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Our round-up of the most interesting farm machinery related news events...
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Claydon expands dealer network
Sharmans Agricultural Limited has been appointed a dealer for Claydon Drills and will sell and service the range through branches in Lincolnshire, Leicestershire and Nottinghamshire. (28/10/19)
ADBA turns 10
The UK Anaerobic Digestion and Bioresources Association (ADBA) has celebrated its 10th anniversary. The organisation was set up to remove barriers to the expansion of the AD industry and develop standards. (25/10/19)
Dutch floating farm employs Giant loader
The world’s first floating farm has been introduced in the port of Rotterdam. Built with room for 40 cows, the farm, run by Albert Boersen, utilises a Giant D337T loader for carrying out work in the compact confines of the urban platform. Due to weight and width restrictions on the gangways, the 2.1t loader can go where other machines can't. The farm attempts to be self-sufficient, with floating solar panels, collected rainwater and food from the city, including beer broth, bran, potato scraps and grass from sports fields and golf courses. The milk is sold in the city and manure sold to sports fields to allotments. (22/10/19)
New compact loaders
Tobrocco-Giant has launched four new loaders: the G2200 HD and G2200 HD Plus can lift 1.4t to 2.8m and have a 26hp engine and four-wheel drive. The G2500 HD can lift 2.05t to 2.96m. (18/10/19)
Zero grazers in demand
Demand for zero grazing equipment is spiralling in 2019 as UK dairy farmers seek an edge to compete in a challenging milk market. Forage machinery specialist James Seaton of JVS Machinery says: “Farmers choosing to maximise yield through zero grazing have benefited from excellent growing conditions in 2019, a sharp contrast to the drought of 2018. We supply Belair zero grazers and this year we have seen a sharp rise in enquiries from farmers looking to change the way their herds are fed”. French manufacturer Belair partnered with JVS Machinery in 2018 to distribute its range of cutting and feeding equipment in the UK. (17/10/19)
New CTF header of Case IH Axial Flow combines
Just one of many updates for 2020, Case IH has introduced a new 8.5m combine header designed for controlled traffic farming. The new Varicut header with cater for CTF based on an 8m system, with a working width of 8.53m (28ft). The header also features a new crop lifter. From 2020 all combines leaving the factory will meet Stage V emissions regulations for Europe. The 140 Series combine range will change to the 150 Series to reflect the updated engines. The 7150model will gain extra power, going from a rated boost power of 402hp to 413hp, and a peak power of 453hp compared to its current power of 442hp. Axial-Flow combines will also get a new LED light package for 2020, including row finder lights for harvesting at night. (15/10/19)
National Tractor Road Run 2020
Following on from the success of corresponding event in April, which raised a staggering £52,000 for charity, the next National Tractor Road Run will take place on Easter weekend at Llanilid Farm, Pencoed, Wales. (15/10/19)
Europe’s first 9900i goes to Northern Ireland
The first John Deere 9900i self-propelled forage harvester in Europe has been sold to contractor Lagan Brothers of Moneymore in County Londonderry. The family firm sourced the machine from Johnstone Gilpin & Co of Lisburn. The 9900i is the biggest of the new 9000 Series self propelled foragers launched by John Deere last year. (13/10/19)
Latest Claydon dealer announced
Collings Brothers of Abbotsley is the latest dealer to be appointed by Claydon Drills of Suffolk. The dealer will offer sales and service via two branches to cover the Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Northanmptonshire area. (12/10/19)
Most successful Irish Ploughing Championships of all time!
As the dust finally settles from this year’s Irish National Ploughing Championships, the total attendance figure for the 88th Championships came to a record breaking 297,000 visitors over the three days, making this the most successful championships to date. Congratulations to the winners Eamonn Tracey from Carlow in the overall Conventional class, while Wexford man John Whelan won the Reversible Ploughing competition. Both men will represent Ireland at the World Ploughing contest in Russia next year. Watch this space for news on the destination of next year’s event. (11/10/19)
Rural crime soars
The cost of rural crime hit £50m in 2018 as thieves targeted livestock and machinery. This is an increase of 12 per cent on the previous year and the highest cost in seven years. Kent was worst affected. (11/10/19)
Ineos to build new 4X4 named Grenadier
Jim Ratcliffe, founder of chemicals and energy giant INEOS, has turned his expertise to the automotive sector as the visionary behind Projekt Grenadier, an uncompromising off-roader that is positioned to replace the Defender as the working tool for farmers, foresters, explorers and aid workers. Prototype vehicles are already under test and the plan is to build the Grenadier in a brand new manufacturing facility in Bridgend, South Wales. this will create 200 jobs initially, and up to 500 in the long term. Production in planned to start in 2021. (10/10/19)
Slurry mixer puts safety first
German manufacturer Reck has developed a slurry mixer that can be inserted through slats as small as 17mm in livestock housing, reducing the danger of mixing the slurry below. It makes pumping easier and reduces the need for farm workers to risk attending potentially dangerous blockages. The Porco model is designed for pigsties while the Torro is for cowsheds. Both are light, portable and can be operated by one person. By removing the need for large access points the slatted floor mixer keeps workers and livestock away from the slurry when it is being mixed. (08/10/19)
Lemken extends after-sales support
Customers and dealers of Lemken kit can now access an updated after-sales package, including an off-line spare parts catalogue. The Leonis, LemkenDoc and update stick is available worldwide. (07/10/19)
Exciting job opportunity as a demonstrator instructor in Spain
Caterpillar our looking to recruit a demonstrator instructor to join its team at the Malaga Demonstration & Learning Center, Spain. Closing date for applications is October 26th. To find out more, why not see what the job entails by visiting Caterpillar’s careers website www.caterpillar.com/en/careers/ and use the following job code 19000833. (04/10/19).
Lord Bamford officially opens new £50 million JCB Germany HQ
JCB Chairman Lord Bamford officially opened a new headquarters for one of its most important European businesses in an investment worth around £50 million. JCB Germany, founded in 1965 is now operating from a brand new 12 acre facility in Cologne. The new HQ includes offices for 75 employees and a training centre for use by customers and JCB Germany’s network of dealers which employ a further 2,000 people. The new HQ includes a showroom for JCB’s latest machines will also host 3,000 delegates a year for sales and technical training as well as holding operator training courses in a specially constructed demonstration area for construction and agricultural dealers. (03/10/19)
New John Deere self-propelled sprayers
John Deere has launched its next generation of self-propelled sprayers, manufactured at the company’s Horst factory in The Netherlands. With the new R4140i 4000-litre capacity and R4150i 5000-litre capacity machines, engineers have further increased performance, precision, safety and operator comfort. The focus of these latest developments has been on improving sprayer output while ensuring that the highest possible application quality is maintained and also delivering an improved operator environment. The premium design cab offers a new generation operator interface with fully integrated technology, such as the John Deere universal 4640 display mounted on a new armrest. (30/09/19)
Kramp is growing
When it is completed in 2020, you won’t be able to miss the agricultural component supplier Kramp UK’s new warehouse, which is currently being constructed just off the A1 at Biggleswade, Bedfordshire and will be three times the size of the existing facility. The business has seen significant growth in the spare parts and accessories market in recent years. (27/09/19)
National road run raises record sum
More than 300 classic and vintage tractors took to the roads for the National Vintage Tractor Road Run and raised a staggering £52,000 for the Yorkshire Air Ambulance. The run was led throughout the day by National Road Run co-founder Ashley Godsall aboard his Field Marshall. (25/09/19)
Information on stolen tractor required
A Ford 8210 Generation III was stolen from a farm in the Spetisbury area of Dorset, near Blandford Forum in the early hours of 20th July. The tractor can be identified by its later 7.5-litre engine from a Ford Series 40 tractor, brown Grammer seat and rear wheels that are shod with 600mm-wide Michelin tyres. Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.co.uk via e-mail at 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55190111832. (22/09/19)
Tractor crashes into electricity pole causing power cut in Leicestershire
The Leicester Mercury reported yesterday that a tractor working in a field near Shepshed, north west Leicestershire had hit a pole carrying low voltage overhead lines, it was not an electricity pylon. Disruption caused a road to be partially blocked as a safety precaution and the loss of power to 74 homes and local businesses. Western Power expects repairs to be completed by today. (19/09/19)
Lemken and Sulky partnership
Lemken and Sulky have announced a partnership. Lemken will offer Sulky fertiliser spreaders in its own blue livery and comprises three series with five models which Lemken retail partners will distribute. (18/09/19)
Friskney to close
J. T. Friskney Ltd of Horncastle is closing its doors at the end of September. This follows the closure of the Boston branch in August 2018. Once one of the country’s largest and most successful suppliers of County tractors, and more recently New Holland and Deutz, the announcement was made by owner Eric Young in a letter to customers; having run the dealership for 65 years, Eric has taken the decision to retire. (17/09/19)
JCB Sponsorship for British athletics champion
Ben Williams, of Newcastle, Staffordshire, became British Triple Jump Champion last month with a life-time best jump of 17.27 metres – further than the reach of a fully extended boom on a 540-170 Loadall. The stunning achievement has earned him a place in the Great Britain team for the World Championships in Doha later this month. JCB has offered Ben sponsorship for the next year as he prepares for his ultimate goal – the summer games in 2020 in Tokyo. (13/09/19)
Irish National Ploughing Championships
With literally days to go, don’t miss the 88th National Ploughing Championships to be held between 17th and 19th September. This year the event will be staged at Ballintrane, Fenagh, Co. Carlow, with over 1,700 exhibitors and 300 competitors booked for the ploughing match. If you aren’t taking part in the match, then there is plenty more machinery to be viewed. (11/09/19)
Obituary - Roger Thomas
Roger Thomas, known to many in the agricultural machinery industry for his work as press officer for firstly County and then Valmet/Valtra in the UK, has died. Roger was the public relations manager for County Commercial Cars between 1974 and 1983, and was then employed in a similar role by its successor, County Tractors, until tractor production ceased in 1990. He started his own public relations business in 1992, taking on clients such as Valmet, Chillton, Nokian Tyres and Fieldens. He continued to work with Valmet and then Valtra, handling all its UK press enquiries, until his recent retirement. He was also a valued contributor of articles on past County machines to FMJ's sister title Classic Tractor. (11/09/19)
Calling livestock farmers and contractors
The triennial Grassland & Muck show organised by the Royal Agricultural Society of England will be held at Ragley Hall, Warwickshire on 20th and 21st May 2020. Visitors will have the opportunity to watch machinery in a working environment and compare machines from different manufacturers. (09/09/19)
Speeding tractors beware
Police in Dorset are reported to be cracking down on speeding tractors after reports of tractors speeding in the Sherborne area. Officers are targeting offenders who they say are endangering themselves and others. In addition to speeding it is said that tractors have also caused damage to roadside signs and bollards. As a result, agricultural vehicles are coming under the spotlight following complaints of speeding, distracted driving, careless and inconsiderate driving and drivers using mobile phones. mobile Police patrols will be working alongside Community Speed Watch volunteers and schemes. (06/09/19)
Case IH club to launch
A new club for fans of Case IH has been formed and will be officially launched on 9th November at the Newark Vintage Tractor & Heritage Show. The club will be the first to be formed that also incorporates the brands that Case IH has absorbed over the years. The brands covered include Case, International Harvester, David Brown, Steyr and Steiger. (03/09/19)
Farm Expo makes a date for 2020
The Kent County Agricultural Society have announced the return of Farm Expo for 4 March 2020 at the Kent Showground. After a successful first year, the Society’s newest event will showcase the latest machinery, supplies, and services for the agricultural industry. In 2019 the show had over 100 trade stands representing 130 national and international brands. (03/09/19)
Farm Safety must remain a priority
In the wake of two tragic farm accidents in July involving children, the Farm Safety Foundation used Farm Safety Week to urge the whole farming community to make a real change. Releasing its latest 2018/19 report, the Health & Safety Executive announced that 39 farmers, farm workers and members of the public lost their lives on farms in Great Britain. Despite increased awareness, farming still has the highest rate of fatal injury of all the main industry sectors. Farm Safety Week may be over but organisers are imploring farmers to look after there physical and mental wellbeing and the number of life-changing and life-ending accidents on our farms. (27/08/19)
New receiving hopper from AVR
AVR has developed its new Falcon 1800 receiving hopper for medium-sized farms. It has a 4m-long bunker and 1.85m-wide roller set. Ten pre-production units will be built this year. (24/08/19)
Electric JCB mini in full production
JCB has made manufacturing history by going into full production with the first fully electric mini digger – with more than 50 machines already delivered to customers from as far away as Europe and North America. The machine is a staggering five times quieter than its diesel counterpart and can be fully charged in under two hours. (21/08/19)
Kent County show dates for 2020
The annual Kent County show will be held between 10th to 12th July 2020 to showcase the region's farming, countryside and rural life. A selection of contemporary and vintage farm machinery will be on sale together with agricultural dealers. (19/08/19)
Scottish Strautmann dealer appointed
Opico Ltd has appointed RC Dalgliesh to its Strautmann dealer network. Based in Lockerbie, the family run agricultural engineer business will cover south-east Scotland. (15/08/19)
Trimmers on show
Econ Engineering, which has been manufacturing gritting and salt spreading equipment near Ripon since 1980, is celebrating 50 years since it began making flail mowers at Otley in 1959. In addition to hosting a recent 50th anniversary open day at its Ripon factory, the company also put on a display of immaculately-restored Econ hedge cutters mounted on classic tractors at the recent Tractor Fest at Newby Hall. Highlights included a Hedgemaster 3E mounted on a Ford 7810 Silver Jubilee and a Hedgemaster 2 attached to a David Brown 1490. (12/08/19)
Farming and forestry in unison
With many farmers interested to know where the future is taking them as regards future subsidies, diversification may be one route for them to consider. For instance, integrating farming and forestry may offer an opportunity to maximise productivity. In this respect, this year’s Confor Woodland Show is embracing the farming sector. Held between 5th and 6th September at the Longleat Estate in Wiltshire, there are demos and static displays of the latest forestry machinery and experts advising on how planting trees may help benefit farming. (08/08/19)
Classic Roadless and County event
Entries have been flooding in from all over the UK, Ireland and even as far as Canada and New Zealand for the Blue Force Roadless 100 and County 90 Working Weekend in Warwickshire to be held between 21st and 22nd September at Lilbourne, near Rugby. The 300-acre site is close to the M1 and A14 and it has ample grass and hard standing for parking. With coach loads of spectators from Holland and Ireland planning to attend, as well as enthusiasts from around the UK, this event is shaping up to be the biggest gathering of Roadless and County fans since 2012. (07/08/19)
Scams warning
Fraudsters continue to be very active as regards agricultural equipment on internet sales site eBay, with scam listings appearing for tractors, combines, balers and ATVs. John Deere tractors appear to be the most common target for fake listings. Anyone looking to buy from eBay needs to be extra wary of sellers with zero feedback, but note that scammers are now trying to gain credibility by boosting their feedback scores by buying low value items from eBay sellers that provide automatic, instant, positive feedback. The best advice when buying on eBay is to step away if the seller gives excuses why you can’t see a tractor or other piece of machinery before purchase, and only exchange messages and make payment through the eBay website. (02/08/19)
JCB invest in Latin America
JCB has been producing machines in Sao Paulo, Brazil since 2001, and in 2012 a brand new $100m factory was opened. JCB has now announced a further $25m investment in Sao Paulo to allow it to launch new products to customers in Brazil and neighbouring South American markets. (01/08/19)
Hamblys take on Horsch
Horsch will be partnering with Hamblys dealer network to provide its range of cultivators, drills and sprayers to customers in Cornwall and Devon, with five branches across the south west. (30/07/19)
JCB tools line up on the grid
A new range of cordless power tools has been launched by JCB Tools. They use lithium ion batteries and are compatible with all models and are the official tool of the SportPesa Racing Point F1 team. (29/07/19)
Deutz is wrapped
The current fashion for body-wrapping tractors to get them noticed, which is especially important if you are a contractor, shows no sign of waning – quite the opposite in fact. The latest tractor to get its bonnet covered in an eye-catching wrap is a Deutz-Fahr Agrotron 6185 TTV owned by eter Holliday, an agricultural contractor from Silloth on the west coast of Cumbria. Before he took delivery of his new tractor from newly-appointed Deutz-Fahr dealer DW Toppin, peter had its bonnet covered in a multi-coloured wrap. Within two hours of being collected from the dealership the distinctive Deutz-Fahr was out drilling spring barley. (26/07/19)
Pottinger to build new factory
The green light has been given to a new Pottinger assembly plant in Austria. Construction of the new factory will start next year and will assemble balers and rakes once it opens. (23/07/19)
20 years of four-rotor Claas rakes
It was 20 years ago that Claas introduced the world’s first four-rotor rake, the Liner 3000. At a time when forage harvesters’ power output was increasing rapidly, the Liner 3000 and its working width of up to 12.5 metres provided operators with a massive increase in capacity compared to two-rotor rakes, as well as the ability to increase efficiency from their silaging teams. The design concept is still in use today on the Liner 3600 and 4000, which eliminate swathing bottlenecks and allow the capacity of the forage harvesting convoy to be fully utilised.
Welsh New Holland dealer appointed
David Evans Agricultural Ltd has become a dealer for New Holland, covering the area around Bridgend in south Wales. The dealer will support the full NH range. (18/07/19)
McCormick tractors on sale in Essex
Adcock Agri Ltd will now offer the full McCormick tractor range in Essex. Tim Adcock has already established a reputation for excellent customer support in servicing and repairing tractors. (15/07/19)
Milestone is celebrated with special edition
When it comes to celebrations, south-west Scotland Claas dealership Gordons knows how to do things in style. To celebrate the fact that Claas has produced 150,000 tractors since taking over Renault’s tractor division in 2003, the dealer has put its own stylish twist on Claas’ 150,000 Special Edition tractor. (13/07/19)
SDF New Scottish dealer
Deutz-Fahr has strengthened its sales and service capability in Scotland with the appointment of Nairn-based Hodge Plant Ltd. The full-line dealer covers sales, service and parts. (11/07/19)
Saddling up
What is believed to be the only example of a Claas Xerion 4000 Saddle Trac slurry spreader in the UK has been put to work with Philip Trim Contractors of Dorset. Claas successfully launched the Xerion 4000 three years ago but the slurry spreading application for the machine was only launched this year. Claas Western supplied the Saddle Trac to Philip Trim in mid-March, fitted with 16,000-litre Kaweco slurry tank. For exclusive access see FMJ July issue. (10/07/19)
Farm Sprayer Operator of the year announced
Simon Bailey from Norman Court Contracting, near Salisbury is the 2019 Farm Sprayer Operator of the Year. Simon came out on top of a strong field in this year’s close fought competition. Simon received his award at the recent Cereals event. (08/07/19)
UK Plant industry highlights success
The Construction Equipment Association, organisers of the bi-annual Plantworx show has launched a major report on the UK muck-shifting industry. The highlights are that the UK is the largest producer of construction equipment in Europe and fifth largest in the world. It is estimated that UK-built machines account for a quarter of all the kit sold across the EU. (05/07/19)
Kent County show dates
The annual Kent County Show will be held at Detling on 5th to 7th July showcasing the region’s farming, countryside and rural life. The patron, HRH The Duke of Kent, will be attending the Show on the 5th. A selection of contemporary and vintage farm machinery will be on show together with agricultural dealers. (01/07/19)
Buoyant classic prices
Case-IH and IH tractors have been making good prices at recent auctions following the sale of a 1996 Case-IH 1455XL with 7,693-hours on the clock, this N-registration sold for £53,000 at the Cowle Collection sale in Devon. A 1988 IH 956XL with 7060 hours made £12,000 in the same sale. Further, a US-built IH 706 made a whopping £14,000 t Dingwall Marts in the Scottish Highlands. (01/07/19)
Cummins brings Performance to Stage V
The latest Cummins ultra-clean Stage V engines are to be called the Performance Series. Available from 3.8- to 15-litre displacement and 100hp to 675h, the engines will be used in agriculture, construction and material handling operations. (28/06/19)
JCB Loader celebration
JCB is celebrating 50 years of being in the wheeled loader business. The Rocester-based company entered the market following the acquisition of Chaseside Engineering. Production was transferred to Rocester in 1969. The first designed JCB wheeled loaders appeared in 1971. In 1991, the company opened a new factory at Cheadle dedicated to wheeled loader production. (26/016/19)
Hamblys take on Horsch
Horsch will be partnering with Hamblys dealer network to provide its range of cultivators, drills and sprayers to customers in Cornwall and Devon, with five branches across the south west. (24/06/19)
JCB Fastrac storms to new British speed record
JCB has set a new British speed record for tractors with its high-speed Fastrac tractor. The tractor notched up 103.6mph at Elvington Airfield, near York. It smashed the previous 87.27mph record set in March 2018 by Top Gear’s Track-Tor. Based on the Staffordshire maker’s Fastrac farm tractor, the record-breaking tractor is powered by JCB’s 7.2 litre, 6-cylinder DieselMax engine produced at its factory in Derbyshire. Capable of delivering 1,000hp and 2,500Nm of torque, the Fastrac had been put on a diet and had its aerodynamics enhanced with the help of Williams Advanced Engineering. (21/06/19)
SIMA switched dates
The biannual French machinery show held in Paris is undergoing a shake-up. Aside from a rebranding, the biggest and most significant change is the new dates, which will now see the show hosted from 8 to 12 November in 2020, rather than its usual date, which should have been February 2020. (14/06/19)
Don’t miss us at Plantworx!
If you have an interest in the very latest construction machinery, don’t delay there is just one day left of the bi-annual Plantworx show in Peterborough, the UKs construction machinery show. Visit our stand AD18 in the Pavilion, we are easy to find next to the showground main entrance. You can meet the team, plus get an early copy of the July issue of Farm machinery Journal. You can also enter our competition to win a 3-month loan of the latest Case-IH Maxxum. (12/06/19)
Don’t miss the machinery in action at Plantworx with the many live demonstration plots
McCormick extends coverage
Agricultural machinery dealership McKeever Tractors, based in Portglenone, County Antrim, has been appointed sales, parts and service support dealer for McCormick Tractors in the county. (09/06/19)
John Deere forager makes its debut
The new 8600 self-propelled forage harvester makes its debut at the Royal Highland Show on 20 to the 23 June at the Ingliston showground. The John Deere 8600 tops the company’s range of standard crop channel models from the 8100 to 8500. (07/06/19)
Unusual job opportunity
If you are a machinery mechanic and fancy a change of scene, why not apply for a job with a difference? The British Antarctic Survey are looking for a mobile plant mechanic to work in Antarctica for approximately 18 months. But you will need to be quick as the closing date for applications will be 20 June 2019 11.59pm. (06/06/19)
Large number of lots
A date for the diary if you are looking for second hand agricultural and construction machinery will be 21 and 22 June at Dromore, Northern Ireland with up to a thousand lots on sale through Euro Auctions, includes a number of John Deere, New Holland, Case tractors, and backhoe loaders. (03/06/19)
Farm Safety tip of the Month – Health and safety
Farmers must be prepared to dedicate time and resource to health and safety standards to avoid failing inspections. Richard Wade, risk specialist for Farmers and Mercantile Insurance Brokers, urged farmers to take risk seriously or face severe penalties, following the launch of the latest farm inspections by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). Inspectors will look at key risk areas, including machinery, falls from height and livestock, as well as child safety. Farming companies with a turnover of up to £2m that are found to have breached the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 can now expect to pay fines of up to £450,000. Individuals can be handed unlimited fines or face a two-year prison sentence. (29/05/19)
Visit us at Plantworx
Don’t forget to make a date in the diary for Plantworx, the leading construction machinery show in Peterborough on 11th to 13th June. Come and visit our stand in the pavilion AD18 where you will be welcome to meet the team that publish Earthmovers, the leading construction machinery magazine and of course Farm Machinery Journal, Forestry Machinery, Classic Tractor and Heritage Tractor.
John Deere dealers merge
Ripon Farm Services is expanding into Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire following the acquisition of neighbouring dealer RBM Agricultural Ltd. All branches and staff of the two dealerships will be retained and will trade under the Ripon Farm services name. (24.05.19)
Valtra Police car livery
A Valtra T1744EA has been decked out in Police car livery and will be visiting more than 30 agricultural shows around Scotland this year to raise awareness of rural crime. The Valtra was supplied by dealership Hamilton Ross Group and is designed to attract attention at the shows and invite discussion between the police and influential farming organisations such as the NFU and Young Farmers Clubs. (20.05.19)
Unusual 80s crawler at auction
A Same Explorer 80C believed to be 84th off the production line is to be sold at Clarke & Simpson’s collective sale on 25th May. This low-hour crawler of a type rarely seen in the UK dates from the mid-80s and has just 1,740 hours on the clock with just two owners since the original sale from dealer Alan Dale. Eight of these were sold by the dealer but this is the only one he is aware of now. (17.05.19)
Samson Agro launches new injector
A new type of injector for easy and efficient placing of slurry in row crops has been produced by Danish manufacturer, Samson Agro. Named Samson Strip-Till, it can be used to precisely apply slurry in varying ground conditions such as ploughed soil and stubble field. (14/05/2019)
Alvan Blanch wins award
British manufacturer of post-harvest processing machinery and industrial drying systems has received the Queen’s Award for Enterprise 2019 in the International Trade – Outstanding Achievement’ category. (13/05/19)
New flails for Bobcat excavators
Bobcat has just launched a new range of self-levelling flail mower attachments for its mini-excavators. The SL FM 60 has a cutting width of 600mm and a hydraulic flow of16-38 litres per minutes, while the SL FM 85 flail mower has a cutting width of 850mm and a hydraulic flow of 36-70 litres per minute. The flails are said to be ideal tools for cutting and shredding vegetation, branches, thick grass, bushes and small trees. They can also work on hard-to-reach areas such as around pylons and over fences. (10/05/19
Kverneland extends southern coverage
Customers in Cornwall and south Devon can now access Kverneland implements through new dealer Vincent Tractors & Plant. Two branches at Fraddon, Cornwall and Plympton, Devon will provide sales and service support. (07/05/19)
Pass for AGCO apprentices
Fourteen land-based service engineering apprentices at Moreton Morrell College are celebrating being the first in the UK to pass tough new national educational standards. All of them are apprenticed at AGCO dealerships across the UK. (05/05/19)
Merger of Dutch manufacturers
Two Dutch agricultural machinery manufacturers, Schuitemaker producing fodder machinery, feeding and manure spreaders and Veenhuis, manufacturer of manure applicators are planning to combine forces. (04/05/19)
Farm Safety tip of the Month – Tyre safety
Cornwall-based Wills Brothers has become one of the first farms in the UK to fit a patented new safety system designed to protect from the risk of tyre under-inflation. Tom Wills specified the Michelin Tyre Pressure Management system (TPMS) Light Fleet – pioneered by UK technology firm Wheely-Safe. The farm fitted the TPMS to a Richard Western SF17H trailer, used for everything from grass, maize and whole crop. Intensive use means tyres are subject to heavy wear, scrubbing and are prone to picking up nail or screw damage. As well as monitoring from under- and over-inflation, the system also sends an alert if the air temperature inside the tyre reaches 100 degrees Celsius – often the sign of an impending tyre blowout. (30/04/2019)
Land Rover Defender latest
Last night Jaguar Land Rover confirmed that the next generation of the iconic British built Defender will be built in Slovakia at the Nitra production facility. Production having ceased at the Solihull factory in 2016. The firm insisted that Brexit had not played a role in the decision. (30/04/19)
Beeswax Dyson Farming to host 2019 ploughing championships
One of the UKs largest farming companies, Beeswax Dyson Farming owned by private inventor Sir James Dyson, will host this year’s British National Ploughing Championships. The event will take place on 12th and 13th October at Nocton, near Lincoln. Organised by the Society of Ploughmen, around 250 ploughmen and women are expected to compete to win various championship titles. (26/04/19)
Homeward bound
A 1997 early manufactured Case IH Fastrac is currently on its way home to the factory in Fargo, North Dakota. The machine, one of the first to be imported into Australia, worked on a 20,000 acre farm in Western Australia. The tractor was refurbished to mark the 20th anniversary of the Fastrac in 2016 and recently the decision was taken with Case IH Australia to return it to the USA to be displayed at its birthplace. The picture shown shows in chained down to the deck of the freighter transporting it across the Pacific Ocean. (24/04/2019)
JCB Anglo-Indian investments
JCB is to invest £65m in its sixth factory in India, a global parts production facility on a 44-acre site, which will be located near the west coast port city of Surat. This follows the recent start to build a new £50m cab factory in Staffordshire. (23/04/2019)
Top Claas dealer
Claas Eastern based at Sleaford and with seven branches covering Lincolnshire, Nottinghamshire and Yorkshire has been presented with a Platinum Dealer Excellence Award at a Claas dealer council meeting at its tractor factory at Le Mans in France. (20/04/2019)
Grab and spikes for JCB
A range of attachments for JCB loaders now includes bale spikes and grabs, certified for use with JCB machines. Bale spikes are available with one or two tines or sheath rollers. (18/04/2019)
Avant roadshow
Compact multi-purpose loader manufacturer, Avant Tecno has scheduled a demo day on 31st May for its products through Farol at Rycote Lane Farm, Milton Common, Thams. (15/04/2019)
Good stat to the year for Cambridge sales
A combination of strong demand from buyers and sellers keen to capitalise on firm prices have boosted sales at auctioneer Cheffins’ recent monthly Cambridge Machinery Sales, the largest monthly auctions of used tractors and agricultural equipment in the world. Value of machinery sold was up by 11% in the first three months of 2019 compared with the same period last year. (14/04/2019)
New tractor brand launched
Chinese company YTO thinks its new Mancel tractors will buck the current trend in the current shrinking machinery market with its brand-new tractors. Assembled at the former Argo Tractor transmissions factory in France it will introduce a 110 to 145hp F5 range using a 4.5-litre engine. (12/04/2019)
Combine ‘graveyard’ in the press
The Sun newspaper has revealed stunning drone footage of well-known parts and breaking business, John Manners in Northumberland. Over 350 machines are shown in an aerial view. Parts are dispatched all over the world from the 700-acre farm site. The firm is featured on an episode of ‘Scrap Kings' shown on Quest TV. (10/04/2019)
Farmers warned of drone dangers
Farmers not aware of laws or regulations when flying drones could face fines running into thousands of pounds warns insurer NFU Mutual, which has now produced a guide to aid understanding of the laws and insurance requirements. (08/04/2019)
Vredestein tyres in partnership with John Deere
Apollo Vredestein has announced a partnership with John Deere’s tractor factor in Mannheim, Germany. From March 2019 buyers of new John Deere 6R and 6M series tractors can choose Vredestein Traxion tyres as original fitment. (03/04/2019)
Haynes celebrates with special edition New Holland
Kent-based New Holland dealer, Haynes has celebrated the 100th anniversary of the first tractor the business sold with a special edition New Holland T7.245 showing battleship grey panels, wings and cab roof, plus red wheels to reflect the livery of the Fordson F, in sold in 1919. (03/04/2019)
New Kubotas go Versatile
Kubota is to expand its tractor power upwards thanks to an original equipment manufacturer agreement with Versatile to develop and produce a range of new, mid-range models at its factory in Winnipeg, Canada. (29/03/2019)
Vaderstad ups the Tempo
With a 3000-litre capacity fertiliser hopper and a choice of eight-to 12-row configurations, Vaderstad has developed the Tempo L8 for high-speed precision planting of a range of crops and widths. (26/03/2019)
New Kubota dealer
Howard & Sons Exports Limited has recently been appointed Kubota main dealer for tractors and utility vehicles across Wiltshire and East Somerset from its base in Marston near Devizes. (24/03/2019)
State-of-the-art Valtra arrives at Hadlow
Hadlow College has taken delivery of a Valtra N17D tractor for its agriculture and agricultural engineering courses, supplied by R.W. Crawford of Ashford it will be used by Level 3 and University Centre students and has already been nick named the ‘batmobile’ due to its black body and wheels. (22/03/2019)
New Trade event for Scottish forestry industry
A new forestry industry trade event will take place on 22 & 23 August at Biggar in South Lanarkshire. Harvesting demonstrations will provide an opportunity to experience forestry machinery at work and it is estimated that more than 10,000 cubic metres will be harvested during the event. It is expected that over 100 exhibitors will attend. (20/03/2019)
Farm Safety tip of the Month – Stop and think safe
Farm accidents are preventable, and the Stop and Think SAFE campaign developed by the Farm Safety Partnership is aiming to tackle the four main causes of fatalities – Slurry, Animals, Falls and Equipment. For slurry, think about the dangerous gases and ventilation, while care needs to be taken when handling animals, including well-maintained gates and fences. Any job at height should be done with the correct, safe equipment, including ladders, being aware of fragile roofs. All equipment should be safe and ready for use, including PTO guards, brakes, steering, windows and mirrors. (18/03/2019)
PV Dobson opens new Lancashire depot
A new agricultural machinery depot has been added to PV Dobson’s family run dealer network. The new depot in Chorley compliments its Levens and Skipton dealerships and distributes Manitou telehandlers, Horsch, Teagle and industrial machines. (15/03/2019)
Large collection to go under the hammer
One of the UK’s largest collections of blue farm machinery amassed over a 30-year period will go under the hammer on 4th May at Great Punchardon Farm, Winkleigh, Devon. The impressive Cowle Collection will be dispersed by Cheffins and includes classic and modern classic Ford, New Holland, County and Doe tractors. For an in depth preview, don’t miss our sister title Classic Tractor on sale from 29th March. (15/03/2019)
JCB goes racing
A partnership with SportPesa Racing Point FI team marks JCB’s latest venture into Formula 1 after a stint with Williams Racing. The new team, formerly known as Force India, will feature JCB branding on its cars, driven by Lance Stroll and Sergio Perez. The first Formula One race of the season takes place in Melbourne this weekend and JCB Loadall telescopic handlers equipped with special jib attachments will also be trackside. (13/03/2019)
Massey Ferguson adds compacts
Two new tractors have been added to Massey Ferguson’s line-up of compact tractors. The GC1700 machines have 22.5hp and 24hp engines. (11/03/2019)
Growth for Lemken
The past year saw a turnover of 380 million euros for Lemken, resulting in growth of six per cent. Export sales remained at 77 per cent. The company admits that political and economic conditions made for a challenging 2018, despite the positive figures. (07/03/2019)
JCB Welcomes the next generation
JCB Welcomes the next generation A record-breaking group of JCB apprentices were awarded their apprenticeship certificates as well as getting coveted contracts of employment with the famous British machinery manufacturer. The group of 79 is the biggest in the history of JCB to graduate as Level 2 and 3 apprentices in a single year, and marks 55 years since the first intake of nine completed their training by founder Joseph Cyril Bamford. (05/03/2019)
Swiss go electric
A fully electric tractor has been launched by Rigitrac. The SKE50 uses a lithium battery for up to five hours work, with the equivalent of 68hp. (03/03/2019)
Huge fund raiser
Although last summer’s weather conditions resulted in very little silage being harvested at the Coolmoyne & Moyglass Vintage Club’s Silage Extravaganza 2018 at Moyglass, Co. Tipperary, the event still proved very successful. The club reckons that, with 250 classic and vintage entries, it was probably Ireland’s biggest vintage event of the year, as well as setting new records for the most County tractors gathered together in one place, 99 and the most Massey Ferguson 65s too. A huge cheque was raised for 15,000 euros to the South Tipperary Hospice. (03/03/2019)
Tractors for hire
Car giant Sixt has added a number of Claas tractors to its hire fleet in Germany. The tractors are available from five depots for short term hire. (27/02/2019)
McConnel robots give glimpse of future
New functions and a futuristic redesign are features of three new robotic mowers unveiled by McConnel. The remote controlled mowers have undergone a ground-up design and now boast more power, using engines developed in conjunction with Hertz specifically designed for working on slopes of up to 55 degrees. The centre of gravity has been lowered by using a revised chassis design, while the bodywork has been re-engineered to offer better protection in the event of a rollover and from debris. Also, gullwing panels offer wider openings for easier maintenance accesses. For the first time a GPS auto-steer package is available, developed with guidance experts Trimble. (25/02/2019)
Farm Safety tip of the Month - Get lifting equipment checked
While most farmers will regularly maintain and check machinery, independent engineering inspections are advised, such as those by insurance brokers Farmers & Mercantile. The PUWER (Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998) and LOLER (Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998) inspections are a requirement for lifting equipment. James Baimbridge, machinery inspection engineer with Farmers & Mercantile, explains, “Inspections are designed not only to identify issues with the potential to become dangerous, but also to provide each machine with a comprehensive service history, which can benefit when selling on machinery, and also provide evidence of a machine’s general condition if involved in an accident.” (22/02/2019)
Gold coated Massey Ferguson
Massey Ferguson dealership Peacock & Binnington has unveiled a 7726S in gold livery as a special commemorative edition to celebrate the dealers 125th anniversary. The company is planning to give a further 125 tractors a slightly different commemorative livery, and customers can have a limited edition livery on any model from the current MF range. (18/02/2019)
New Same Customer Centre and Museum Opens
Same Deutz-Fahr has opened a new customer centre including a museum at its headquarters at Treviglio in northern Italy. The museum is totally dedicated to the Same brand and houses many vintage machines as well as the Same historical archive consisting of a huge number of documents and technical drawings at the customer centre. The museum and archives are open to the public as well as tours of the factory. (18/02/2019)
Latest UK Tractor registrations by brand
The total number of tractors registered for road use in 2017 was 13,768, including both agricultural tractors (over 50hp) and compact tractors (50hp and below). Data is released after a one year delay. Top selling John Deere increased its UK market share from 27.9% to 28.4% in 2017. AGCO’s Massey Ferguson and Valtra brands performed well, increasing their UK registrations and market shares. (15/02/2019)
Giant on Debut
The new Tobroco-Giant G4500 will get its UK debut at next month’s Farm Expo 2019 in Kent, displayed by dealer Kirkland UK. The G4500 weighs just 4200kg but has a lift capacity of 2800kg. It uses a Kubota engine to give 75hp and drive a four-wheel drive, hydrostatic transmission, while over 150 attachments make it a versatile option for many farms. Those wanting more lift capacity can opt for the X-tra model, which can lift 3100kg, while extra reach can be achieved by choosing the Tele model, which gives a 4.3m lift height. (12/02/2019)
Dealer Puts on Big Show
John Deere dealer Johnston Gilpin & Co ltd based in Lisburn, Northern Ireland has celebrated 50 years in business with a two-day exhibition with highlights including not just modern John Deere’s but also some past favourites including a 100-yeear old Waterloo Boy and a1951 Model B. Tractors of all shapes and sizes were a dominant part of the huge John Deere display alongside self-propelled harvesters, combines and a special new air-less radial tyre. (12/02.2019)
Hawke Plant Hire tractors to be sold at auction
Having recently gone into administration, the full contents of Hawke Plant Hire’s tractor business will be sold at auction on 14th and 15th March at Prees Green, Shropshire by Euro Auctions. Stock consists in excess of 125 mostly John Deere tractors. Other stock includes JCB Fastrac’s, slurry tankers and trailers. (08/02/2019)
Adapted Avant gets farmer back to work
A farmer has taken delivery of a modified Avant 760i loader, enabling him to continue working despite being paralysed from the chest down. Working with Adaptacar, Avant fitted Dale Palmer’s loader with an automatic seat and harness to aid access from the wheelchair, hand controls instead of foot pedals, and a door that opens and closes with a button. (08/09/2018)
JCB Cab in Command
JCB has revealed its highly anticipated new Command Plus cab for its Loadall AgriSuper and AgriPro models. It has been 15 years since the Loadall range received a new cab design and JCB was keen to emphasise that the new cab has been deliberately styles to incorporate what is described as the classic JCB appearance. (07/02/2019)
Plant Stays Open
Our recent news brief announcing that the former Case-IH and McCormick factory at St. Dizier in Northern France was to close has seen a further development, YTO of China has revealed plans to assemble a new line of tractors at the plant. The company is in the process of developing three new ranges of tractors from 50hp to 145hp and these will be introduced under a new marque at the SIMA show prior to going on sale in 2020. (07/02/2019)
Electric Tractor Powered by Cable
John Deere has developed an electric cable powered tractor developing up to 400hp. The GridCON is claimed to be the first vehicle to be fully electric, permanently cable powered and capable of fully autonomous operation in the field, and is part of John Deere’s ongoing research and development work to identify opportunities for the electrification of agricultural machinery. (05/02/2019)
2018 Tractor Sales Up
Despite a slow December, the overall total for tractor sales in 2018 was up one per cent on 2017 with 12,102 units sold, the highest in four years. (05/02/2019)
All in a good cause
Melton Mowbray Young Farmers are holding a Charity Tractor Run in aid of the Kidney Care Appeal. This will be kindly hosted at Buckminster Gliders Club, Salty Airfield, Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire on 16th March. Tractors to arrive 10am, depart 11am. Entry fee per tractor £12 to include refreshments and £3 per passenger. Tractors of all ages welcome. For details lease contact meltonmowbrayyfc@outlook.com. (04/02/2019)
Tractors recovered!
The tractors reported as stolen as an earlier news item on here have all been successfully recovered. Staffordshire Police would like to thank all members of the public who were responsible for being on the lookout for the tractors and for the information that they provided. The Police investigation as to apprehension of the thieves is currently live and ongoing. (29/01/2019)
Massey Ferguson shakes up show plans
Massey Ferguson has announced a new strategy to promote its products. The new approach will see them move away from attending traditional machinery shows and instead will host its own bespoke events and targeted activities. It believes a more personalised approach will help it better connect with customers, and allow a more hands-on-experience. Any future show displays will be small. A European Massey Ferguson Experience Tour will visit the UK in 2019 giving customers a chance to operate machines. (29/01/2019)
New Agri Show for 2019
There’s a new date for the diary with Farm Expo at the Kent Showground, Detling, Kent. The event being held on 6th March will include machinery trade stands, seminars and networking opportunities for the agricultural industry. The show is free to attend. (25/01/2019)
Theft of several tractors
Assistance is required to trace the whereabouts of several tractors from a farm premises in Burton-on-Trent between Friday 18th and Sunday 20th January. Includes 2002 Massey Ferguson 8925 telehandler, chassis no. 360011434 reg plate KN52 UAK and 2002, Massey Ferguson 230 with just 5 hours on the clock!!! Other machines include JD 4650 (Rowcrop), MF 135 & 342, Porsche Super export 3 cyl diesel and Fordson Dexta. There is a cash reward payable for information leading to the conviction of the culprits. Contact James 07900 924020 or Jerry 07879 418055. Emma Francis (Lichfield CID) 07773 530416 (23/01/2019)
Boris Johnson visits JCB World Headquarters
Boris Johnson MP today visited JCB’s World Headquarters at Rocester, Staffordshire to deliver a keynote speech. He toured the Story of JCB exhibition as well as the backhoe loader production line, meeting employees in the process. He was also given an insight into JCB’s LiveLink telematics technology during a tour of JCB’s offices before making his speech on the backhoe loader production line. (18/01/2019)
Farm Safety Tip of the Month
New figures from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) have confirmed farming to be the riskiest industry to work in. In just 12 months 33 people were killed in agriculture, a 10 per cent increase on the previous year and five times more risky than second-ranked construction. Lycetts Risk Management Services is urging farmers to properly assess and mitigate risks to avoid preventable deaths. “By implementing health and safety polices, carrying out robust risk assessments and undertaking health and safety training, farmers can ensure good practice is an integral part of their business, creating a safer environment for them, their workers, and the wider community,” says Richard Wade. (16/01/2019)
Construction continues on JCB Cab factory
Construction work on the new £50 million JCB Cab Systems factory is forging ahead as it targets a summer opening. The investment in the new facility is one of the biggest in JCB’s history, and will result in one of the most advanced cab production lines in the world, utilising robotic welding and automated painting among its computer-controlled manufacturing systems. The new site will accommodate 400 employees, who will relocate from Rugeley, to complement the new automated systems. It’s hoped the combination will result in improved efficiencies that support JCB’s growth plans. (15/01/2019)
Samson Group acquires Pichon
Samson Group as acquired the slurry tanker, implement and muck spreader manufacturer Pichon which went into receivership last year. (14/01/2019)
More AGCO for Crawford
Dealer RW Crawford is extending its area for Fendt and Valtra. Expanding out of Essex, Kent and East Sussex, the dealer will also cover West Sussex, east Hampshire and south Surrey, areas previously covered by AJ Seale Ltd. (11/01/2019)
TAFE joins Iseki
Tractors and Farm Equipment (TAFE) has signed an agreement with Japanese manufacturer Iseki to build compact tractors in India. Iseki will provide technology and compact tractors from 35hp to 54hp to be sold with TAFE branding. (10/01/2019)
Big launch ahead?
Industry insiders are speculating on a significant launch for John Deere in 2019. Although an updated model range is expected, it’s not yet known whether the R Series, which was launched in 2012, will be replaced. A new look for the tractors is expected. (09/01/2019)
Pichon in receivership
French machinery manufacturer Pichon has been placed in receivership for a period of six months. The future of the company is now uncertain, however potential buyers have been cited for the company, including Belgian machinery manufacturer Joskin. (09/01/2019)
Factory closure
The former International Harvester tractor plant a St. Dizier in Northern France is to close after a decision by Chinese tractor manufacturer YTO to discontinue transmission production at the site from March 2019. Transmission production will be transferred to China, says YTO. (08/01/2019)
Limited run in Fiat livery
New Holland is celebrating a century of Fiat heritage with a 90 Series-inspired concept tractor and a limited edition run of 100 tractors spanning six different models in its current range. It is 100 years since the first Fiat 702 tractor was introduced and 13 years since the last pure Fiat machines went down the line in Italy. New Holland unveiled its Centenario limited edition range of tractors at the EIMA show in Bologna, Italy at the end of last year, as well as its Fiat Centenario concept tractor. (08/01/2019)
