tremendous way of celebrating 75 years of SAYFC.


Claas expands student placement opportunities

The recent DEFRA report on the Future of Farming Review highlights the importance of attracting young people into agriculture in order for the industry to remain competitive and sustainable, and to meet the future technological challenges that the industry will face.

Whilst the review concentrated on attracting young entrants into actual farming, by the same measure there is a similar need within the agricultural industry as a whole, and CLAAS UK are responding to both this and the need to meet demand for the growth in the CLAAS Tractor business.

As a family company, CLAAS has long been committed to the employment and training of young people, and currently has over 500 vocational trainees within the Group worldwide. In the UK, CLAAS were one of the first to develop their own apprenticeship scheme and has led the way in the development of the industry-wide LTA (Landbased Technician Accreditation) scheme. In addition, many of those now in senior positions within the company, including CEO Trevor Tyrrell and Sales & Marketing Manager Jeremy Wiggins, joined the company’s graduate management trainee programme from University.

First – time farmersNew entrants to take up two Starter-Farms First time farmers in Ayrshire and Stirling have been awarded the tenancies of Forestry Commission Scotland’s newest starter farms.

The initiative is designed to help young farmers get a first step into the agricultural industry. Having won through against strong competition, the new tenants are being given a 10 year lease to establish their own farm business on the national forest estate. Both agreements start on 1st October.

Michael and Fiona Burns and their young family will be the starter farm tenants in Glenside Farm, Kirkmichael, Ayrshire.

Mark Donald and Harriet Smith will be the

new entrants to Rhynaclach Farm in Port Menteith, Stirling. Welcoming the new entrants, Rural Affairs Secretary Richard Lochhead said:

“It is a difficult time for many young farmers who are looking for their first proper foothold into the farming sector. “I’m delighted that Forestry Commission Scotland is helping make this a reality for some young farmers who are very keen to start their careers. “New talent is the lifeblood of any industry and it’s good to see more integration between forestry and farming through the starter farm initiative. “I wish the new tenants every success for the future.”

Mark Donald and Harriet Smith Michael and Fiona Burns

FINANCE


FINANCE THEMONEYMAN


FINANCE


MACHINERY


MACHINERY


We manufacture a range of Material Handling Attachments to fit Telescopic Handlers, Forklifts

and Tractor Loaders - designed to give reliability and durability for handling all materials on farms today.• Grain Buckets • Muck Forks • Silage Grabs

• Stone Forks • Big Bale Handlers for Round Bales, Square Bales or Wrapped Bales, for vertical

or horizontal stacking • Push-off Silage Buckrakes• Silage Shear grabs • Potato Box Tipplers

• Hoppers to fill one tonne Potato Bags• Quick Hitch Attachments and Quick

Hitch conversion adaptors, etc.We can also design and build individual

items to customer specifications.www.murraymachinery.com

Dinneswood, Tarves, Ellon, Aberdeenshire AB41 7LR

Tel: 01651 851636 Fax: 01651 851880www.murraymachinery.com

MACHINERY


www.radiatorservicesscotland.co.uk

MACHINERY


MACHINERY


...More than just rollers!

Dal-Bo UK, Unit 12A Shepherds Close, Aylsham, Norfolk, NR11 6SZTel: 01263 732683 Fax: 01263 732632 e-mail: [email protected]

www.dal-bo.com


Newton, Inveraray, PA32 8UH Tel: 01499 302525

www.redshankkilts.co.uk

Country Classics from Hoggs of Fife

Founded in 1888 and still run by the original family, this year Hoggs of Fife celebrates 125 years of fitting out Farmers and their families with suitable

country clothing and footwear. From the very beginning and right up to the present day, the company has enjoyed a high reputation for its fine footwear and robust work boots. Clothing was a later addition to the product range, a mere century or so ago, and now accounts for about half of the company’s growing sales. In fact, Hoggs’ famous Monarch Moleskin Trousers have become one of the company’s most successful lines.

Nowadays, Hoggs of Fife Ltd. is a multi-million pound

Perfect kilts & accessories – even

using a cow hide!Redshank traditional kiltmakers offer a unique, bespoke and unrivalled service if you want a truly Scottish heirloom kilt. They source 100% wool and silk fabrics from Scotland’s

finest weavers and commission kiltpins, belts and sporrans from Scottish craft businesses to make sure that your kilt makes you feel special, knowing that you look good,

turnover business with the unique distinction of being the only UK brand of stature to concentrate on the provision of clothing and footwear specifically for the agricultural community and associated country professionals.

This season sees a wealth of new lines including Ladies and Men’s Sporting Tweeds and an extended range of top quality

country shirts. The product range has become so extensive that no single retailer is capable of stocking all products. However, the company assures us that if you see a product on the Hoggs website that is not on sale in your local agricultural retailer then it should be possible to order it for you and have it delivered to store within a day or two.


whether you need to be formal or casual.

As an independent kiltmaker, Redshank can buy from all the Scottish weavers and have access to a wide range of tartans or they can have a rare tartan woven or can design a tartan or tweed specially for you. Recent customers include the Clan Claus Society (world headquarters in Ohio) with their Claus of the North Pole tartan. It’s red, green, white and gold and Clan Claus members wore kilts in the tartan at this year’s convention in Santa Claus, Indiana.

Redshank have also designed tweeds and tartans for a wide range of customers ranging from The Isle of Eriska Hotel in Argyll to the Big Sur Vineyard in California.

With an extensive stock of tweeds including Harris Tweed, they also make field coats, shooting jackets, breeks, plus 4s, coats, skirts.

Now here’s something a little different…

When Gordon Boa first contacted Redshank to ask if they could make him a ‘black and white cowprint’ kilt for his wedding, it sounded like a bit of a challenge. When he came to discuss it, they realised that we would have to make his kilt in hair on cowhide, it became even more of a challenge! However Redshank rose to that challenge

First stage was to source a piece of hide that was of the quality needed - even thickness and with a clear pattern of black and white. Then they had to work out how to avoid

Roarin’ into the next 25 years

Curling – the roarin’ game – looks set to continue in Kinross for at least the next 25 years, thanks to the efforts of local curlers.

The Kinross Curling Trust (KCT) is on the point of taking out a long-term lease on the town’s ice rink, with the intention of refurbishing the facility and running it as a member-owned operation.

The condition of the rink, built in 1977 in the grounds of the Green Hotel, has been deteriorating for some years. The roof leaks and there is an annual problem with ‘frost

heave’, a distortion of the playing surface due to lack of under-floor insulation over the sandy soil base. Most pressing of all, EU legislation means that the refrigerant gas used to make the ice will be illegal by January 2015.

The hotel owners cannot justify the estimated £1 million required to upgrade the facility. However, KCT, as a charitable organisation, can access grant funding and other assistance not available to a private owner.

KCT was originally set up to promote the creation of a National Curling Academy in

Kinross, but that project was abandoned due to high costs. KCT then turned its attention to ensuring that curling could continue in the area long-term. Local clubs and individuals have so far helped to raise around £330,000 of the £1 million required to carry out essential upgrades, such as laying a new, insulated, concrete floor, installing a new refrigeration plant and replacing the roof.

Some grant aid is expected from Sport Scotland and the

Trust is actively seeking funding from Perth & Kinross Council, the World Curling Federation and other bodies.

KCT has seven trustees and around 400 members, mainly curlers from Kinross-shire and Fife.

the kilt being too heavy to wear and how to build it so that the pleats would swing. The end result - a truly unique kilt!.....If

want to see it for yourself, and why wouldn’t you?

Fair Isle knitting for the digital generation

Sarah Elwick Knitwear, has embraced the use of cutting edge Japanese Shima knitting technology to bring heritage knitwear stitch patterns to a modern audience in her new knitwear accessory collection for autumn/winter 2013.

Sarah specialized in knitwear on her textile design degree at Winchester School of Art, where the machine-knitting

bug first bit, and has never looked back.


@home

The new Astern collection from Little Tree Furniture

Specialist upcycled furniture maker, Little Tree Furniture, has introduced the Astern range to its already impressive portfolio of upcycled furniture. This beautifully designed collection is made from reclaimed sea boat timbers - hence its nautical name!

Each piece of furniture in the Astern collection is slightly different and therefore completely unique, the range has a cool retro style that is very on trend and will fit beautifully within any décor scheme.

Expert craftsmen source boats that have come to the

end of their lifespan; they dismantle them into large planks removing all bolts, nails and screws, leaving small holes which contribute to the overall worn look. Any paint flecks or superficial cracks are preserved as these are the features that make each piece unique. Reclaimed hardwood such as this has been thoroughly seasoned after years at sea, giving it integrity and a brilliant vintage appearance.

Country Kiln woodburning and

multifuel stoves

All our individually hand made, hand cast multi fuel stoves and wood burning stoves are made from freshly mined iron ore which is far superior and much more crack resistant than the remelted scrap which is the construction material used for most cast iron stoves on the market. The high phosphorous and sulphur content of remelted scrap leads to subsequent cracking. Some of the most expensive brands are made from remelted scrap therefore price is no guarantee of quality. All our stoves have been CE tested and passed to conform with current British and European Safety Standard BSEN 13240.


@home

New Textiles Collection from

Kristjana S. Williams

Icelandic born artist and graduate of Central St. Martins Kristjana S. Williams’ experience spans art, design, fashion and graphics. Kristjana is currently focusing on her designs, layering and interweaving the aesthetic of Victorian prints with modern and contemporary illustration, highlighted in vibrant colours. Inspired by the starkness of Icelandic nature and “the

symmetry that lies in all things living”.

Expanding beyond prints and murals, her intricate and magical designs adorn a capsule collection of large silk scarves and a selection of home designs including trays, cushions and wallpaper.

French Horns (& Grand Antlers)

A natural organic shape or smart rustic texture in the form of a horn or an antler is an easily-introduced antidote to an over-coordinated scheme, and a classic timeless trend.

Responsibly sourced or from manmade materials, a single piece like our Gazelle Black Console Table is truly show stopping with its theatrical tiptoeing antler legs, whilst a pair of Huntsman Silver Antler Wall

Lights are the perfect ‘framers’ when hung symmetrically either side of a grand mirror or carved French bed. It’s simply impossible to not achieve a neat, interior designed look using one (or more) of these pieces!

Huntsman Silver Chandelier £395

The LuxDeco “Alessia Occasional Chairs”

In an impactful cobalt hue, the Alessia Chair will take centre stage in your boudoir or as an occasional chair in a living room. Its simple button tufting and relaxed silhouette combine

effortlessly with the elegant black pedestal base which has a high-gloss finish.


carSsang Yong Turismo

The new SsangYong Turismo arrives in the UK almost without competition. At over 5 metres long and with a 3 metre wheelbase, the car is larger than a standard sized MPV such as the Ford Galaxy, Renault Grand Scenic or SEAT Alhambra, yet is a car rather than a van-derived ‘people carrier’ like the Hyundai i800, Mercedes Viano or VW Caravelle.

Consequently its huge interior space and flexible passenger and load carrying

capability means it can carry seven adults and 875 litres of luggage, through to two adults and 3,146 litres of load space, with seven alternative passenger and load combinations to choose from.

Designed to appeal as family, leisure and business transportation, the new car blends multi-role flexibility with great ride comfort and the appointments and equipment levels of a luxury saloon. Prices starting from just £17,995.

British built Honda

Honda has taken the wraps off the new British built Civic Tourer ahead of its official unveiling at the Frankfurt Motor Show.

The sleek exterior design of the new Civic Tourer houses a spacious interior which delivers exceptional versatility and functionality. It features Honda’s innovative Magic Seat system and offers a class leading boot space of 624 litres with the rear seats in place, up to the window line. This expands to 1668

litres with the rear seats down and up to the roof. The Civic Tourer will be available with the choice of two engines; the new 1.6 i-DTEC engine from the Earth Dreams Technology series and the 1.8 i-VTEC engine in manual or automatic transmission. The introduction of a brand new Adaptive Damper System (ADS) will help to enhance stability and comfort under varying load and driving conditions.

Success for KiaKia’s UK success story continues with new all-time record sales performance – a 3.72 per cent share of an increased new car market.

As the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders

announced a raised forecast for 2013, with total expected sales of 2.2 million, Kia continued to attract strong retail sales and saw its year to date market share reach 3.26 per cent with sales so far amounting to 43,205 vehicles.

PEO

PLE

ON

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Steven RawdingVG Energy Ltd., has appointed Steven Rawding as Technical Manager for the company’s Biomass Heating division - further enhancing and expanding the company’s biomass installation team, now considered to be one of the most credible teams in the UK.

Steven brings to VG Energy over 20 years of technical heating management

experience gained within Scottish Gas where he managed an extensive installation and servicing team of over 60 personnel.

Stuart StaplesBunn Fertiliser Limited has appointed Stuart Staples to a new position of UK Crop Nutritionist. Based at the Bunn headquarters in Norwich, Stuart will be learning about customers’ specific crop nutrient needs and responding with new products and services.

“I look forward to working with our technical sales managers, advisors and customers to assess our whole portfolio, looking to adapt, change and adjust, to better meet customer requirements,” Stuart explained.

James CarrollJames Carroll has stepped up to his new role of After Sales Country Manager UK and ROI determined to continue strengthening New Holland’s offering to dealers and buyers.

He has been promoted from his old position as sales area manager in the Republic of Ireland and brings 16

years’ experience and understanding of the brand.James (39) joined New Holland in 1997 and one of his

key achievements was to help instigate the New Holland apprenticeship scheme at Reaseheath College.

James InglesLeading seed producer Barenbrug has appointed James Ingles to the new position of Head of Agriculture. James has been with the company for 14 years and involved in the agricultural industry for 25 years and will work to develop a wider portfolio in agriculture, exploring complimentary products and opportunities for our customers, whilst

increasing the depth of support offered to our expanding client base.

“These are exciting times to be in the livestock sector, but also challenging ones,” said James.

Robin McArdCase IH has appointed Robin McArd as Harvesting Sales Manager for the UK and ROI.

In his new role Robin has responsibility for sales of Case IH combines and balers, a wide-ranging position which includes dealer sales development and sales training for all Harvesting Products.

A qualified agricultural engineer, Robin has extensive experience of the sales, service and operation of farm machinery which has earned him a strong reputation within the sector, where he is highly regarded for his abilities, particularly as a combine specialist..

farming scotland magazine (sept-october 2013)

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