When you are producing more than 1.5 million plants a year and supplying top name garden centres across the UK, you need a thoroughly reliable system for gathering each diverse plant order from the nursery and bringing it to the distribution point for onward transport.

At the Bransford Webbs Plant Company near Worcester a 24-acre site has been developed over many years since the 1940s, of which today over 10 acres is under glass with much of the rest covered by poly-tunnels. Plant orders often comprise hardy nursery stock from opposite ends of the site and in order to gather plants quickly and efficiently Bransford Webbs has been a long term operator of Cushman electric utility vehicles, or UTVs.

Financial Director Richard Colbourne explains: “Years ago we used to have some petrol powered UTVs and we have also used mini tractors from time to time, but even in the relatively large enclosed spaces of our greenhouses vehicle fumes can be very unpleasant for the workforce. So, back in 2005 we made the decision to use electric pick-ups for collecting plants around the nursery and we currently have a fleet of five.

“Earlier this year the oldest vehicle came up for replacement and we were keen to see whether the latest technological developments could give us a vehicle that was even more efficient.”

50 miles on a single charge

Luckily for Richard, T H WHITE’s newly established Golf & Utility business – a sub-division of T H WHITE Groundcare – and its resident expert Simon Bingham were there to advise. “I knew that the 72-volt Cushman Hauler Pro would be a good solution for Bransford Webbs,” says Simon. “The extra power compared to the earlier 48-volt models is ideal for trailer-hauling tasks in the nursery, and with a 50-mile range from one charge it has the capacity to work all day uninterrupted. You would be surprised at the distance it covers!

“As well as being economical to run, the Cushman Hauler Pro also features an enhanced controller unit which provides more finesse in controlling the machine’s powerful acceleration – an important factor when hauling trailers. Other advances include simpler diagnostics and battery state monitoring.”

The verdict from Bransford Webbs? “The Cushman Hauler Pro is the plantsman’s perfect pony!”

T H WHITE Golf & Utility can help you with a vast range of applications where there is a need for efficient, green and low cost haulage. To discuss the possibilities call Simon Bingham on 07813 835212, or email him at sjb@thwhite.co.uk.

Rob Iddeson, Case IH dealer principal for T H WHITE Pro Agri, has assumed an additional new role as head of T H WHITE Groundcare, managing the business’s four Groundcare branches.

The opportunity arose due to the departure of director Tim Lane, who has left the T H WHITE Group for pastures new.

Rob joined T H WHITE last year having been business development manager at Claydon Drills. He started his career as a farm and estates manager and was later appointed a director at Claas retail dealing with that company’s complete range of machinery.

“Groundcare is a core business for T H WHITE,” said Rob, “and taking responsibility for it is both a privilege and a challenge. I am confident that my strong background in machinery will enable me to take the strategic view that will be necessary to build the business. The key to T H WHITE’s success has always been to deliver the right machine to each customer, regardless of the size and scope of their operation, and then support it with exceptional after sales and service. We will continue to serve our broad portfolio of customers, while seeking out and developing new opportunities.”

Rob will continue his role as Case IH dealer principal.

The T H WHITE Group are delighted to formally launch a new sub-division of the business focusing on Golf and Utility vehicles, named T H WHITE Golf and Utility.

T H WHITE Golf and Utility remains part of the larger T H WHITE Groundcare business, while focusing on market leading brands E-Z-GO, Cushman and Kawasaki, and their ranges of golf, utility, personnel and hospitality vehicles.

Sales Specialist, Simon Bingham, who will be heading up the Golf and Utility brand, brings a wealth of experience from the golf and hospitality sector with over 10 years’ experience in the industry and great relationships with golf courses and businesses across the country.

Simon commented: “While I have many years’ experience as part of T H WHITE Groundcare supporting customers with their vehicle requirements, I am excited to be part of this new venture which will enable me to focus on working specifically on specialist vehicles within the golf, hospitality, hotels and resorts, parks and estates, events and commercial sectors, among many others.

“Coupled with our wholly-owned, dedicated and experienced service engineers working across the country, an extensive hire fleet, competitive finance packages and parts and accessories stocked at our 4 groundcare depots, we are confident in our offer as a truly national provider of quality buggies and vehicles at great value and with outstanding support and back-up.”

As part of the launch, T H WHITE Golf and Utility are proud to showcase the full vehicle line-up on a new website, www.thwhitegolfandutility.co.uk, which highlights not only the brands on offer, but the servicing and hire programmes which are available for individual vehicles through to large fleets, on short- and long-term contracts.

Long-standing customer Alec Fernihough, Director of Gaudet Luce Golf Club in Worcestershire, is delighted to offer his full support to the new operation, commenting:

“We have worked with Simon Bingham and T H WHITE for many years. The level of service that Simon and his colleagues have supplied has always been excellent and this is the one reason why, despite many great deals from other suppliers, we are still working so closely with T H WHITE.

“Knowing that Simon will be heading up the new Golf and Utility division at T H WHITE means that our decision over who to go with when we increase our fleet of buggies next year will be a simple one.

Mark Laing, General Manager at Bromsgrove Golf Centre, added further praise:

“When we look at replacing our fleet of buggies there are a number of factors – price, safety, reliability, ease of maintenance and in the case of dealing with T H WHITE, trust. Personal relationships forged over many years with Simon are worth more than price to us. We trust Simon and T H WHITE to deliver for us, and they do, so we simply don’t look elsewhere. With a great product backed up by an awesome team, why would we?”

Available from T H WHITE Golf and Utility and leading the market into the future of vehicles is E-Z-GO with their ELiTE range of buggies, launched in 2017, which feature maintenance-free Samsung Lithium Ion batteries, increased efficiency, low vehicle weight, reduced charging time and an unprecedented 5-year warranty.

Additionally, visitors to the new website can learn more about the Textron Specialized Vehicles buggy GPS system, Textron Fleet Management (TFM). TFM is available with new golf cars or for retro-fitting to an existing vehicle or entire fleet, with full information on the website about the wide range of benefits available to businesses and golfers in using TFM at their club.

Andre Andrade, Director of International Sales at Textron Specialized Vehicles said:
“T H WHITE has been a longstanding, successful dealership of the TSV brands. We are delighted to be a part of this new venture and look forward to continuing to provide our world-class products, knowledge and back-up support to T H WHITE Golf and Utility.”

While continuing to build on its standing in the golf sector with new and existing customers, T H WHITE Golf and Utility is looking forward to working more closely with businesses in other markets, including hotels, resorts, estates and parks, education providers, event venues and much more.

We welcome any enquiries to learn more about the business, our vehicles and how we can support customers no matter the size, budget or vehicle requirements through the new website or by calling Simon directly on 07813 835212.

A brand new T H WHITE specialist department is being launched this month, focusing on golf and utility vehicles.

The initiative has been born out of the growing demand for golf buggies, hospitality vehicles, personnel transport and UTVs, independent of the main groundcare market. 

T H WHITE is already an official dealer for E-Z-GO, Cushman and Kawasaki vehicles and now our 25 years’ experience in the sector will be brought to bear on delivering the right packages and solutions for every customer.

The new operation will offer the E-Z-GO RXV and TXT ranges in petrol or electric versions plus those with the new ELiTE lithium battery, Cushman Hauler UTVs, Shuttle personnel carriers and Refresher catering and merchandise vehicles.

From Kawaski there will be the famous Mule ATVs.

Aftersales service will be a key part of the venture, working from four branches across the Midlands and the south, as well as on-site repairs and servicing opportunities.

For details visit thwhitegolfandutility.co.uk, or contact Simon Bingham on 07813 835212, sjb@thwhite.co.uk.

Amazone has launched a completely new design of self-propelled mower in its Profihopper range, the Profihopper 1250 SmartLine.

Featuring an updated hydrostatic drive system, it is available in two models: the iDrive with front-wheel drive, or the 4WDi with all-wheel drive capability making it ideal even for the most difficult working conditions.

The compact design provides zero turn for greater manoeuvrability and safety on any terrain and on slopes. With its 1.25m wide, out-front mowing unit, the Profihopper 1250 SmartLine provides an excellent cut in both short and long grass.

Both models are equipped with the SmartCut precision cutting rotor, which has a chevron-shaped blade arrangement for improved cutting and pick-up quality. The robust PowerCompactor auger conveyor system incorporates both a longitudinal and a transverse auger. With a diameter of 150mm, the longitudinal auger has a particularly high conveying capacity which enables the Profihopper to have higher conveying rates, and thus forward speeds, even in long grass.

Grass cuttings are compacted immediately after being picked up by the PowerCompactor system and force-fed into the 730-litre collecting hopper which can hold more than 1,000 litres of uncompressed grass. Less time is thus spent emptying the hopper, increasing productivity. Simple unloading into high-sided transport vehicles is also possible by utilising the Profihopper’s hydraulic high-tip emptying at 2.10 metres.
The Profihopper 1250 SmartLine is ideal for mowing, mulching, scarifying or collecting and can accommodate wide variations in cutting height, weather and vegetation conditions. The mulch flap is inserted for cutting and dropping, ensuring the grass is evenly distributed over the mown area so that important nutrients are returned to the soil. The scarifying blades can be mounted quickly and without tools. Scarifying improves the exchange of light, air, water and nutrients, resulting in a substantial improvement in soil structure.

Even picking up cans, paper and other rubbish is no problem for the Profihopper. The ability to mow, mulch, scarify or collect leaves in one operation saves valuable time.

Find out more about this latest, versatile Profihopper, or book a demo at any T H WHITE Groundcare branch.

The fastest and most efficient way to keep hedges in trim is with a tractor-mounted power arm, and the widest choice on the market comes from McConnel. With 12 different series and 42 distinct models plus thousands of build options, unique bespoke machines can be created.

30-Series compact models can be operated with certain utility vehicles as well as small tractors and, with a reach of 3.4m to 4.8m are ideal for the landscape, amenities and ground-care sectors.

Moving up the scale, the range offers a choice of powerful hydraulics and different reaches to suit everything from the straightforward to the most challenging situations. A variety of different heads can be fitted, including multisaws, cutterbars, and rotary heads and, depending on the configuration specified, McConnel power arms are equally at home cutting hedges, mowing verges, clearing vegetation and trimming brush and shrubs.

Topping the range is the 1,000 series – a favourite with professional contractors and local government teams which offers up to 8m reach, and the Versi-Series which enables operators to cut on either side of the tractor at the touch of a button.

Find out about McConnel power arms at any T H WHITE Agriculture or Groundcare branch.

There are many applications for which a full-size tractor would be inappropriate, impractical and, in many instances, unaffordable. These situations call for a compact tractor, a field in which Iseki has specialised for more than 90 years. The introduction of new models has made the Iseki line-up stronger than ever, and with all models available from T H WHITE Groundcare on either agricultural or turf tyres, the possible applications are far-ranging. Small size, high manoeuvrability and low soil compaction makes these tractors ideal for many new niche farming enterprises where high value specialist crops are grown, often on smallholdings. For example, the changing climate in southern England has resulted in burgeoning wine production and Iseki compact tractors are perfect for working in tight spaces between rows of vines. The same holds good for all forms of precision agriculture and fruit growing.

However, compact dimensions don’t mean a reduction in features or operator comfort. Take the new Iseki TG6675 PS – fitted with turf tyres it is particularly suited for work on golf courses and sports facilities and it can be supplied with a ROPS or a factory fitted, fully air-conditioned Category 2 cabin. It features a 65 hp, four-cylinder, Stage IIIB diesel engine, with F12/R12 Power-shuttle transmission. At the rear is a category 1&2 3-point linkage with a capacity of 1,600kg at the ball ends and 1,500kg at 24 inches. Draft control, two auxiliary valves and a front loader joystick are also standard, while the rear PTO is two-speed with a mid PTO also included on the cabin model. An optional front loader is also available.

New additions to Iseki’s premium economy range are the 46hp TLE4490 and 38hp TLE3400. These versatile tractors can be configured for a wide range of tasks where their light weight and minimal ground impact are a distinct advantage.

Other tractors in the range span the complete gamut of sizes, power outputs and transmission options, providing a solution not only for agricultural and groundcare enterprises, but the many fitments and accessories make them eminently suitable for industry, horticulture and equestrian, applications. Even enterprising homeowners with larger grounds will find endless uses for these compact tractors.

If you would like to find out more, arrange a demonstration to try an Iseki compact tractor for yourself, or discuss a tractor kitted out for your precise needs, just contact the specialists at any T H WHITE Groundcare branch.

T H WHITE Groundcare has delivered the first E-Z-GO RXV ELiTE electric golf cars in the UK to Hagley Golf club in Worcestershire.

The four E-Z-GO RXV ELiTE golf cars purchased by Hagley Golf Club come with an unprecedented five-year, unlimited-amp-hour warranty, and feature Samsung SDI lithium batteries which require zero maintenance and are over 50 per cent more efficient than key rivals. As well as charging in half the time needed by lead acid batteries, they are half the size and a fraction of the weight, taking a load off the turf. It all adds up to the lowest operating costs the industry has ever seen.

Gareth Snelgrove, head PGA professional at Hagley Golf Club, said: “This is our first golf car purchase since 2008. After trying out the E-Z-GO ELiTE golf cars on demo, I knew we had to have them. The lithium batteries are so efficient, and will save us a lot of money in the long run. The cars are so much lighter as well, which means that we can build paths around the course using less expensive material, because the golf cars won’t put half as much pressure on them. 

“We are delighted to be the first club in the UK to have bought the ELiTE golf cars – we have been using them for a while now and they have exceeded our expectations. They can get around 36 holes in one charge, and charge in a fraction of the time compared to our old lead-acid cars. 

“The greenkeeping team love them as well; it’s the only vehicle that they could get on the course in winter without causing damage to the turf. We have to thank T H WHITE for the excellent service once again; we have a great relationship with the staff and they are always willing to help with extra golf cars at events.”

Hagley Golf Club is a 6,376 yard 18-hole golf course owned by Lord Cobham, the owner of neighbouring Hagley Hall. Lord Cobham purchased the club in 2017 from the Garratt family, who owned it since its inception in 1980. The club is set in 170 acres with picturesque views overlooking the Clent Hills. 

To out more about Hagley Golf Club visit www.hagleygolfclub.co.uk, and for the low-down on E-Z-GO RXV ELiTE golf cars contact any T H WHITE Groundcare branch.

The challenge of keeping grass and undergrowth in trim around graves and memorials is a sensitive one – both in terms of maintaining the plots to the standards that families of the deceased rightly expect, as well as avoiding damage to the memorials and mowing equipment when working in tight spaces.

Coventry City Council manages six cemeteries, ranging from a vast and magnificent 19th century burial ground to more modern plots catering for today’s interments and cremations. Responsibility for keeping everything in trim rests with Estate Manager for the Council’s Bereavement Services, Brian Tranter.

“When I started my job three years ago the mower fleet was showing its age,” said Brian. “They were out-front mowers which are not ideal for manoeuvring in the awkward spaces between the headstones, but budgetary considerations meant that we had to extend their working life as long as possible so we purchased new cutting decks as an interim measure.

“When the opportunity came earlier this year to replace the mowers we took a lot of care in making our choice. In fact we had spent almost two years looking at the market and involving the operators who would use the machines in the selection process. After quite a few demonstrations there was a clear winner – the Ferris zero turn range.

“The mid-mounted cutting deck makes these machines far more manoeuvrable than the out-front design we had been using before and they also feature rear discharge which helps to keep the cut grass off the memorials. The size to power ratio is exactly right for our needs.

COMFORT IN USE

“The real winner as far as our team was concerned is the level of comfort. Ferris makes the only zero-turn mowers with independent suspension. As you can imagine, the ground we work on is subject to quite a bit of settlement, resulting in an undulating, uneven surface, and the suspension makes a huge difference over a long working day. The Ferris machines are also the only ones we saw with seat adjustment too – can you believe it?”

The OilGuard system is fitted to the Ferris IS2100Z, extending oil change intervals to 500 hours.

With the decision made, five Ferris mowers were ordered from T H White – four of the popular IS®600Z compact models and a larger IS®2100Z with a 28hp fuel-injected Vanguard engine. This machine is also fitted with the Vanguard Oil Guard System – a large oil reservoir and dry sump replaces the usual arrangement. That makes servicing easier and also extends oil change intervals to 500 hours.

“A big benefit to us is dealing with T H WHITE and Lee Miles who operates from the Redditch branch,” Brian added. “When we need support I know I can call Lee and he will pull out all the stops to get us what we need. It’s great to have that sort of back up from a local dealer who will always go the extra mile.”

So how have the Ferris machines performed during their first few months in service? “What you need to understand,” Brian explains, “is that our grass is nothing like you might find on a golf course. In the newer cemeteries where graves have been recently turfed the Ferris mowers deliver exactly what you would expect from a quality machine – a fine cut and a tidy finish. But in our London Road Cemetery – which dates back to 1847 and was designed by Joseph Paxton of Chatsworth and Crystal Palace fame –  we have to contend not only with very rough ground but also scrub that grows up among the grass and around the stones. The Ferris machines take all this in their stride – for example the IS®2100Z has a cutting deck with adjustment from 3.8 to 12.7cm, meaning that any kind of cut can be achieved. The manoeuvrability makes it possible to work carefully around historic monuments, resulting in one of the best preserved Victorian cemeteries in the country. We like to think we contribute to the very special atmosphere in this cemetery which attracts visitors from all over the world.”

T H WHITE Groundcare is a Ferris dealer and any of our Groundcare branches will be pleased to provide you with more information on the Ferris range or arrange a demonstration. Ferris mowers are also imported from the USA by T H WHITE Machinery Imports – if you are interested in becoming a Ferris dealer please contact our Stockbridge branch on 01264 811260.

Building on the huge success of the MP Series, Ransomes has introduced the all-new HM600 wide area mulching flail mower, while Jacobsen’s new TR320 workhorse replaces the TR3. Both are in our 2018 demo fleet waiting for you to try.

The HM600 has been built in collaboration with Müthing to deliver a robust, reliable mower with the ability to tackle the toughest jobs. From a clean, fine, rolled finish across sports pitches to routine cuts, the HM600 leaves an even spread of mulched clippings. It also tackles the irregular cuts, bringing the lesser maintained areas back under control. The HM600 can visit one work site with the versatility to do it all, the productivity to do it fast and the flail technology for superior presentation. Its light weight (2009kg) and 2.1-metre transport width make it easy to move from site to site. You can lift and lower individual decks, or run all three at the impressive 3.2m maximum cutting width to suit your needs.

The Jacobsen TR320 is a triplex cylinder mower that has been created with usability in mind. The three-wheel-drive configuration utilises a 24.8hp Kubota diesel engine, while the cutting units can be raised to a vertical position giving it the narrowest transport width in its class.

The TR320 also features a switch-operated lift and lower system for the cutting unit and an easy-to-use transmission pedal with a mechanical interlock for transport and mow speed control, and an analogue display screen.

We would be happy to tell you much more about the HM600 and the TR320, but there’s really no substitute for trying them yourself to see just how efficient they are, no matter how demanding the job. To get in the driving seat just contact your nearest T H WHITE Groundcare branch and we’ll do the rest!

DON’T FORGET… If you are not necessarily in the market for a new Groundcare machine, we always have an extensive selection of pre-owned equipment, ranging from mowers to tractors, chippers and much else besides. You can view it all at thwhitegroundcare.co.uk.

For a limited period we are pleased to offer three of the most popular Ferris mowers at very special prices PLUS a free service kit with each mower.

Ferris mowers are the only zero-turn mowers with full suspension, allowing each wheel to move independently. This means you have a more comfortable ride, increased productivity, higher mowing speeds and extended mower life.

All these mowers feature iCD rear-discharge cutting decks and are available now from your local T H WHITE Groundcare branch.

Wessex International – the UK maker of professional turf mowers – has responded to requests from users by introducing the new CRX-320 3.2m golf course and sports turf mower.

Featuring a 3.2m wide cut, the CRX-320 promises to be the most nimble and manoeuvrable Wessex mower to date. With a cutting height adjustable from 10 to 100mm and full width rollers, it delivers a ground-hugging precision cut and full width stripe on the turf.

The wide angle PTO makes tight turns easy and best of all only a 35hp tractor is required to operate the CRX-320. Also, only one spool valve is required, making the mower compatible with the simplest tractor.

The Wessex CRX ‘Swing Tip’ blades and simple belt tension make for easy maintenance while 5mm steel plate decks are robust and durable. The machine is covered by a three-year warranty.

Deliveries of the CRX-320 will begin in August, but T H WHITE will be able to offer demonstrations at our Groundcare branches from May, so make sure you book your demo if you want to see just what this remarkable new mower can do.

You can find out more about Wessex International products at www.wessexintl.com.

With the mowing season upon us, T H WHITE’s Groundcare and Machinery Imports Divisions are ready with all the kit to help estate managers tackle the maintenance of lawn, grass or parkland in the most efficient and cost-effective ways.

It’s not just mowers either – we can supply tractors, spreaders, aerators, rollers, hedge cutters, chippers, shredders, ATVs and UTVs, among many other things. It’s a complete groundcare armoury backed up by top quality service and parts to keep you on top of estate management right through the season.

The line-up features some great new products too. One of the most useful recent introductions is the Spider Mini slope mower, a scaled down version of the big remote controlled Spider models with remarkable capabilities for mowing on difficult terrain and slopes up to 30 degrees.

From leading mower manufacturer Ferris comes the new 400S, a robust and economical 48in triple deck ride-on powered by a 23hp Briggs Commercial Series engine and offering side, rear, mulch and mulch/rear combi discharge.

For zero-turn capability and operator comfort the Ferris IS® 600Z 44in rear discharge mower with independent suspension has to be a top choice.

The famous Wright Stander models with easy step-on, step-off design offer the versatility required for challenging terrain or tight and awkward locations.

In terms of compact tractors suitable for estate work it would be hard to beat the new Iseki TLE 3400 premium economy model. With a 38hp engine, 3-range hydrostatic drive, spool valve, PTO, drawbar and ROPS it offers many features usually only found on larger or more expensive tractors.

Also from Iseki come the SXG series of compact ride-on mowers with high levels of manoeuvrability, reliability and integrated grass collection.

If you prefer to use a trailed mower with an existing tractor or ATV we can supply an extensive choice from UK manufacturer Wessex International, or flail mower/toppers from the Logic range.

Of course, there may be times when you only need a machine for a particular task or a limited period, in which case hiring could be an economic option – see www.thwhitegroundcare.co.uk for details.

All users have different requirements, but whatever challenges you face we can ensure you are equipped with the right kit for the job. To find out how we can help you or to arrange a demo of any items, just contact any of our Groundcare branches.

The ever-increasing popularity of Iseki compact tractors and rotary mowers in the UK has led to the formation of a new company, Iseki UK & Ireland, specifically to distribute the Iseki range in the British Isles. The new business is headed by ex-President of Jacobsen, David Withers.

The formation of the new company comes at a time when the Iseki range is being expanded with exciting new products. Among these is Iseki’s TLE3400 premium economy tractor. Fitted with a 38hp engine and three speed hydrostatic transmission and a lift capacity of 1,000kg, this compact model is ideal for a wide range of tasks from golf and groundcare applications to precision agricultural work where its light weight and minimal ground impact are a distinct advantage. Indeed, a TLE 3400 was selected by Harper Adams University in 2017 for a trial operated with Precision Decisions which set out to be the first in the world to drill, tend and harvest a crop without operators on the machines and agronomists in the field.

The Iseki TLE 3400 is supplied with agricultural or turf tyres as standard. An optional front loader is available.

Two new high-performance out-front rotary mower-collectors have also been launched – the Iseki SF224 and SF235, offered with 22hp or 32.5hp Iseki diesel engines and either 54in (1370mm) or 60in(1525mm) wide decks respectively. The new mowers are designed to facilitate grass cutting and collection in difficult areas and are equipped with easy-to-use two-pedal hydrostatic transmission and automatic or selectable 4WD. There is also a lockable differential for use when conditions demand it. To ensure efficient engine cooling the radiator is fitted with an automatic reversing fan, thus preventing blockage of the grille.

The new collector,  with a class leading capacity of 950 litres, is turbine driven providing uninterrupted high-performance grass transition into the collector, ensuring excellent collection of long or short grass in wet or dry conditions, adding a degree of  compaction. The internal reciprocating grass-shoot maximises the filling, increasing productivity. The collector can tip the cut grass at any height up to 2,125mm, allowing easy emptying into waste skips, truck beds or bins.

The new 60in (1525mm) deck is shaft driven, so no belts to replace, with timed overlapping swing tip blades to ensure that no grass is left uncut even when undertaking tight turns. The cutting height can be adjusted, without tools, using a single point height adjustment lever. Both sizes of decks may be fitted with a mulching plate should it be required.

Operators are well catered for with a spacious, comfortable  platform, ergonomic controls and excellent visibility. Please contact any T H WHITE Groundcare branch for full details.

T H WHITE’s Groundcare Division has welcomed two new recruits in recent weeks, representing an investment from the company in both the growth of the division and continuous improvement in customer service.

MIKE TAYLOR joins the team as Groundcare sales representative, coming from a technical background in parts and service management. “My career so far has been quite varied, with roles in the motor industry as a parts manager and senior service advisor, through to service dispatch manager at a bio-chemical technology company.

“In June 2017 I joined the T H WHITE team as a parts advisor which gave me experience in the groundcare industry, complemented by my knowledge and previous experience in customer service, parts and management. In September I learned that the team was seeking a sales representative and jumped at the chance to use what I had learnt so far to work more closely in the field supporting customers and growing the business. I was offered the job and started on 1 November, covering the Hampshire area working out of the Stockbridge branch.

“One month in and I’m really enjoying my role within the team, and looking forward to a successful 2018 developing lots of positive relationships with customers in my area!”

With Mike moving into the Sales department of the division, new parts advisor NIEL PORTSMOUTH joined the team in December with a wealth of stock and parts experience.

“Most recently I worked for a local business installing, servicing and repairing industrial roller doors, but prior to that the bulk of my experience comes from 22 years in the armed forces. As a squadron quartermaster my responsibilities ranged from ordering and providing full weapon systems and any parts, following repair procedures to working on active duty both in the UK and abroad. For a period after leaving the Army I worked as a tree surgeon so have a good working knowledge of chainsaws and wood chipping equipment too. “I’m a real team player and believe that nothing is impossible if you have the right mindset. My role as part of the team at T H WHITE involves everything from customer service, ordering stock, sorting, packing, distribution and front of house in our parts store. With my experience in tree surgery, my focus will eventually include managing the parts for our Jensen woodchipper range.

“I’m really looking forward to becoming a fully-fl edged member of the T H WHITE family and getting involved in the varied aspects of my new role.”

Cumberwell Park is Wiltshire’s only 45-hole golf course is and certainly among the largest courses in southern England. What makes it even more unusual is the fact that it has always been owned and operated by the James family, ensuring not only a warm welcome for members, guests and visitors, but also bringing great attention to detail in creating and maintaining a course that is highly rewarding to play.

The newest addition at Cumberwell Park is a spectacular 9-hole Par 3 course which offers some great challenges to golfers in a superb setting, but it has added considerably to the task facing the 20-strong groundcare team led by Matthew James. To ensure that all 45 greens across the five 9-hole courses are maintained to the highest standard the Club has recently purchased a second Wiedenmann aerator from Stuart Fry at T H WHITE.

Matt James explains: “Regular deep spiking and deep aeration are important for healthy grass root growth, allowing the roots to penetrate deeper into the soil and thus make better use of water and nutrients. Around 10 years ago T H WHITE supplied us with a Wiedenmann GXi6 aerator which more than proved its capability and worth. Four years ago we upgraded to a Wiedenmann GXi8 which is 1.8m wide and has 32 tines –compared to the 1.4m width and 24 tines of the GXi6. That’s important for us as it speeds up our work considerably. When we decided a second aerator would be essential to keep the additional greens in prime condition we went back to T H WHITE for another GXi8.“Nine members of our team are regularly using the two aerators and they love them! Tine changing is really quick and easy thanks to Wiedenmann’s exclusive ‘QuickFit’ System, meaning we can instantly fit the best tines for the job which tend to be 8mm tines – occasionally with core tines – on the greens in summer and 12mm solid tines in the winter to provide enhanced drainage and aeration.

“Settings and depth control are all done with easy-to-use levers unlike many other machines where you have to fiddle around with nuts and bolts, and there are just six greasing points to take care of. All this enables us to work efficiently and we have been using the new GXi8 on tees, surrounds and approaches as well as the greens. What more could we ask?!”

Testimony to the quality of groundcare at Cumberwell Park is provided by the fact that it is one of the select clubs chosen for the PGA Europro Tour and it has become a firm favourite among the players. If you are interested in raising the quality of your turf to these exceptional levels, find out what a Wiedenmann TerraSpike aerator can do for you by contacting your nearest T H WHITE Groundcare branch.

Yet again E-Z-GO has revolutionised electric golf cars with its ELiTE Series vehicles, powered by Samsung SDI lithium technology.

With high-efficiency, zero-maintenance battery power and an unprecedented five-year, unlimited-amp-hour warranty, ELiTE Series vehicles are over 50 per cent more efficient than key rivals, giving you the lowest operating costs the industry has ever seen. The batteries are half the size and a fraction of the weight of lead acid, taking a big load off your turf. The lithium technology is also a reliable power source that doesn’t fade over time. Whether it’s a new or five-year-old vehicle, ELiTE vehicles will give you and your golfers all the acceleration and hill climbing power they could want.

For the full money-saving story, contact your T H WHITE Groundcare branch.

T H WHITE Groundcare has won the 2017 Textron UK and Ireland Premier Service Dealer of the Year award, as well as a Certificate of Commendation in the Proturf Dealer of the Year Awards.

The awards were made on 11 October when representatives of the T H WHITE Groundcare team attended a UK Dealer Conference staged by Textron Specialized Vehicles at the Crowne Plaza hotel in Colchester.

Textron Specialized Vehicles (TSV) is a global manufacturer with subsidiary brands including Ransomes, Jacobsen, E-Z-GO, Cushman and more in the UK. During the conference attendees were given an update on future products from the TSV group and the opportunity to see the machinery up close, including the new MAR series of mowers, the HM600 and the ELiTE golf car range.

When the Trilby Tour – the only televised amateur golf tournament – arrived at Gaudet Luce Golf Club in Droitwich as part of a series of Regional Championships across the UK, T H WHITE provided additional equipment to supplement the club’s existing Jacobsen machinery.

No less than three Eclipse 322 greens mowers, one GP400 ride-on mower for tees and surrounds, two TR-3 triplex cylinder mowers, two LF570 fairway mowers, a HR600 wide area rotary mower, two Smithco Tournament Ultra greens rollers, a Turfco Torrent blower, a Cushman Hauler Pro-X, and 12 E-Z-GO RXV golf cars were used to maintain the golf course’s championship standard status during the tour.

Course Manager Andrew Laing expressed his appreciation for the support the club received in the lead up to the event: “We have had a relationship with T H WHITE for over 14 years now, and since changing our equipment to Jacobsen back in 2008, we’ve never looked back. The machinery is reliable, and the after-sales support is second to none.”

T H WHITE’s Simon Bingham said: “It has always been important to us to support our customers, both when they ask for it, and also when they don’t! We pride ourselves on our customer service, and Andrew is a brilliant example of the relationship that we strive to achieve with everyone who walks through our door. The course looked fantastic as always, and we look forward to assisting in the same way for future tournaments at the club.”

Spectators at motorsport events understandably spend most of the time with their eyes glued to the track action, but we should spare a thought for the enormous amount of work that goes into keeping the surrounds of a circuit looking their best – such an important aspect of the setting for many of the UK’s best known venues.

Like so many British motorsport circuits, Thruxton – near Andover in Hampshire – started life as a World War II airfield. It was from here that support operations for the D-Day landings were flown, as well as being the departure point for paratroopers who took part in Operation Biting in 1942, during which German radar equipment was seized near the French coast.

The circuit we see today was established in 1968 and follows the line of the airfield’s perimeter road. The infield still hosts a busy airfield and this, plus planning restrictions governing noise, mean that racing can only take place on 12 days each year. Nevertheless, as the UK’s fastest circuit Thruxton is a special place for motorsports enthusiasts and it hosts the British Touring Car Championship in May and the British Superbike Championship in August, among others.

The task of maintaining Thruxton’s grass areas is the responsibility of operations manager Pat Blakeney.

“The trackside areas are important for presenting the circuit at its best as well as providing safe run-off areas for competitors who may get into difficulties,” he says.

“Those are the areas that are most in public view, but we also look after the parking fields as well as the large grass areas in the centre of the circuit and around the airfield. In total it’s about 250 acres.”

Despite the size of the challenge, the limit on the number of racing days has always meant that Pat has had to work with a relatively small budget – the backbone of his kit is one tractor and a tractor mounted mower. After the tractor had been replaced earlier this year Pat’s thoughts turned to the mower: “We had been using a Cutlass Topper which was coming up to 15 years old. It had given good service but it needed to be replaced and we were looking for something that would enable us to cover the ground quickly and also give a good finish.”

Research suggested that a Wessex Proline roller mower – which happens to be made in Andover – could be the answer. After T H WHITE had given a demonstration Pat’s mind was made up and at the beginning of July he took delivery of a Wessex RMX- 300 rigid deck roller mower. He was immediately impressed: “This is the largest rigid deck mower in the range; with a 3m cutting width it helps the team to cover the acreage while the front and rear rollers give an outstanding striped effect – it’s great!

“It was also very nice to deal with T H WHITE again as I started my career by serving an agricultural engineering apprenticeship with them back in 1980. It’s strange how things so often go full circle.”

Wessex Proline roller mowers are available in widths from 1.8m to 8m to cover almost any application. To arrange a demonstration just contact any T H WHITE Groundcare branch.

We are fortunate to have so many wonderful golf courses in the areas served by T H WHITE Groundcare, but maybe Marlborough Golf Club has an unfair advantage.

The ancient market town of Marlborough sits in the valley of the River Kennet amid the sweeping North Wessex Downs – a designated area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Up the hill from the popular town with its bustling shops and restaurants lies Marlborough Common where, in 1888, the Golf Club was established with a 9-hole course. In 1971 an agreement was reached with the local authority to use more land on Marlborough Common and the course was extended to 18 holes on a 117-acre site, today beautifully maintained by head greenkeeper Robin Greaves and his team.

Like many clubs these days, Marlborough has recognised the benefits of obtaining its groundcare equipment through a lease hire package which allows costs to be controlled as well as bringing the certainty of a five-year equipment replacement cycle.

“With more than 100 acres to look after and just five of us on the team, it’s fair to say that the kit is intensively used and comes in for quite a bit of rough treatment,” says Robin. “That makes it very important to have a dealer you can rely on. Whenever we have needed support the T H WHITE team has been on the case straight away, keeping us in business no matter what the challenges. That’s how it has been right from the start.”

When the old lease came to an end the Club decided that for the sake of good management all options should be examined. General manager Les Trute explains: “We called in suppliers of all the major groundcare machinery brands and Robin and I had extensive demonstrations. Mike Harris from T H WHITE Groundcare brought Jacobsen’s latest machines. We could see that the quality and cut from the Jacobsen machines was comparable to anything in the business, PLUS they had a five year guarantee – something that nobody else offered.”

The deal was done and Marlborough Golf Club took seven new Jacobsen machines on a five year lease hire, including greens and tees mowers, rough and fairway mowers and a sprayer/utility vehicle.

“We are impressed with the new machines, which have proved to be reliable and more than a match for our demanding needs,” adds Robin, “and the smaller engine sizes on the larger machines have made them remarkably economic without loss of power. But the aspect that really tipped our decision was the service we get from T H WHITE Groundcare. It’s a local company that really cares about looking after customers and keeping us running even under pressure. You can’t really put a value on that – it’s priceless!”

If you are a groundcare professional and would like to know more about T H WHITE’s services, please contact any of our Groundcare branches listed on page 2.

In the picture: Marlborough Golf Club general manager Les Trute (in the blue shirt), head greenkeeper Robin Greaves (brown jacket) and groundsmen Stephen and Dave Patrick with the club’s new Jacobsen machines.

“Our objective is to be recognised as the golf club of choice in the Thames Valley area,” says Martin Hucklesby, general manager of Goring & Streatley Golf Club. After just two years in the job he has already made significant progress towards that aim at the 122 year-old club which has just reequipped its greenkeeping team with an impressive new machinery line-up, spearheaded by the latest Jacobsen mowers.

Founded in 1895, the club rapidly established a loyal following and was enlarged with land purchases, undergoing a remodelling in 1922 under the guidance of revered designer Harry Colt. Today’s 18-hole course measures 6,355 yards and is glorified by its location in an area of outstanding natural beauty with magnificent views of the Ridgeway and the Thames winding its way from Oxford to Reading.

Course manager Matt Aplin, the man responsible for ensuring that the course always looks its best and offers maximum ‘playability’, explains why the decision was made to go for a major reequipping: “Like many leisure activities golf has been under pressure since the financial crisis of 2008. People are now much more careful about how they spend their disposable income and in a competitive market you have to aim to be the best in order to attract new players. One way we can do that is by offering an outstanding course”.

“We work hard to achieve that and as a result our equipment is used intensively by the greenkeeping team. Last season we began to find that we were spending a lot on maintenance – our machines were getting older and we had to question the economics of keeping them going versus re-equipping.

“We decided to look at the options for acquiring new machinery and invited four suppliers to tender. Our relationship with T H WHITE goes back over 25 years so we naturally included them in the process and I’m so glad we did! Their golf specialist Matt Textor worked extremely hard to put together the right lease/hire package for a complete range of equipment including the Jacobsen mowers”.

“Matt arranged a series of demonstrations and I have to say that the Jacobsen machines were as good or better than all others in every respect. In fact, in my opinion the Eclipse greens mower without doubt gives the best quality of cut on the market – bar none.”

After going through the club’s needs in detail and discussing the project with Matt Aplin and Martin Hucklesby, Matt proposed the following line-up, of which the club took delivery in early April:

• 3 x Jacobsen Greens King 522A hand mowers
• 2 x Jacobsen Mower Caddy trailer
• 3 x Jacobsen Eclipse 322 for Greens and Tee’s
• 1 x Jacobsen LF570 Fairway mower
• 1 x Jacobsen AR522 Contour mower
• 1 x Jacobsen Truckster XD
• 1 x Team Sprayer
• 1 x Turfco 1550 WideSpin Top Dresser
• 1 x Turfco Torrent Blower
• 1 x Smithco Tournament Ultra Greens Roller
• 3 x Cushman Hauler Pro 72 volt utility Vehicles
• 1 x Set of Jacobsen 15 blade bi-directional units
• 1 x GreenTek Dyna Corer
• 1 x GreenTek Thatch-Away Verticutter Unit
• 1 x Wessex 3 Ton tipping trailer

Just one 4 year-old AR522 mower and one strimmer which were still in good condition were retained from the old fleet.

“This is a win/win for the club,” said Martin. “We now have a new and exceptional equipment fleet which is costing us less than before. Even better is the fact that we know exactly what the cost will be every year which makes budgeting easier. On top of that we know that in five years we can renew the entire fleet again under the terms of the deal.”

“We are the only club in our area to drive standards by making this level of investment and we are thrilled to partner with T H WHITE and Jacobsen on such a benefi cial agreement which is great value for money. As well as acquiring the equipment, we also have a superb backup service from T H WHITE and our local representative Matt Textor.”

For information about T H WHITE Groundcare and what it could do for you, visit www.thwhitegroundcare.co.uk or call 0118 976 0088.

In another industry first, Ferris IS®2100Z and IS®3200Z zero-turn commercial mowers are the first models to be fitted with the Vanguard Oil Guard system. This revolutionary technology results in extended maintenance intervals, faster oil changes and prolonged engine life.

The system continuously exchanges oil between the engine and an external oil reservoir. It’s a revolutionary design for a commercial mower that protects the engine oil from thermal breakdown, which makes it possible to extend oil change intervals and produces a cooler running engine. Furthermore, because operators have direct access to the oil filter (positioned immediately beneath the filler cap) and drain tube, changing the oil is quicker, easier and mess-free. The result is a more productive and cost efficient mower.

The basis of the system is a ‘dry sump’ engine. This holds a minimum amount of oil in the sump and a larger quantity in the separate oil reservoir, thus protecting the oil from thermal breakdown. Thermal breakdown occurs when engine heat triggers a chemical reaction in the engine oil, which causes the oil viscosity to change. Correct viscosity is crucial in ensuring the oil flows smoothly while properly coating metal engine components to prevent metal-on-metal contact.

The external oil reservoir is made from aluminium which disperses the heat and helps to extend oil maintenance intervals to a recommended 500 hours instead of the typical 100 hours. The reservoir is made from 3.2mm thick aluminium which has a very good corrosion resistance and is extremely robust.

A pump at the base of the engine circulates oil from the engine to the reservoir where it passes through the filter and then flows from the base of the tank back to the engine by gravity.

Oil changes are faster and easier than ever, as the engine oil can be changed without tools. The oil is drained via a valve at the rear of the machine. The oil reservoir cap is removed by a quarter turn, revealing the oil filter which is also removed with a quarter turn. The widemouth tank opening easily takes five litre oil bottles for no mess and no need for a funnel.

The Vanguard Oil Guard system will be exclusively available on Ferris® mowers and is a factory-integrated technology, not an aftermarket add-on.

This issue of WHITE’S WORLD celebrates a number of notable anniversaries, one of which is a major milestone in the grounds care industry. 2017 sees Ransomes Jacobsen celebrating the 185th anniversary of mower production at Ipswich.

Edwin Budding’s historic lawnmower design was patented in 1830, and JR & A Ransome was the first company to obtain a licence to manufacture this remarkable invention. The first Ransomes-manufactured machine for domestic use was produced in 1832 – the same year that T H WHITE started trading – and by the late 1980s T H WHITE’s level of business in mowing and grounds care equipment was such that it justified setting up the Groundcare Division.

Although Ransomes Jacobsen no longer produces domestic lawnmowers, it is today one of the leading commercial mower manufacturers supplying equipment to golf courses, local authorities, landscape contractors, sports clubs and major sports stadia worldwide.

Alan Prickett, Managing Director of Ransomes Jacobsen commented, “This is a hugely significant milestone in the history of our company; fromthis small beginning, we are now one of the leading grounds care machinery manufacturers in the world. Ransomes mowers have been supplied to monarchies and nobilities across Europe and Asia, and the Ransomes name has become a by-word for quality British engineering. Through the years, the company has had its ups and downs, but today it is a vibrant company with a modern manufacturing plant providing employment and career opportunities to the people of Ipswich.

“If you look at the groundcare manufacturing industry today, you’ll find a huge number of people who either began their careers in Ipswich or have worked for the company, and this has been the case for decades. On a personal basis, I am delighted to be heading a dynamic management team at this significant moment in the company’s history and thank everyone, past and present, for their contribution.”

T H WHITE is equally proud of its long-term relationship with Ransomes Jacobsen, for whom it is one of the UK’s key dealers. Details of the latest Ransomes Jacobsen machines, as well as T H WHITE’s legendary after sales, parts and service, can be found at www.thwhitegroundcare.co.uk

In only its second year as a Wessex ProLine dealer, T H WHITE Groundcare has won the Wessex ProLine Dealer Excellence award 2016.

The award reflects T H WHITE’s highly proactive approach in arranging many demonstrations that have resulted in strong sales. Presenting the award, Wessex Sales Director Steve James cited T H WHITE Groundcare as a truly professional dealer with high standards of customer service and aftercare.

Receiving the award at the new Wessex headquarters in Andover, T H WHITE Groundcare director Tim Lane said: “We are absolutely delighted to receive this reward from Wessex in recognition of our efforts.

“Wessex is very focused on the professional machinery user with the ProLine range and this aligns very well with our overall strategy. With their local facility in Andover the support has been excellent and we look forward to strengthening our relationship well into the future.”

Although we can’t forecast the weather for 2017, we can forecast the arrival of two new lorries for our Groundcare division’s deliveries and collections. Operating from Knockdown and Reading these will strengthen our fleet, enabling us to get hire equipment to and from our customers faster.

We have also been enlarging our stock of mowers of all sizes to suit any job and these are augmented by scarifying and aerating equipment for private and commercial use. Additionally, we now supply a variety of chippers from ‘fit-through-the-garden-gate’ size to ‘chipthe-entire-forest’, so there will be one that’s perfect for your job. Spider and Robocut mowers – specialist, remote-control goalmost- anywhere machines have been added to our hire fleet too, as well as Wiedenmann aerators, core harvesters, and Profithoppers.

You can view the full selection of our hire equipment together with a price list on the website, thwhitegroundcare.co.uk/index.php/hire. If you wish to make an enquiry or just book in advance to avoid disappointment then please call Nick Short on 07887 982334 or 01454 238772, email: groundcarehire@thwhite.co.uk .

Supporting community rugby is a central plank of the Rugby Football Foundation’s (RFF) policy. The RFF was set up by the RFU as a charity in 2003 and today runs the Groundmatch grant scheme which aims to provide easy-toaccess grant funding for capital projects.

Old Salteians RFC was originally set up in 1933 for old boys of Saltley School in Birmingham, but today is open to all. Last year the club applied to the RFF for funding to purchase grounds maintenance equipment for its 12-acre site and was delighted to be awarded £5,000 towards the cost.

Club Chairman Peter Holmes and Secretary Colin Gardner took advice from Keith Kent, the RFU head groundsman, who immediately recommended Iseki’s new TLE3400 premium economy tractor as being ideal for a club with limited funds.

“With the help of the grant, we went to T H WHITE and purchased the Iseki tractor and a Wessex RMX 180 roller mower to go with it,” said Peter.

“We really were impressed with T H WHITE’s service. You hear about some smaller clubs who get disregarded unless they’re placing a large order, but Lee Miles from T H WHITE has been extremely professional and helpful throughout the whole process. T H WHITE also carried out a BAGMA installation process which ensured that all of our operators were fully trained and competent to use the machinery, which was most reassuring.”

The Iseki TLE3400 is part of the TLE series of compact tractors and features a 38hp engine, a three-speed hydrostatic transmission system and a lift capacity of 1000kg, making it a powerful and versatile piece of equipment ideal for sports fields, schools and other grounds maintenance applications.

The Wessex RMX180 has all the features and benefits of the larger models in the range into a compact body which is less than 2m overall width.

As well as acting as club secretary, Colin Gardner also operates the tractor. Commenting on the kit, Colin said: “We are over the moon with our new purchases. The tractor is extremely easy to use; our groundsman and part-time groundsman were able to pick up the controls very quickly. It’s a versatile tractor; in the future, we’ll look at buying more attachments for it, but it’s great to know that it has the capacity for us to be able to use it for a multitude of groundcare practices.

“I can’t find any faults with it; I almost wish the grass would grow quicker so I can use it more often!”

If you think the Iseki TLE 3400 or Wessex compact mowers
could be right for you, contact any of our Groundcare branches
or call Lee Miles direct on 07855 251693.

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It’s easy to forget that institutions such as universities often have extensive groundcare responsibilities. When University of Bristol head gardener James Fiddock needed to replace some life-expired compact tractors, he turned to T H WHITE.

“The university was looking for some tough, versatile and reliable machines that could cope with a wider range of tasks than the old tractors,” said T H WHITE Groundcare representative Stuart Fry. “We have dealt with the University of Bristol for many years and we were very pleased to advise on the new equipment.”

Stuart recommended the ultra-reliable Kawasaki Mule 610 with selectable two or four-wheel-drive, continuously variable transmission and a powerful 4-stroke air-cooled engine. The university took delivery of three Kawasaki 610s in July, just in time for the busiest work of the summer season. Since then they have proved their versatility as pick-ups, transporters and haulage vehicles on varying terrain of the university’s different sites.

T H WHITE once again sponsored the supply of utility vehicles for the Royal Berkshire County Show on 17-18 September this year, as well as electric golf buggies to transport the show officials around the site. On our huge 25m x 30m stand we exhibited Ifor Williams trailers, the new Kawasaki Mule Pro DX and DXT, Greenmech Chippers, Iseki cut and collect and compact tractors, Amazone Horse Hopper and the Ferris and Wright ride on and pedestrian mower range – all attracting much interest.

When Kim Blake, Course Manager at Fulford Heath Golf Club on the southern fringe of Birmingham, was faced with renewing his mowing equipment, he had the courage to take a radical step backwards.

“For about the last 30 years increasingly sophisticated self-propelled mowers have been the machinery of choice at many golf courses,” he says. “But when we needed new machinery I had to think long and hard about the best way to use our money. I knew we couldn’t do without a tractor as we need one to pull a trailed PTO-driven semi-rough mower that we purchased two years ago. We also needed a tractor with an additional 10hp.

“The tractor we had was a 22 year old Iseki which had done incredibly well – it had almost 10,000 hours on it so it was definitely time for a new one, but could I justify buying a self-propelled mower as well?”

In Kim’s mind the answer was clear: buy a new tractor which, among many other tasks, could pull a trailed gang mower rather than having a dedicated self-propelled mower. But that went directly against modern practice.

To help his decision, Kim contacted local rep Lee Miles of T H WHITE’s Redditch branch to arrange a demonstration of a new Iseki tractor and a Jacobsen MH5 trailed mower.

“The tractor we chose was a fully-specified Iseki TG6490 IQ, It’s in a different world from our old tractor with a fitted cab, the latest hydraulic technology and ergonomic controls with superb driver comfort. The Jacobsen MH5 is a tractor-mounted 5-gang large area reel mower. The fully-floating cutting units have 8-bladed cylinders which achieve excellent ground contour-following with a 135in. width-of-cut.

“To be honest, I couldn’t believe the quality of cut,” Kim added. “Of course there’s a disadvantage in having the wheels in front of the mower, but the tractor was fitted with Galaxy balloon tyres and hardly impacts the turf.”

Kim went for it and ordered the Iseki/Jacobsen combination, a decision which three months on he has no cause to regret:

“Many people I know in the business thought I was crazy going back to this old style of mowing and I know it’s not a choice that would work for everyone, but for Fulford Heath it has proved to be the perfect solution. It has reduced the number of engines on site that have to be maintained and I reckon it will save the Club around £20,000 over five years in depreciation and running costs.

“Since we have had the mower we have practised various techniques and I believe the finish is now on a par with a self-propelled mower… in fact, when we had a visit from our agronomist he said the finish couldn’t be faulted and the club members have given us many compliments too. Well, you can’t ask for more than that!”

Back in the year 2000 the city of Coventry passed its entire stock of social housing – 17,500 homes in all – to the Whitefriars Housing Association, one of a number of associations operating in the West Midlands, Herefordshire and Worcestershire which are now part of the W M Housing Group.

As well as upkeep of the housing stock, an essential part of maintaining an attractive and well-managed environment is care of the grass areas, open spaces and verges –1.2 million square metres of them in Coventry’s case. Until recently this task was in the hands of contractors, but now Whitefriars has started its own subsidiary, GreenWorks, to maintain the green areas.

Ken Lindsay, supervisor at GreenWorks, has two assistants and 25 operatives to ensure that the rolling progamme of work is completed to a high standard. “When we took over from the contractors we had nothing,” Ken explains, “so the first job was to acquire the right equipment. We knew from past experience that Ferris and Wright produce tough, reliable machines so we asked a number of local suppliers to tender. After meeting the teams we placed the order with T H WHITE’s Redditch branch and I’m so glad we did… The support and back-up they have given us – particularly our rep Lee Miles – as we got the new operation up and running, has been outstanding.”

GreenWorks has taken delivery of a Ferris FW35 flail mower, a large Ferris IS5100 rotary mower and five smaller IS2600 rotary mowers, together with five Wright Standers for confined and more difficult areas. Added to that were five Ifor Williams trailers for transporting the mowers to site.

“From a standing start, T H WHITE has helped us maintain an environment we are all proud of,” Ken added.

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