Groundskeeping Journal - Issue 35 2026

CAMPEY TURF CARE SYSTEMS

Celebrates 40 Years of Excellence

BERNHARD

ACADEMY

brings together Iceland’s leading greenskeepers for national training

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In this issue

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Welcome to Groundskeeping Journal, the UK’s leading bi-monthly publication providing latest product innovations, industry news and opinions from key professionals within the industry. With focuses on Aeration, Irrigation & Drainage; Greenskeeping; Latest News; Machinery; Pitch & Line Marking; Specialist Mowers; Sports Ground Equipment; Sports Pitches; Top Dressing; Sprayers & Spraying and Turf Management.

6 Campey Turf Care Systems Celebrates 40 Years of Excellence

8 AriensCo consolidates processes in new platform

10 Bernhard Academy brings together Iceland’s leading greenkeepers for landmark national training initiative

14 SIS Pitches New Rapid Hybrid Turf Solutions

20 Naturavolt Why Electric Weeding is the New MVP for Pitch Maintenance

26 Husqvarna adds First Cut functionality to autonomous mowing range for golf courses

34 Rouden PipeTek Only the best Groundwork, Drainage and Pipework products

38 ISEKI

TG 6495 Versatility Drives YearRound Growth at Brora Golf Club

50 Consolidate Turf Watford FC Targets Turf Recovery and Disease Resistance with Nutrition Programme

54 Techneat Engineering Timely application gives the best lawn service results

Premier John Deere dealership selling agricultural, construction, professional turf, and garden machinery from 7 depots

Industry leaders in technology and aftersales service

Established as a family business in 1976, Farol today has a team of over 350 staff whilst still remaining 100% family owned.

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Enhancing Quality Sports

ello and welcome to Groundskeeping Journal. Our publication has been created to showcase the very latest industry news and product information from the Groundskeeping sector.

HIn each edition we carry in depth articles from some of the industry leaders, the articles cover many aspects of Groundskeeping with some offering tips and advice on Sports Pitches, Turf Management, Greens Keeping and much, much more. Whether you are looking for tips and advice on creating the perfect green or looking to

taking the time to read our publication, we hope you enjoy the read and if you would like to keep up to date with all things GKJ then make sure you check out our subscribe page.

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Campey Turf Care Systems Celebrates 40 Years of Excellence

Honouring a Legacy of Innovation, Leadership, and Global Impact in Sports Turf Management

Campey Turf Care Systems proudly marks its 40th anniversary in 2026, celebrating four decades of pioneering advancements and dedicated service in the sports turf industry. Founded in 1986 by Richard Campey, the company, based near Macclesfield in Cheshire, has grown from a local family business into a global force, renowned for its commitment to quality, innovation, and best practice in turf care solutions.

To commemorate its 40th anniversary the Company has created a dedicated website: www.campey40.com and will be holding various celebratory events throughout 2026, including a special 40th Anniversary Open Day on Thursday, July 9, 2026. So please save the date and come and join in the fun and festivities – more information will be provided in the New Year.

Richard Campey’s nearly 50-year

career in the sports turf sector stands as a testament to his passion, expertise, and unwavering drive for excellence. Recognized for his integrity and forwardthinking approach, Richard quickly earned a reputation as a trusted authority in sports ground renovation and maintenance. His outstanding leadership culminated in the prestigious IOG Lifetime Achievement Award in 2011, honouring his remarkable contributions and influence on raising industry standards.

Under Richard’s guidance, Campey Turf Care Systems has consistently championed innovation, launching groundbreaking products that have redefined turf maintenance worldwide. The introduction of the Koro Field TopMaker (FTM) revolutionised surface renovation and set a new benchmark for best practice sports ground management. Equally transformative, the Air2G2 soil aeration system has improved root health and playing conditions

on golf courses across the globe. The development of the Campey Universe rotor has further advanced turf care, providing professionals with powerful tools for efficient and sustainable maintenance.

Campey Turf Care Systems has expanded its reach to serve clients worldwide, earning international accolades such as the Manchester Chamber of Commerce Global Star Award. The company’s equipment is trusted by premier football clubs, prestigious golf courses, and sports venues across continents, reflecting a legacy built on reliability and the pursuit of excellence.

The company remains dedicated to driving innovation, supporting the industry, and upholding the values instilled by Richard Campey. The future promises continued growth, new advancements, and an enduring impact on the world of sports turf management.

www.campeyturfcare.com

Campey Turf Care Systems Celebrates 40 Years of Turf Care Excellence at Anniversary Open Day

ampey Turf Care Systems is proud to celebrate 40 years of innovation in 2026, marking the milestone with a special Open Day on Thursday 9th July.

CSince its inception in 1986, Campey has evolved from a small family business into an internationally respected leading provider of professional turf care equipment and expertise, trusted by sports venues, contractors, and grounds professionals in the UK and around the world.

Established by Richard Campey, the company’s foundation is built on offering practical, inventive solutions tailored to the real needs of turf professionals. This commitment to innovation remains at the core of Campey’s approach as it continues to design equipment that meets the

Join Us For A Special Open Day

evolving demands of modern sports surfaces.

Reflecting on the company’s journey, Richard commented, “When we launched in 1986, I started off in the northwest of England carrying out contracting work, over time customers started asking me if they could buy the machines. The initial machine that I brought to market was the Greenline Coremaster, Colin Gregory sold 2 to me but I only wanted 1 and that’s how we started off in sales.

Four decades on, our drive for innovation and partnership with the industry is as strong as ever. The Open Day will be a fantastic occasion to share this milestone with everyone who has contributed along the way, and our way of saying thank you with the people who have

Celebrate 40 years of turf care innovation

You’re invited to our 40th Anniversary Open Day on Thursday 9 July from 10:00am - 6:00pm at Campey Turf Care Systems, The Crossroads, Buxton Road, Bosley, Macclesfield, SK11 0PS

Join us for this special day as we celebrate four decades of turf care innovation. This is a great opportunity to see the very latest in turf care technology, watch live machinery demonstrations, and connect with fellow industry professionals. Refreshments are available all day, a BBQ from midday, and ice creams from 2pm. We look forward to celebrating this special day with you.

Register at www.campey40.com or call us on +44 (0)1260 224568

helped make it possible.”

The 40th Anniversary Open Day will highlight both the company’s heritage and its continued commitment to developing machinery and practices that support the future of sports turf management.

Visitors can register to attend the event online at: www.campey40.com

SAVE THE DATE

Event Details: Thursday, 9th July 2026 Location: Campey Bosley, The Crossroads, Buxton Road, Bosley, Macclesfield, Cheshire, SK11 0PS, UK

To register your attendance and find out more, visit our website dedicated to the 40th Anniversary www.campey40.com

AriensCo consolidates processes in new platform

ealers often work with several parallel systems. Different logins, scattered data and a lack of integration make it difficult to access key information and waste time in day-to-day operations. AriensCo has responded to this by developing the ExPort dealer platform. It brings together previously separate systems and provides centralised access to all key AriensCo processes and information.

Previously, sales partners used different platforms, for example for spare parts orders, marketing materials and training. This created additional work and hindered the consistent use of digital services. With ExPort, AriensCo now consolidates all systems into a single platform.

Via a central login, all dealers can access account details, orders, invoices, equipment information, as well as warranty and service processes. The platform combines applications such as the ordering and information system, media portal and learning platform into a unified environment. Key tasks such as maintaining contact details, registering machines, and submitting warranty claims and service requests can be handled directly and across all systems.

Centralised and clearly structured working environment

Dealers gain clearly structured access to all relevant information and processes. Queries are reduced, workflows are accelerated, and the day-to-day workload is noticeably eased. At the same time, this frees up capacity for targeted support

with more complex issues.

With ExPort, AriensCo is clearly positioning itself as a customerfocused company. At its heart is a modern service process that simplifies workflows and makes collaboration with sales partners more efficient. At the same time, the platform lays the foundation for further digital development within the dealer network.

“The biggest hurdle in a dealer’s day-to-day work is not a lack of information, but access to it. Too many systems, too many logins. With ExPort, we bring everything together and create a central, clearly structured working environment for our sales partners,” says Georg-Otto Fuchs, Senior Vice President R&D, Product Management & Marketing – EMEAA, summarising the benefits of the new dealer platform.

Versatility is the STrac 720’s superpower

Is finding the right machine for the task, then having enough secure storage space, hindering your grounds maintenance solutions?  Step forward, a pedestrian grounds maintenance operating system that offers EIGHT processes.

Many operators are discovering the STrac 720 is a highly versatile tool. This series of specialised machines addresses a wide range of turf maintenance needs, including aeration, verticutting, overseeding, and sod cutting. The STrac 720 features easy controls on its powerful guiding handle and a set of interchangeable heads, all with a working width of 65 cm. A very short turning radius means the rear wheels can adopt a variety of operating positions, while the tools connect effortlessly, cassette style.

For teams looking to work more efficiently, the STrac offers a sustainable and cost-effective alternative to buying multiple task-specific machines. One power unit means one engine to maintain, helping reduce fleet complexity while supporting carbon reduction goals. It also avoids the cost and storage demands that often come with housing several separate machines. Storage can be a major issue for many depots and maintenance compounds, so the compact footprint of the STrac and its cassette heads is a major advantage where space is limited.

Ease of operation is another key benefit. Changing attachments takes only minutes, while working depth adjustments are straightforward and familiar, much like setting the height of cut on a mower unit. Clear depth guides on each attachment help operators make accurate changes quickly. In use, the STrac combines steady transport speed with strong working performance. It moves comfortably between areas, saving time and effort across larger sites, while remaining stable and consistent on slopes and uneven ground.

Choose either a 12.5 hp Honda engine to power the STrac 720 hydraulic hitch and guiding handle. (Choose the 8.5 hp for the STrac 700.) Simply connect a dedicated ST task cassette head to the STrac’s hydraulic hitch, engage the mechanical PTO drive, and you are ready to work. Cassettes, with a working width of 65 cm, are available for overseeding, aerating, scarifying, coring, fraise mowing, sand filling, sod cutting and disc or dimple seeding. The STrac is light, fast and versatile, helping deliver consistent standards of presentation across a site. Challenging areas such as edges, tight spaces, slopes and locations where a tractor is too large or heavy are suddenly within reach. Flexible rear wheel positions provide multiple options to manoeuvre close to edges and around obstacles.

The Maredo ST Collection

• STrac 700

• STrac 720

• The ST120 SodCutter uses a counterbalanced blade that slices smoothly, ensuring a clean cut

• The ST160 CleanCutSandFiller creates a healthy top layer without leaving material on the surface

• The ST170 FlexFrase-Mower targets problem areas by stripping off the top turf layer to 20 mm, leaving a smooth surface for overseeding

• The ST200 Flex-Verticutter removes unwanted organic material in a clean way with minimal surface disruption

• The ST210 Vibe-Spike Aerator decompacts the surface profile to 60 mm using vibrating solid tines

• The ST230 HighSpeed-Corer offers solid and hollow tine options, improving aeration and compacted soil

• The ST418 VibeDisc-Seeder head has unique technology to plant the seed in slits and protect it from all kinds of outside influences

• The ST424 VibeSpike-Seeder creates a pattern of dimples where the seeds are placed

Bernhard Academy brings together Iceland’s leading greenskeepers for landmark national training initiative

uffolk, England –09 April 2026 – A delegation of 13 of Icelandic greenkeepers and turf technicians came together in Reykjavik for a training initiative delivered by the Bernhard Academy, marking a continued investment into professional development for the country’s turf care sector.

The three-day programme was hosted at GKG Golf Club and led by the club’s greenkeeping team, Course Manager, Guðmundur Árni Gunnarsson and Head

Greenkeeper, Kate Stillwell, who recognised a gap in access to specialist technical education across Iceland.

By bringing together representatives from multiple facilities, the programme ensured that knowledge gained would extend well beyond a single venue, strengthening standards across Iceland’s turf care community.

Delivered by Barry Drennan, Programme Leader for Equipment and Technical Management at the Bernhard

Academy, the initiative focused on bridging the gap between day-to-day course maintenance and advanced engineering expertise. Over three days, delegates undertook a mix of technical learning and handson application, working directly with machinery used in Iceland’s unique operating conditions and logistical challenges.

The programme covered key aspects of modern turf management, from precision spraying and machinery diagnostics to advanced

cutting unit set-up and longterm fleet maintenance strategies, equipping attendees with practical skills designed to improve both performance and efficiency back at their home clubs.

Stillwell said the initiative was about creating access where it has traditionally been limited, and following progress TETO has already made over the years: “This training has been a great opportunity for Icelandic greenkeepers and mechanics. Our goal was to bring everyone together to provide access and hands-on guidance that is usually hard to come by. The feedback from the 13 delegates has been very positive. It’s clear that by coordinating this as a group with

SIGI (The Icelandic Greenkeeping association) and supplier, Toro Iceland, this was a worthwhile investment in our greenkeepers and turf technicians. This training was about them.”

For the Bernhard Academy, the programme reflects on its wider mission to make highquality technical education accessible to turf professionals around the world.

Drennan added: “It was a privilege to deliver this program in Reykjavik. The initiative Kate showed in coordinating greenkeepers from all over Iceland is what made this so successful. Access to specialised training can be limited there, so being able to bring this education directly to a motivated group of

Precision application for sports turf treatments

The Pro-ESpray from Techneat Engineering brings a new level of accuracy and professionalism to grounds management applications.

The capability of the battery-powered Pro-ESpray can significantly save time, improve accuracy and optimise results of all spray applications for fertiliser, plant protection and turf quality.

The Pro-ESpray’s productivity, ease of use and accuracy is far superior to that of a traditional knapsack sprayer. Whisper quiet in operation around sports facilities, there’s no emissions during use or risk of fuel spillage.

The stepless motor drive enables the application rate to be adjusted on the move with a single dial, to maintain precise and consistent coverage. Individual finger-tip boom section control allows operators to avoid wastage of over-spraying and enables accurate application in intricate areas.

For more information on Techneat amenity sprayers visit the website at www.techneat.co.uk/ground-care/ or call 01353 862044.

professionals is exactly what the Bernhard Academy is designed to do.”

The initiative highlights the growing importance of collaboration in raising industry standards, with Iceland’s turf care professionals demonstrating how a collaborative approach to training can deliver benefits on a national scale.

Bernhard Academy continues to support industry leaders like GKG, helping to drive progress through accessible, expert-led education worldwide.

To learn more about the Bernhard Academy and its educational offering, visit: www.bernhardacademy.co.uk

One Biological Bundle for Pest Control, Turf Health and Recovery

Turf managers are under increasing pressure to deliver highquality playing surfaces, effective pest control and rapid recovery, while reducing reliance on synthetic chemistry and managing tighter budgets. Yet pest control, soil health and turf recovery are still often managed through separate inputs, adding cost and complexity to programmes.

Bionema’s integrated turf bundle combines four biological products into a single, practical solution for golf courses, sports turf and amenity surfaces. NemaGen® targets soildwelling pests, including leatherjackets and chafer grubs, using entomopathogenic nematodes — a residue-free option that fits within modern IPM programmes. Soil-Jet® is a biodegradable soil penetrant that improves water and nematode movement through the soil profile, resulting in more reliable delivery.

RootVita® SP supports root development, microbial activity and nutrient uptake, helping turf recover faster from wear and environmental stress. Groprim®+ promotes greater vigour and more resilient surfaces under pressure.

Together, the four products address pest pressure, soil health and turf recovery in one joined-up biological programme — simpler to manage, more cost-effective, and better for longterm surface performance.

Contact Bionema Group: info@bionema.com | +44 (0) 1792 606916 | www.bionema.com

Redexim UK welcomes Jeremy Vincent

edexim UK has strengthened its team with the appointment of Jeremy Vincent, a highly respected figure within the groundscare industry.

With more than three decades of experience, Jeremy brings a wealth of knowledge spanning engineering, sales and customer support. His career began as an apprentice at a John Deere dealership in 1988, before progressing through a variety of roles which ultimately led him into the groundscare sector.

Jeremy spent 16 years working with an importer, where he developed his sales expertise representing a range of machinery including Trilo products, before going on to work directly with Trilo for a decade across the UK, Ireland and beyond.

Now joining Redexim UK, Jeremy will take on responsibility for sales across the southern region, supporting dealers, attending demonstrations, and working

closely with customers to deliver the company’s extensive range of natural and synthetic turf maintenance equipment.

Speaking about his new role, Jeremy said:

“Ideally, I wanted to stay with a manufacturer, and Redexim really stood out. They are market leaders and their product range speaks for itself. I’ve worked with the equipment before and was always impressed.”

He added: “I’m the sort of person who enjoys being hands-on with machinery, and Redexim’s portfolio really appeals to me. There’s a strong reputation behind the brand and that makes a big difference when you’re out speaking to customers.”

Well known and widely respected across the industry, Jeremy’s appointment has been warmly received by colleagues and contacts alike.

“I’ve had so many kind messages since the news got out,” he said. “It does make you realise what a great industry this is. Everyone is supportive, and it’s genuinely a nice sector to be part of.”

Looking ahead, Jeremy is excited about the future with Redexim UK and the opportunities within his new territory.

“Redexim is clearly a company that’s moving forward and evolving. I’m really looking forward to being part of that journey and helping to grow the business in my area,” he said.

With a strong track record, deep industry knowledge, and a passion for the sector, Jeremy’s appointment marks another positive step for Redexim UK as it continues to invest in its people and strengthen its presence across the UK.

For more information, visit https://www.redexim.com/uk/

Early start for ZLine bunker project at River Club

Boise’s historic River Club

is being rebuilt by architect Brian Curley, and its new bunkers will be lined using the ZLine system.

OISE, IDAHO, APRIL 21, 2026 – Boise’s River Club was originally known as the Plantation Country Club and founded in 1917 – it is the oldest golf course in southern Idaho. Like a lot of older clubs, it is rather hemmed in, by the eponymous Boise River on one side, and by State Street on the other.

I ts site, at 120 acres, was already rather tight for a golf course in this day and age, so when the course changed hands in 2018, and its new owner proposed selling off some of the frontage on State Street for development to fund a project to improve the club’s facilities, it was obvious that a very creative design solution would be needed for the golf course.

The club has already upgraded its swimming pool offering, and built pickleball and bocce ball courts. Architect Brian Curley was engaged to reconstruct the golf course, and his solution involved shortening the course, so the previous middle tee yardage would be the new back tee length, and par would fall from 69/70 to 68, but the holes themselves would be redesigned to make them more interesting.

Curley’s project is now in construction – in fact, owing to a mild, largely snow-free winter in Boise, it is ahead of schedule. And the course’s new bunkers will be lined using the ZLine system, which course superintendent Nate Cahill says was chosen principally for its ability to resist contamination of bunker sand.

“Being right alongside the Boise River, we have river rock in our soil, and it finds its way into our bunkers,” he explains. “The selection of ZLine was mostly about preventing that, though its ability to move water away quickly when we get rain events was also an issue. Also, some other bunker liners have a fairly narrow installation window in terms of weather conditions – we can install ZLine in any weather. ZLine came out and trained the team in how to fit the product in about a day and a half, and about threequarters of our new bunkers have already been lined. It is a very straightforward product to install, which makes our life a lot easier – there is plenty going on, so not having to worry about the bunker liner is a good thing!”

New Rapid Hybrid Turf Solutions from SIS Pitches Set to Combat Struggling Pitches and Demanding Stadium Schedules

ith fixture schedules intensifying and sporting venues hosting more events than ever, SIS Pitches has launched two new hybrid pitch systems designed to help grounds teams and stadium operators tackle mid-season deterioration and tight installation windows without compromising performance.

SIS Pitches’ GAMEREADY Hybrid range offers two new hybrid grass pitch solutions, both of which significantly reduce the typical lead time associated with new pitch installations. Thanks to the new range, grounds teams benefit from a solution that is faster and more costeffective to install than traditional hybrid carpet systems, requiring less forward planning.

The first of the two innovative systems is GAMEREADY Pre-stitched turf, a premium-grade sports turf, which is grown and stitched at an offsite turf farm before being harvested and installed within just two days as a reinforced, high-quality matchready hybrid playing surface.

Ideal for grounds teams and stadium operators faced with a struggling pitch mid-season or a short installation window due to a busy events calendar, the turf is grown either by SIS Pitches or one of its trusted turf farm providers before being stitched at a 45mm depth using the state-of-the-art machinery from SISGrass. In as little as eight weeks post-stitching, the turf is harvested with the hybrid fibres in place, before being transported to the stadium. The pre-stitched hybrid turf is then installed by specialist teams within a two-day window, providing immediate game-ready reinforcement.

In independent testing by the University of Tennessee, GAMEREADY Hybrid was found to provide the most natural feel as well as greater consistency, safety, stability and traction than both conventional hybrids and natural grass playing surfaces. These benefits were successfully demonstrated at the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 in the USA, highlighting the system’s proven performance at elite standard.

The pre-stitched surface assures stadium operators of reduced upfront investment by eliminating the need to commit to a conventional hybrid carpet around a year in advance. SIS Pitches’ pioneering system allows turf from any farm to be selected and stitched a minimum of eight weeks before being harvested.

The second GAMEREADY Hybrid system is SIS Pitches’ Rapidstitch Turf, which sees premium natural turf installed and stitched simultaneously. The result gives grounds staff the opportunity to plan for an installation window of as little as three days – a timeframe never previously thought possible for a machine-stitched hybrid surface.

GAMEREADY Hybrid Rapid-stitch Turf redefines expectations for time-pressed grounds teams and stadium operators, enabling ultrafast, high-quality stitched hybrid pitch installations during the tightest windows. Offering a cost-effective alternative to traditional hybrid carpets, it combines rapid installation with deeper hybrid stitching—at

least 85mm—for a more durable, maintenance-friendly playing surface with an extended lifespan. Crucially, the Rapid-stitch system allows grounds staff to source turf from their preferred farm at short notice while still benefiting from gold-standard stitched hybrid reinforcement. This approach eliminates the high costs, limited availability, and long preparation times typically associated with traditional hybrid carpets kept in reserve.

Each Rapid-stitch Turf pitch is installed using the manufacturer’s next-generation SISGrass Hybrid machines, which feature the world’s fastest hybrid stitching technology. Their unmatched speed reduces full-pitch installation times by up to 78%, while a design that’s up to 70% lighter than competing models minimises turf stress and surface compaction. With fully customisable stitching depths ranging from 45mm to 180mm, these machines were instrumental in developing the GAMEREADY Hybrid range.

The stronger reinforcement created between the fibre and the rootzone extends the lifespan of the Rapidstitch Turf to a minimum of two years – a standout advantage for clubs struggling throughout winter. Like the Pre-stitched equivalent, GAMEREADY Hybrid Rapid-stitch Turf has also been tested by the University of Tennessee and proven to provide a faster, more responsive and more stable surface than traditional hybrid carpets.

SIS Pitches’ Rapid-stitch Turf set a new record in elite stadium turf delivery at the FIFA Club World Cup 2025, where a ready-to-play Rapid-stitch surface was successfully installed at the Miami Dolphins’ Hard Rock Stadium in just 56 hours.

Ivo Lamot, CEO at SIS Pitches said: “The launch of our GAMEREADY Hybrid rapid turf solutions marks the start of another exciting chapter for grounds teams and stadium operators worldwide, by setting the bar even higher for what can be achieved with hybrid pitch

installations. Our Pre-stitched and Rapid-stitch hybrid pitch systems are a direct response to the increasingly tight turnaround windows stadium operators are faced with when accommodating busy fixture schedules and demanding events calendars.

“The launch of our next-generation hybrid stitching machines in 2025 paved the way for us to completely revolutionise how new hybrid surfaces are supplied and installed, and we’re proud to be able to make such a significant breakthrough in capability while simultaneously enhancing performance. We’re hugely committed to powering more play and this new range will enable grounds staff and operators at some of the most iconic, multi-use stadiums in the world to achieve just that.”

For more information on SIS Pitches’ GAMEREADY Hybrid range, visit www.sispitches.com/ surface/rapid-hybrid-turf

Putting the Lights On for Brighton

inchester-based Wildwood Machinery has partnered with Dutch giant Stogger Turf Care to install and maintain a state-of-the-art grow-light system for Premier League football club Brighton & Hove Albion.

WGrow-lights are used to optimise germination, root development and shoot growth in grass pitches. Stogger Turf Care’s stateof-the-art LED light rigs represent the way forward for elite sports clubs in terms of quality, efficiency and sustainability.

Managing director of Wildwood Machinery, James Bastian, says:

“We’re delighted to be working with two major names in elite sport to install and maintain one of the biggest LED grow-light projects in the UK. A lot of Premiership and Championship football clubs, and

other elite sports clubs will be watching this development with interest, especially with HPS lights likely to be outlawed from 2027 due to their inefficiency.”

Stogger Turf Care LED lights vs competitors

The Stogger Turf Care grow-light system is acknowledged to be the leader in this sector. With the highest overall light levels in the market, 4-channel dynamic light spectrum, superior glass lens design, upgradeable LED engines, and advanced thermal management there are clear advantages in sustainability, efficiency and effectiveness.

“Wildwood Machinery worked closely with Stogger Turf Care on a lengthy pre-installation trial and due diligence,” says James Bastian. “We’ll now provide a

complete aftercare, backup and support service for the groundcare equipment, as per our exclusive UK partnership with Stogger Turf Care.”

“Brighton FC is widely regarded as one of the best-managed, most sustainable clubs in the Premier League, while Stogger Turf Care technology is the most efficient LED grow-lighting system available. We’ll be doing everything we can to support Brighton’s ambitions on the pitch and to help showcase Stogger’s outstanding technology in the UK.”

The installation at Brighton & Hove Albion FC includes: 9 × Booster Carbon 460 units; 2 × Booster 60 units; 4 × Booster Carbon Compact units and 4 x turf fans covering 4,300 square metres of surface area, which makes this one of

the three largest LED grow light projects in the UK.

Phil Fifield, Head of Sports Turf Stadia at Brighton FC, said: “We are committed to excellence in all of our operations, and of course the playing surface is a key part of that. We’re looking forward to seeing what we can achieve with Stogger Turf Care and Wildwood Machinery on our side.”

Florian Mans, International Sales Manager at Stogger Turf Care, said: “At Stogger Turf Care, we remain fully committed to working closely with end users across the industry to engineer and develop practical, innovative and forward-thinking solutions. We thank Brighton & Hove Albion and their outstanding grounds team for the trust placed in Stogger Turf Care. Together, we are committed to making this an unprecedented success.”

Performance Starts Below the Surface

When discussions turn to synthetic sports pitch performance, attention often focuses on the surface layer maintenance regimes. Yet experienced grounds professionals know that true performance is determined lower down. The infill material used plays a decisive role in drainage, stability, player safety and longterm durability.

Premium silica sports sand remains the foundation of highperforming synthetic pitches for good reason. Correctly graded, naturally rounded silica sand provides the stability required to support fibres while maintaining the permeability essential for yearround play. Poorly graded or low silica alternatives may reduce initial costs, but they frequently lead to compaction, restricted drainage and increased maintenance intervention over time.

Grantex Specialist Aggregates supplies Premium Silica Sports

Sand engineered specifically for synthetic sports applications. Produced in the UK under controlled conditions, the sand is tightly graded between 0.3–1mm, delivering consistent performance across installations. With a satellite hydraulic conductivity rate exceeding 16,000mm per hour, it supports rapid drainage during prolonged wet conditions, which is an increasingly critical factor for facilities facing heavy usage and unpredictable weather.

Grain shape is equally important. Naturally rounded particles reduce abrasion within the system while improving fibre stability and player traction. The result is a surface that feels consistent underfoot, supports confident movement and helps reduce strain on joints and muscles, outcomes that matter as much to player welfare as they do to surface longevity.

Specification and compliance provide further assurance. Grantex Premium Silica Sports Sand is fully

compliant with the FIFA Quality Programme for Football Turf and World Rugby Turf Performance Specification and is tested in accordance with relevant EN standards. Manufactured under ISO 9001:2015 quality management systems, it offers the consistency and traceability required for modern sports facilities, schools and professional venues alike.

Ultimately, synthetic pitch performance is built from the ground up. Choosing a proven, specification-led silica sports sand ensures surfaces remain playable, safe and dependable over the long term. When the foundation is right, everything above it performs as it should.

A specification sheet is available from grantex@longrakespar.co.uk. To chat to us more on this and other product from the Grantex range call 01629 636210.

Premium Dried Sports Sand

The Perfect Choice for High-Performance Synthetic Pitches

Fully compliant with the FIFA Quality Programme for Football Turf and the World Rugby Turf Performance specification standards, it can be used as either a performance or stabilising infill.

Our Premium Sports Sand is produced at our state-of-the-art production facility in Rye, East Sussex.

The sand is naturally rounded and graded to ensure a size of 0.3-1mm guaranteeing improved permeability during wet conditions.

Grantex Premium Sports Sand is available in 1250kg bulk bags and 25kg poly bags.

Water filtration rate

16,000mm/h

Premium Sports Sand is tested in accordance with: EN 1097-3, EN 933-1, EN 14955 and EN 12616. This product is manufactured in accordance with ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management Systems.

Shock to the System: Why Electric Weeding is the New MVP for Pitch Maintenance

hile the debate between natural turf and synthetic surfaces continues to dominate the clubhouse, a quieter revolution is happening underfoot. Ground staff at Premiership clubs and local leisure centres alike are facing the same ultimatum: keep the pitch pristine but do it without the chemicals. In an era where “sustainability” isn’t just a buzzword but a regulatory requirement, the eWeeding roller is emerging as a gamechanger for sports ground equipment.

The Efficiency Gap: 120 Hours vs. 60 Minutes

In the world of elite sports maintenance, time is the most expensive commodity. Traditional methods of weed control— specifically hand-pulling—are not only physically gruelling but economically draining.

The most striking evidence of this shift comes from the home of English football, St. George’s Park. Tasked with maintaining worldclass standards across vast acreages,

their grounds team recently pitted manual labour against electrical innovation.

“The artificial turf at the ends of each pitch previously required 120 man-hours of intensive handpulling to clear unwanted growth on each pitch,” the team at St. George’s Park noted. “With the eWeeding roller, we were able to systemically treat that same area in just one hour.”

This isn’t just a marginal gain; it is a total transformation of labour

allocation. By reclaiming 119 hours of staff time, grounds managers can pivot their focus back to the fine details of pitch playability and line marking precision.

How It Works: The

“Systemic

Shock”

Unlike contact herbicides that require absorption through the leaves, or thermal methods that only “scorch” the surface, electric weeding utilizes the plant’s own biology against it.

• The Circuit: As the eWeeding roller is pushed across the pitch or court, electrodes on the underside make contact with any protruding vegetation.

• The Resistance: The plant’s natural internal resistance converts the electrical energy into instant heat.

• The Kill: This heat causes the plant’s cells to rupture immediately, from the leaf tip down to the deepest root tip.

Because the current travels through the root system, the kill is truly systemic. There is no “bounce back” from deep-rooted weeds,

ensuring the surface remains uniform and professional for longer intervals.

Versatility Beyond the Touchline What makes the eWeeding roller a vital addition to the equipment shed is its versatility. While it excels at clearing the “opportunistic” weeds that plague the edges of AstroTurf, its utility extends across the entire facility:

• Porous Macadam & Tennis Courts: Removes moss and weeds without the slip-hazard of wet chemical applications.

• Gravel Pathways & asphalt Car Parks: Maintains clean lines and professional aesthetics for visitors.

• Pitch Perimeters: Targets weeds growing through block paving or concrete surrounds where traditional machinery can’t reach.

Integration with Modern Line Markers

The beauty of the eWeeding roller lies in its compact, batterypowered design. Much like modern GPS-guided line markers, the

device is built for precision and ease of use. It allows ground staff to treat a facility in “real-time”—there is no need to cordon off a pitch for 24 hours while chemicals dry. The moment the roller passes over a weed, the surface is safe for players to slide, tackle, and compete.

The Bottom Line

As we move toward a “pesticidefree” future in sports turf management, the eWeeding roller offers a rare win-win. It provides the rapid results of a chemical treatment with the environmental footprint of a manual hoe.

For the modern groundsman, it isn’t just about killing weeds; it’s about maintaining a highperformance environment that is safe for the community and the planet. As the experience at St. George’s Park proves, electric weeding is no longer a Victorian curiosity—it is the future of the pitch.

www.naturavolt.com   info@naturavolt.com

Dialled In: Smarter Height Control Transforms Wide-Area Mowing

Making Everyday Adjustments More Efficient

In professional grounds maintenance, efficiency and consistency are everything. Whether maintaining sports pitches, public spaces or large estates, operators are constantly balancing productivity with presentation. One of the most routine - and often repeated -  parts of the job is adjusting height of cut. Trimax’s OptiAdjust system is designed to make that process faster, easier and more precise.

Traditionally, changing height of cut means stopping work, leaving the tractor and manually resetting the mower deck. It’s a task carried out multiple times a day as conditions change, adding time and interrupting workflow.

Adjust on the Move  Trimax’s OptiAdjust, available on the Pegasus S5, allows operators

to control cutting height directly from the tractor via the Trimax Connect app. Using a Bluetooth connection to a mobile device or tablet, height adjustments can be made quickly and accurately without leaving the seat.

The ability to adjust “on the fly” supports a more responsive approach to mowing. Operators can adapt to changing turf conditions and site requirements as they happen, maintaining consistent results across multiple locations in a single pass.

Case Study: MW Agri

For Buckinghamshire-based contractor MW Agri, one of the first UK businesses to invest in OptiAdjust through local dealer George Browns, the benefits have been immediate.

Covering around 250 acres each week - from polo grounds and sports pitches to parks and private estates - efficiency is critical.

Before OptiAdjust, managing director Malcolm Weaver and his team were manually adjusting cutting heights several times a day.

“We were sometimes changing the height three or four times a day,” he explains. “That meant stopping, getting out, often lying on wet grass - it all adds up.”

To stay productive, heights would often be set for the day, even if it meant skipping nearby sites that required a different finish and returning later.

1.5 Hours Saved Every Day

With OptiAdjust, that approach has changed completely.

“Now we can adjust heights on the move through the Connect app without stopping or leaving the tractor,” says Malcolm. “It’s a contractor’s dream. The time saving is amazing -  I’m saving around an hour and a half a day, which is effectively another job.”

As well as improving efficiency, the system enhances safety by reducing the need to repeatedly mount and dismount machinery.

Precision Without Compromise

The Connect app has proved straightforward to integrate into daily routines. MW Agri quickly adopted preset cutting heights, allowing operators to store and name settings for specific sites - making it easy to switch between requirements at the touch of a button.

At the same time, OptiAdjust offers full flexibility on the move. Operators can scroll through height settings in millimetres and make

fine adjustments instantly from the cab - ideal when arriving on site to find conditions have changed or grass growth is ahead of schedule.

This combination of preset efficiency and on-the-fly precision gives operators greater control over finish quality than traditional fixed-increment systems.

A Smarter Way to Work

OptiAdjust doesn’t replace operator expertise - it enhances it. By simplifying one of the most repetitive aspects of mowing, it allows professionals to focus on delivering consistent, highquality results.

For contractors like MW Agri, the benefits are clear: increased efficiency, reduced downtime, improved safety and greater control over the finished surface.

As mowing technology continues to evolve, systems like OptiAdjust reflect a wider shift towards smarter, more connected equipment -  helping operators work more efficiently without compromising on quality.

To learn more about Trimax OptiAdjust or arrange a demonstration, visit the Trimax website:

www.trimaxmowers.co.uk

South Staffordshire G.C. Invests to Prevent Wash-Out

aced with frequent heavy rainfall, and nearly 70 wash-out prone bunkers, South Staffordshire Golf Club has invested in the long term playability and maintenance of the course with a program of bunker improvements.

After thorough research, the team at South Staffs decided on a trial with industry leading erosion management specialists EcoBunker and its proprietary EcoTec™ bunker liner.

“Whenever we get heavy rainfall 50% of our bunkers get washed out and it takes us several days to get the course back in good condition,” said Mark Guy, Course Director at South Staffordshire Golf Club. “We needed a solution that drained well, held sand in place and reduced contamination. After a lot of research we settled on the EcoTec™ liner from EcoBunker and we’re delighted with the results.”

To accurately test the effectiveness of the EcoTec™ liner, the team installed three different options on the course. In one bunker they installed pipe drainage, hardcore and two layers of sand, in another simply hardcore and sand, and in the three bunkers surrounding the 18th green they installed pipe drainage and the EcoTec™ liner.

“The results have been quite clear. While drainage has improved in all cases, the EcoTec™ bunkers are now virtually maintenance free. They’re holding sand incredibly well, sand contamination has been eliminated and the amount of sand we are using has reduced dramatically,” continued Mark. “Drainage and wash-out were the main presenting issues, but in addition to performing brilliantly on those fronts, we are seeing many benefits including freeing up time to focus on other areas of the course.”

In addition to the final results of the trial, the team were impressed with the simple installation and the longterm cost savings from being able to take on future projects themselves.

“One of the deciding factors was that we could easily fit the liner ourselves,” concluded Mark. “Richard from EcoBunker came and trained the team on the first bunker and then we took over from there. It was such a simple process that the team picked up with ease. We’re now planning on upgrading the bunkers on the second and look forward to reaping the benefits for our maintenance team and keeping our members on course, whatever the weather.”

For more information on EcoBunker please visit www.ecobunker.co.uk

ICL Expands H2Pro TriSmart Range with Granule and Tablet Formats for Targeted Dry Patch Management

CL Turf & Landscape UK & Ireland has introduced H2Pro TriSmart Granules and H2Pro TriSmart Tablets, extending its TriSmart surfactant technology beyond liquid applications.

The new formulations provide turf managers and landscapers with additional options for managing localised dry patch and improving water distribution in turf surfaces.

Both products are based on ICL’s TriSmart triple-action surfactant technology, designed to help water spread more evenly, penetrate the soil profile and be retained for longer.

This supports more consistent moisture levels, slows the rate of dry-down and aids faster rewetting in affected areas.

H2Pro TriSmart Granules offer a new delivery method for surfactant technology through a patent-pending polyhalite minigranule carrier, developed by ICL’s research and development team at AmegA Sciences.

The compacted granule incorporates the surfactant within a polyhalitebased core, allowing for accurate and consistent application from a stable, free-flowing product.

In addition to delivering the surfactant, the polyhalite carrier provides background levels of potassium, calcium and magnesium, with the surfactant aiding their movement into the soil. The granules are designed to withstand handling

and spreading, while breaking down effectively once wetted to release the active ingredients.

Field trials conducted in the UK, Spain and Australia have demonstrated increased rootzone moisture content compared to untreated areas following drydown and rewetting cycles. These improvements were supported by observed gains in turf colour and overall surface quality.

H2Pro TriSmart Tablets introduce a hose-end application method, offering a practical solution for targeted treatment without the need for spray equipment. Designed to disperse during normal hand watering over a 20 to 30-minute period, the tablets enable efficient delivery of the surfactant to localised dry areas. This makes them particularly suitable for use on greens, surrounds, lawns and

landscape areas where precision application is required.

Aimee Davey, Marketing Communications Manager for ICL Turf & Landscape UK & Ireland said: “The addition of granule and tablet formats gives turf managers greater flexibility in how they apply TriSmart technology. These options allow for more targeted management of dry patch, particularly in areas where liquid applications may not be practical.”

H2Pro TriSmart Granules and Tablets can be integrated alongside existing TriSmart liquid programmes, enabling users to select the most appropriate application method for different conditions and site requirements. Both products are recommended for use from March to October on turf and landscape areas prone to moisture stress.

ICL continues to expand its range of turf management solutions to support efficient water use and consistent playing surfaces across the UK and Ireland.

Please contact ICL on 01473 237100 or visit www.icl-growingsolutions.com

Husqvarna adds First Cut functionality to autonomous mowing range for golf courses

usqvarna has expanded its autonomous mowing offer for golf courses with the launch of a new First Cut function for its CEORA and Automower 580L EPOS models, giving clubs a new way to maintain transition areas between fairway and rough using existing robotic systems.

The new functionality enables courses to create and manage first cut areas as part of their existing autonomous mowing setup, removing the need for additional dedicated machinery. Traditionally, maintaining a first cut has required investment in specialist equipment, adding further cost on top of increased time and

resource. The free software update can be incorporated into an existing robotic mowing programme and is designed to help golf courses improve presentation, playability and course definition while keeping day-to-day maintenance operations more efficient, without additional operational cost.

“

“First cut has been a regular request from golf course managers as clubs look to get more from autonomous mowing technology. This update gives courses the ability to improve the visual definition and playability of key areas whilst freeing up

and resources for other tasks”.

Andrew Lees, Global Segment Manager – Professional Robotics at Husqvarna.

T he feature allows users to define a first cut area within Husqvarna Fleet Services™, the company’s digital platform for managing connected equipment. By copying and expanding an existing fairway, the system automatically creates a transition zone, which can then be adjusted to account for features such as bunkers or changes in hole layout. Each first cut area can be set with its own cutting height and mowing schedule while remaining fully integrated within the wider mowing setup.

The functionality is compatible with all CEORA® and Automower® 580L EPOS® units. As a free software update, it requires no additional hardware, making it a straightforward addition for existing customers.

The launch comes as many courses prepare for the busiest part of the maintenance calendar, when turf growth accelerates and pressure increases to present courses in peak condition for the season ahead. By extending the role of autonomous mowing beyond fairways and rough, Husqvarna is continuing to develop its golf course offering in response to practical customer demand and the wider need for more efficient, scalable maintenance solutions.

To learn more about Husqvarna’s Golf Course solutions visit https://www.husqvarna.com/uk/

Master of the Mark: Simon Hughes Showcases the Future of Autonomous Line Marking

Against the historic backdrop of Ipswich’s Orwell Park School, Origin’s Line Marking Sales Manager demonstrates why the future of the industry is autonomous.

or Simon Hughes, a demo day is more than just a date in the diary; it is an opportunity to witness the “lightbulb moment” when a grounds manager realises their workload is about to be significantly streamlined. Recently, at the picturesque Orwell Park School in Ipswich, Simon took centre stage to showcase the latest from TinyMobileRobots, proving that elite-level precision is now accessible at the touch of a button.

As the Line Marking Sales Manager for Origin, Simon’s enthusiasm is rooted in a genuine desire to solve the practical headaches of his customers. “It was a pleasure to welcome so many visitors and really get stuck into the capabilities of these machines,” Simon reflects. The day featured a diverse range of demonstrations, from the standard geometry of football pitches to a bespoke 300-metre athletics track complete with a 100-metre straight. Watching the robot navigate these complex, custom curves with surgical accuracy left many seasoned professionals visibly impressed.

One of the most significant talking points of the day was the sheer simplicity of the interface. Simon guided visitors through the tablet-led

“There is a real joy in showing people that technology doesn’t have to be complicated to be brilliant. When you see a robot deliver a perfect athletics track in a fraction of the usual time, you aren’t just looking at a machine—you’re looking at a solution that frees up vital labour to carry out other essential duties whilst the marker is at work.”

Simon Hughes, Origin.

system, demonstrating how intuitive the process is from the initial poweron to the first drop of paint. “Our customers were particularly struck by how user-friendly the system is,” Simon explains. “But beyond the software, the hardware itself is a game-changer. The weight advantage of our machines compared to others on the market is a massive plus for turf health and ease of transport.”

For Simon, the real reward is the tangible boost to operational efficiency. By mastering the precision of overmarking and automating the initial setup, he is helping clubs save significant capital on paint and labour. This efficiency allows vital man-hours to be redirected toward other essential maintenance tasks while the robot is busy painting, ensuring the “athletes” have the best possible surface. Seeing the satisfaction on a customer’s face when they realise they can achieve better results with less manual strain is what keeps Simon’s passion for the industry alive.

Raising the bar without raising the burden Oakworth Juniors FC and the case for autonomous line marking

Across the country, grassroots clubs are quietly wrestling with the same problem: too much to do, and never enough hands to do it. Many assume autonomous line marking is out of reach for a club their size and budget. Oakworth Juniors FC is proof that it isn’t.

Oakworth Juniors FC is a community-driven football club where volunteers play a central role in maintaining the pitches. Like many grassroots organisations, the team is responsible for keeping pitches match-ready while working within limited time and resources. Presentation matters, not only

for players and coaches but also for visiting teams who expect a professional standard on matchday.

Sebastian Watts, Head Groundsman & Welfare Officer, and his team had an established routine for marking pitches, but maintaining a consistent standard across all fields remained a challenge. At the same time, paint usage and the time required for marking continued to add up, placing ongoing pressure on volunteers.

THE CHALLENGE

The initial trigger for change was not time, but quality.

Manual line marking, even when

done carefully, has its limitations. Achieving perfectly straight and uniform lines across an entire pitch is difficult, and small deviations become visible over time, especially with frequent re-marking.

For Oakworth Juniors, this affected the overall presentation of the facility. The club wanted pitches that looked sharp and professional every time.

In addition, paint usage was higher than expected. With pedestrian marking, the club was using approximately one and a half to two tubs of paint per pitch, requiring frequent replenishment. Combined with the effort required

from volunteers, it became clear that the current approach was not sustainable long term.

THE SOLUTION

That’s why Oakworth Juniors introduced Turf Tank to improve both consistency and efficiency.

The key advantage was repeatability. Each pitch layout could be applied with the same level of accuracy every time, removing the variability that comes with manual marking.

At the same time, the system optimized paint application. By controlling how paint is distributed, the robot ensures even coverage without overuse, improving line quality while reducing consumption. It also simplifies the process. The robot takes just five minutes to set up, and once it starts, it runs without supervision. This allows volunteers to focus on other tasks instead of being tied to line marking. Finally, cost had been a concern, but the subscription model made the decision straightforward. Rather than a significant upfront purchase, Oakworth Juniors could get a Turf Tank for a manageable fee.

A NEW LEVEL OF RELIABILITY

most noticeable changes is the consistency it brings. Every pitch is now marked with the same level of precision, ensuring accurate and consistent results each time. This level of reliability removes the variation that naturally comes with manual marking and guarantees that every pitch meets the same standard, regardless of who is responsible for the setup.

REDUCING WASTE WHILE INCREASING CONFIDENCE

organised environment.

In addition to these operational benefits, the club has seen a noticeable reduction in paint usage. By applying paint more efficiently, the system helps extend purchasing cycles and reduce ongoing costs, supporting a more sustainable approach to pitch maintenance.

“I would recommend it without a second thought. It’s not just about looks, it’s about your presentation, your time saving, your paint saving. There’s just so many benefits.”

-Sebastian Watts, Head Groundsman & Welfare Officer, Oakworth Juniors FC “

The impact of introducing Turf Tank at Oakworth Juniors goes well beyond the visual improvement of the pitches. One of the

For a club run largely by volunteers, the time savings have been just as important. Tasks that previously required significant effort can now be completed with far less manual input. This has reduced the overall workload and allowed volunteers to focus on other responsibilities around the club. The shift has not only improved efficiency but has also made the role less physically demanding and more manageable within limited schedules.

The improved presentation has also had a clear effect on the matchday experience. Well-defined, professional-looking pitches create a stronger first impression for players, coaches, and visiting teams. It reflects positively on the club and contributes to a more polished and

Equally important is the confidence it brings to the team. Volunteers are no longer secondguessing their work. Instead, they can rely on the process to deliver the same result every time, giving them peace of mind.

CONCLUSION

For Oakworth Juniors FC, the shift has been about more than improving lines on a pitch. It has created a more efficient, reliable, and supportive way of working for the people behind the scenes. By combining consistent results with reduced workload and smarter resource use, the club has been able to raise its standards while making everyday operations easier to manage.

www.turftank.com

OAS extends exclusive UK partnership with TinyMobileRobots

Origin Amenity Solutions (OAS) are delighted to announce the extension of their exclusive UK distribution agreement with TinyMobileRobots, marking a significant milestone in a partnership that sets the standard for line marking and robotic solutions across the industry.

This renewed long term agreement, reflects a shared commitment to innovation, customer-focused development and the delivery of best-in-class technology. By strengthening its ties with one of the sectors leading innovators, OAS reaffirms its position at the forefront of robotic line marking solutions in the UK.

The partnership combines TinyMobileRobot’s advanced range of robotic platforms with more than a decade of industry experience within the OAS team. With the addition of OAS’ established customer relationships, market leading Duraline and Impact paint

ranges and comprehensive service infrastructure, customers benefit not only from unbeatable quality and cutting-edge technology, but also from the training and support required to maximise the markers full potential.

Richard Walton, OAS Managing Director, said, “From the very beginning, TinyMobileRobots demonstrated a second to none level of understanding. From robotic engineers to grounds professionals working at all levels of the game, their focus is, and always has been, on understanding how technology could be enhanced to better serve the end user. From their knowledge and research and our feedback from the field, the result is a range of products that are intuitive, highly-efficient and easy to use.”

“We are incredibly proud of the strong and successful partnership we’ve built with TinyMobileRobots and look forward to our future

collaboration as we look to take the technology to the next level.”

Daniel Breum, CEO of TinyMobileRobots added, “Working with a partner of Origin’s calibre and reputation in the UK market is a distinct privilege for us. Our relationship has evolved and our two organisations interact on multiple levels daily, driven by a shared goal to deliver an exceptional customer experience.”

Nutri-link

“Looking ahead to the future, I am incredibly excited to strengthen this partnership even further, utilising our combined strengths to set new benchmarks for quality and service in the industry.”

To find out more about TinyMobileRobots and to discover why the Pro X and TinyLineMarker Sport are the trusted choice for facilities around the country and throughout Europe visit tinymobilerobots.co.uk

Impact Tr

Only the best Groundwork, Drainage and Pipework products

Rouden Pipetek Ltd supplies and distributes Drainage and Pipework products from the UK’s leading manufacturers. We predominantly distribute to groundwork, construction, civil engineering, and agricultural companies. We are committed to providing a first-class service and competitively priced products to all of our clients. Due to our longstanding presence within the industry (we commenced trading in May 2001), we have become reliable distributors to some of the smallest and largest businesses in the UK. Whether your requirement is for a length of pipe or a motorway drainage system, our sales team can provide a cost-effective solution to suit your needs.

To ensure our products reach you as quickly as possible, we have four Branches in the South of England. These are located in Horsham, West Sussex, Maidstone, Kent, Cullompton, Devon and Petersfield, Hampshire. All of our large storage and distribution sites are fully stocked, and boast a vast and comprehensive range of pipework systems and associated products.

Rouden Pipetek offers a next day delivery service, with other delivery options available depending on customer requirements. Our fleet of specialist delivery vehicles and fully qualified drivers, get the products to our customers safely and efficiently.

Rouden Pipetek is a one-stop facility for civil engineering, building and construction companies, whilst also supplying, sports ground contractors, utility and telecommunications contractors. We are also proud to supply specialist water feature and building services companies, as well as agricultural contractors.

Our product range includes, but is certainly not limited to the following;

Foul Water Drainage Systems (plastic & clay), Surface Water Drainage Systems, Twinwall Service Ducting, Street light and Traffic Signal Ducting, Land Drainage Pipework and Geothermal Heating Systems.

Whether your requirement is for a length of pipe or a motorway drainage system, our sales team can provide a cost-effective solution to suit your needs.

We also offer a Specialist Fabrication service, Barrier Pipe Systems, Sewage Treatment Plants, and Manhole Covers and Frames. Other lines include Linear Channel Drainage Systems, Grass Reinforcement, Geotextile Membranes, Attenuation Crates and PVCu and ABS Chemical Pipework Systems. For a comprehensive list of our products and further information, simply visit our Products page.

mail@rouden.co.uk www.rouden.co.uk

The largest independent pipework supplier in the south of England

Rouden Pipetek is a one-stop facility for civil engineering, building and construction companies, additionally supplying to sports ground contractors, utility and telecommunications contractors. We also supply to specialist water feature and building services companies, as well as agricultural contractors.

For a comprehensive list of our products and further information, simply visit our website.

New Barn, Ham Barn Business Park Farnham Road, Petersfield, Hampshire GU33 6LG 01730 777 350 Petersfield

The Orchard, Brighton Road, Pease Pottage, Crawley, West Sussex, RH11 9AB 01403 275 276 Pease Pottage

Detling Aerodrome Ind. Estate Detling, Maidstone, Kent ME14 3HU 01795 843 866 Maidstone

Hitchcocks Business Park Anthony Way, Uffculme Cullompton, Devon EX15 3FX 01884 211 788 Cullompton

Water Wisely

eliable irrigation is essential for maintaining highquality turf across golf courses, sports grounds, landscapes and agricultural areas. At TWL Irrigation, we provide an extensive range of professional irrigation products designed to help installers, greenskeepers and turf managers keep systems operating efficiently throughout the season.

ROur range includes automatic irrigation controllers, decoders and advanced fault-finding equipment,

helping professionals quickly diagnose system issues, test wiring and ensure irrigation systems are operating correctly. Alongside supplying equipment, we also provide technical support and advice to help customers identify faults and maintain their systems with confidence.

We also supply a wide selection of professional hand watering products and specialist tools from Underhill. This includes robust hand watering solutions, wetting agent applicator guns designed for accurate distribution of liquid or

pellet products, and a variety of practical maintenance tools used by turf professionals worldwide.

Whether you are preparing irrigation systems for the growing season, maintaining sports turf, or managing landscapes and nurseries, TWL Irrigation offers the equipment, knowledge and support to keep systems performing reliably.

TWL Irrigation – If In Drought, Give Us A Shout!Phone: 01346 531193 | Email: sales@twl-irrigation.com | Web: www.twl-irrigation.com

TurfSpy™

EARLy STRESS DETECTION GLASSES

Disease, drought and weed invasion are plant and turf killers. But by the time you see them it can be too late. TurfSpy™ glasses, with stress detection technology developed by NASA, lets you “see into the future” to identify problems 2-10 days before they are visible to your naked eye. Keep your turf and vegetation healthy BEFORE serious problems arise.

features

• Shatterproof/polycarbonate stress detection lens (ANSI approved safety lens)

• Wrap-around lens limits ambient light for optimal detection

• Sports frame with adjustable ear piece

• Lightweight case included

superior weed location and spraying saves time and money poa grass invasion identified BEFORE it takes over highly efficient spot watering saves time and labor costs get a jump on broken or poor-performing sprinklers anthracnose brown patch yellow patch (rhizoctonia) pythium blight fusarium patch

HOW IT WORKS

Dying vegetation absorbs and reflects sunlight differently then when its healthy. The earliest signals occur at the outer limits of the human visual spectrum, and are rendered invisible compared to the predominant middle wavelengths. TurfSpy™ filters the light in the center so that fringe spectra, which show early plant stress, become visible.

ISEKI TG 6495 Versatility Drives Year-Round Growth at Brora Golf Club

ver the past four seasons, Brora Golf Club has used its ISEKI TG 6495, supplied by ISEKI UK & Ireland through local dealer Fairways, as a platform for sustained growth. As play has increased and infrastructure has expanded, the tractor has become central to scaling operations, maintaining standards and strengthening the club’s long-term development plans.

Set against the dramatic coastline of the north of Scotland, Brora is widely regarded as one of the country’s most distinctive links courses. With increasing numbers of golfers travelling to the Highlands,

pressure on key playing surfaces has intensified, particularly on hightraffic tees.

“As we get busier, we’re having to make our tees bigger to accommodate so much more golf,” explains Course Manager James MacBeth. “We needed to get more machinery, and the Iseki was a big part of that.”

For James, a tractor is a long-term operational investment expected to deliver 10 to 15 years of continuous work. That expectation has been met through versatility and yearround capability. During the main season, the TG 6495 supports

spraying operations and fills top dressers, helping the team maintain presentation standards as demand rises. In winter, it becomes central to renovation and improvement works.

“The versatility is the main reason we got the TG 6495, and the power and front lift capacity are really important in that.

“We use it for spraying and filling up top dressers. But in the winter, it’s used for bunker work, moving bridges and whatever else we need it for. It’s very busy in the winter, so it’s a piece of kit that’s used all year round.

“That size and power were exactly

what we were looking for, so we can use it for multiple tasks. If we ever need to get bigger verti-drains on the back, we can do that, and that’s important over a long period of time.”

The tractor’s reliability has underpinned that growth. “The tractor is four years old now, and it’s been very reliable so far. It’s always done everything we need it to do.”

That consistency has also created capacity beyond the golf course itself. As activity and revenue have increased, Brora has been able to invest time and expertise back into the village, with the TG 6495 playing a practical role.

“As we’re growing as a club and taking in a bit more money, we can expand and help the community.

“We solid tine, overseed and top dress the bowling green, and I look

after the football pitch at Brora Rangers as well. Any other thing we can do within the village that we can help with, the club are really keen to do that.”

With growth continuing and future development in mind, the TG 6495 provides Brora Golf Club with the

power, flexibility and reliability required for the next phase. It is not simply supporting today’s workload, but giving the club the operational confidence to keep evolving in the years ahead.

www.iseki.co.uk

Superb mower for an elite turf finish

S Pro in 3m working width elevates reputation of specialist landscape company RA Country Services who serves prestigious estates and sports facilities throughout South East England.

RA Country Services in West Sussex has been servicing highend client properties in some of the most prestigious estates and sports facilities for over twenty years. Because of the business’ reputation in providing a highclass finish to its work contracts, they are often approached by elite clients looking for the ultimate in grounds-care service.

“We have an extensive customer base which requires maintenance of high-quality sports pitches for football, rugby and cricket,” explained owner Richard Amer. “Grassland management is a major part of our business and we also carry out a lot of equine paddock management.

“We pride ourselves in always going the extra mile to achieve total customer satisfaction. We want our customers to walk out through their grounds and sports pitches and always be proud of what we have done for them,” Richard emphasises.

Three years ago, Richard began looking to enhance his machinery. His finishing mower wasn’t leaving the required finish for his contracts. Plus, it was only 1.8m wide and he needed to increase the cutting width and his daily output to meet increasing customer demand.

His dealer, Farol Ltd, recommended the Major MJ65300 CS Pro. The Major CS Pro is a fully mounted rotary mower designed for compact tractors tackling dense vegetation and long grass yet capable of delivering a pristine finish in fine turf conditions.

The ability to cope with rough grassland and fine turf conditions is due to the unique blade system. The gearbox driveline powers four rotors and 16 blades under three pivoting decks. Durable 5mm boron steel blades overlap and ensure no material is left uncut across the working width.

The finish left behind the Major is a league or more above the previous machine and is better than I have seen from any other mower,” enthused Richard. “It has front and rear rollers, which help firm the grass surface and minimises scalping. The rotary blades are excellent at mulching the residue and avoids leaving lumps of clippings behind.”

The MJ65-300 comes in a 3.0m working width which can fold up to a 2.0m transport width,

which means it can be easily transported by trailer.

“We are running a John Deere 3046R compact tractor, which is almost fifty-horsepower and it comfortably drives the CS Pro,” said Richard. “The mower has folding wings which enables ease of road transport between customer sites, but also has a 3.0m cutting width. It is much bigger than our previous mower and better on daily performance. This is the perfect combination for us and works well on our clients’ estates and sports fields.”

The mower is built using Strenx™ 700 high-strength steel which is stronger, yet much lighter than steel used in ordinary mowers. Combined with a fully galvanised finish, the Major CS Pro has the durability and integrity to

MAJOR CS Pro Mower

outlast many competitive makes.

The beltless design and simple operating system contribute to low-maintenance qualities. “The Major CS Pro is easy to service and maintain,” added Richard. “With the galvanised finish, we can see this mower lasting us for many years to come. I would recommend this to all the professional turf contractors and landscapers out there. They just need to try it out for themselves to see what a difference this mower can make in providing a beautiful finish with a highoutput performance to all kinds of turf applications and especially fine-turf.”

For more information and to arrange a demonstration visit www.major-equipment.com or call 01524 850501.

3m working width. Wings fold neatly to a 2m transport width

in

Consistent cutting with no belts to maintain

Baroness retains championship quality of cut at the prestigious Vale Resort

aintaining top-flight playing surfaces across a large, multi-use facility demands more than just quality turfcare equipment – it requires absolute reliability, operational efficiency and a consistently high standard of finish. For The Vale Resort, Baroness has become an increasingly important part of that equation, with the recent delivery of four LM551 fairway mowers adding to the finesse delivered by four LM331 surrounds mowers already at the venue.

Recognised as one of Wales’ most prestigious resorts, the site nestled among the Vale of Glamorgan countryside has undergone significant expansion over the years. Within the 650acre private estate is a hotel, health and racquets club used by leisure members and six football and rugby pitches, for training

by the FAW and WRU. Under the longstanding involvement of Head Greenkeeper Mike Bevan, the golf element has grown from a modest nine-hole layout into two 18-hole championship courses, maintained by a team of 12 greenkeepers.

“We try to limit the sharing of equipment between departments as, when you get a break in the weather, it tends to be the same machines that are in demand site-wide” explains Noel Werner, Golf Manager at the Vale Resort. “This drove a conscious decision to invest in equipment that is dedicated for golf. In exploring the options available in the mower market with the support of Geraint Richards at GJR Machinery, the quality of cut from Baroness stood out immediately.”

“We purchased four LM331 mowers in 2022 which are used daily during the main growing

season on banks, tee and green surrounds and other peripheral areas. These mowers tick a lot of boxes – not just the quality of cut they deliver and the fact they stay on cut incredibly well, but from a maintenance and servicing perspective everything is super simple to work on.” Noel adds, “Their reliable performance is invaluable to us as such a busy resort where downtime just isn’t an option.”

Building on the success of the LM331’s, the club expanded its Baroness fleet further in October 2025 with the purchase of four LM551 mowers for the fairways. While winter conditions have limited their usage to date, expectations are high for the season ahead.

“The whole team are really looking forward to getting them out when new season growth arrives. Based on our experience with the surround mowers, we’re confident they’ll deliver the same precision, consistency and reliability on the fairways.”

Support has been another key factor in the relationship – with GJR Machinery and Baroness’s Paul Watson delivering fast, effective back-up when needed. “For a complex of this size, support is critical.” He emphasises, “Knowing there’s a team behind us, that understands our operation and is available to offer help and advice just further reinforces our confidence in the brand. It makes a massive difference.”

New lightweight battery mower from Dennis makes professional groundskeeping a breeze

ennis Mowers has unveiled the newest addition to its range of highperformance professional mowers: the lightweight ES-34SL batterypowered mower, designed for everyday use and flawless finishing.

A dedicated, battery-powered finishing mower using the latest lithium-ion battery technology, the ES-34SL is perfect for use on stadium pitches and training grounds in professional sports like football, rugby, hockey and baseball. It is also ideal for use on squares and outfields in cricket, as well as at schools, universities and other municipal facilities.

On a single charge, the new battery mower can cut for up to 10 hours

– equivalent to 40 kilometres –with its rapid, two-hour recharge costing as little as £1.58*. Its ultralow noise and vibration technology, meanwhile, allows for operation near areas of play without disturbance, improves operator health and safety, and is perfect for schools and universities where noise disturbance is of paramount importance during spring and summer.

At around 50 kg lighter than Dennis’ existing ES-860 battery mower, the ES-34SL is ideal for daily use and minimising soil compaction. The combination of reduced weight, reduced rear roller diameter, click adjustable Weile roller and intermediate grooming brush, allows for greater ease of use and control over the final finish, which serves to produce the flawless stripes that Dennis’ product range is renowned for.

The mower’s clip rate can be defined by the user to suit their specific surface and preferences and, once set, remains consistent, even if the machine speed is adjusted or a colleague takes over.

Furthermore, the ES-34SL is fitted with a weatherproof, colour LCD programmable display and keypad that operate the machine

and relay real-time information to the operator, including ground speed, battery charge level and machine settings.

Megan Oliver, managing director at Dennis Mowers, said: “We are delighted to be launching the ES-34SL professional battery mower, which we’ve developed in response to direct feedback from grounds professionals. In addition to the popular features in our range, our challenge was to design a lightweight machine that helped to reduce soil compaction and was therefore suitable for everyday use, while still delivering the flawless presentation stripes relied upon for match days.

“Designed with day-to-day use in mind and supported by the service and consistency that our customers value, it’s another step forward in professional mowing.”

For more information on the Dennis range of mowers, visit www.dennisuk.com

To find out more about Howardson Group, go to www.howardsongroup.com

From sports turf to parkland and managed grassland, specialist grounds demand a mowing solution that can handle varying grass lengths, changing conditions and large areas without compromising cut quality. Maintaining consistency across these factors is key to keeping operations efficient and predictable.

Eco Clipper takes a different approach. Small, high-speed blades combined with an aerodynamic deck deliver a clean, even cut, even in longer grass and wetter conditions. This reduces reliance on narrow weather windows and keeps operations moving.

Efficiency is built into the concept. A low power requirement enables wider working widths on the same tractor, increasing productivity without additional fuel demand. An electric blade drive supports quieter operation and reduced maintenance.

In the field, this translates into higher mowing capacity and significantly lower fuel use compared to traditional flail and rotary systems, while maintaining a consistent cut.

For those managing diverse terrain, a practical alternative worth considering.

www.ecoclipper.com

FELCO’s reputation is built on professional-grade tools crafted from long-lasting materials, precise cutting mechanisms, and user-focused ergonomics.

Their hedge shears follow this philosophy, delivering dependable performance for both intensive landscaping and detailed garden work.

The FELCO 250 -57 is engineered for controlled, accurate trimming. Its corrosion-resistant, chrome-plated hardened steel blades provide consistently clean cuts, while its lightweight aluminium handles with non-slip grips and integrated shock absorbers help minimise strain during extended use.

For gardeners who require additional reach, the FELCO 250 -63 offers the same high-quality blade construction paired with longer handles, giving extra leverage and improved access when working on taller or wider growth.

The balanced design and ergonomic handle profile ensure confident handling whether shaping hedges, refining topiary, or managing elevated sections.

Across the range, FELCO’s thoughtful engineering, replaceable components, and micro-metric blade adjustment system deliver lasting performance and precise results, setting a standard that stands apart for all gardeners.

Order from Burton McCall LtdT: 0116 234 4611 E: sales@burton-mccall.com

www.ecoclipper.com

Flails Direct started supplying flail mower/hedgecutter blades and their associated parts more than 25 years ago, initially selling to local drainage boards and farmers.

The business has grown dramatically over the years, and they now supply to the Agricultural, Amenity, Forestry and Land Management companies as well as end users both in the UK and globally.

From their vastly stocked warehouse located on the Lincolnshire/Nottinghamshire

border they can supply a large range of flails/associated parts on a next day delivery service to the majority of UK customers.

Flails Direct also hold some stock items for supplying directly to several machine manufacturers. These items are sold exclusively to these manufacturers and are not sold directly to the end user.

Flails Direct are happy to receive any purchase enquiries from equipment manufacturers, dealers and end users with regards to flails,

topper blades or any other wearing parts that require manufacturing on their behalf.

Various other types of blades are also available from Flails Direct’s warehouse, including: many rotovator blades, stone burier blades, green waste shredder blades and forestry mulcher carbide tipped teeth

For any enquiries large or small Flails Direct will be willing to assist

FEEL THE POWER

Built for professionals, ECHO’s 56V Battery Series offers low noise, zero-emissions and low maintenance. Often rivalling the power of their petrol equivalents, many products are lighter, making them highly manoeuvrable and causing less user fatigue.

www.echo-tools.co.uk

Groundsman Grass Maintenance Machines

Since 1990, Groundsman Industries have developed their unique range of grass maintenance machines and accessories for maximum performance and durability from their factory base in Co. Antrim N. Ireland.

Two and Four-wheel drive Turf Cutters deliver effortless sod cutting with low operating vibration levels. These versatile machines can be fitted with sod blades 30cm to 60cm wide to cut 1cm to 7cm thick sod and a Cultivator Blade to prepare the surface for new sod. Trench, De-compaction and Mole-draining blades can cut down to 12cm deep. A Guillotine Attachment is available to measure and chop the sod into lengths for easy handing or relaying.

Groundsman Aerators are available from 60cm to 180cm working widths. All use Groundsman’s proven durable Elliptical Plunge Action mechanism for aeration down to 15cm. Quick-change Tines for Solid Spiking, Hollow Coring and Chisel Slitting are available for plus Cluster Tines for dense pattern needle and micro hollow aeration, thatch removal and over-seeding.

The incredibly efficient Flexblade Core Collector is available from 0.8mtr to 2.3mtr widths to fit many makes of aerators as well as Groundsman to core and collect in one pass plus three point linkage mounting for follow-up core collection.

Visit: www.groundsmanindustries.com

Tel: +44(0) 28 2766 7049

Email: enquiries@groundsmanindustries.com

Thorn Lighting shortlisted for Venue Technology Award at TheStadiumBusiness Awards 2026

Thorn Lighting is pleased to announce that it has been shortlisted for the Venue Technology Award at TheStadiumBusiness Awards 2026 for its work on “The Lighthouse” effect at Sunderland AFC’s Stadium of Light.

Now in their 17th year, TheStadiumBusiness Awards recognise leadership, innovation and achievement across the global stadium and venue sector. The Awards celebrate the organisations, projects and people shaping the future of sports and entertainment venues worldwide.

Delivered in partnership with Sunderland AFC, the project demonstrates how advanced lighting technology can move beyond traditional performance requirements to support both operational efficiency and fan engagement.

At the heart of the scheme is Thorn Lighting’s Altis Gen 5 LED floodlighting system, which not only improves broadcast-quality lighting and reduces energy consumption, but also enables dynamic lighting control. This flexibility has allowed the club to introduce a synchronised light-and-sound prematch experience, now known as “The Lighthouse”, creating a new matchday ritual for supporters.

“The Stadium of Light project shows how lighting is evolving from infrastructure into experience,” says Neil Thompson Key Account Manager at Zumtobel Group. “With Altis Gen 5, we’re not only delivering broadcast-quality performance and energy savings but also enabling clubs to create moments like ‘The Lighthouse’ that connect with fans in a completely new way.”

“As the world’s leading gathering of stadium and venue leaders, each year TheStadiumBusiness Summit

brings together the very best of the industry to showcase what’s new, explore the challenges we face and debate the trends shaping the future,” says Ian Nuttall, Founder of TheStadiumBusiness.

“Alongside the conference and workshops, the Awards recognise the people and organisations who are raising standards and driving innovation across the industry. Congratulations to Thorn Lighting on being named a finalist in TheStadiumBusiness Awards 2026.”

The winners will be announced during TheStadiumBusiness Awards 2026, taking place in Manchester on Wednesday 3 June (18.00–20.30) as part of TheStadiumBusiness Summit 2026.

For more information on Thorn Lightings sports lighting range please visit https://www. thornlighting.co.uk/en-gb/ applications/sports

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A Watford FC Targets Turf Recovery and Disease Resistance with Consolidate Nutrition Programme

t a training ground where demands rarely ease and pitch usage is relentless, Watford FC is turning to Consolidate Turf’s specialist nutrition products to enhance plant resilience, accelerate surface recovery, and stay one step ahead of disease.

Consolidate Turf specialises in plant health and anti-stress liquid base applications designed to work in harmony with existing maintenance regimes. The product range supports turf health through improved nutrient uptake, root strength, and disease resistance, all areas where the Watford grounds team is looking to gain marginal advantages.

For Training Ground Head Groundsman James Fennessy, working in an environment where frequent managerial changes often mean shifts in training intensity,

adapting and planning proactively has become essential.

“When we first spoke to Paul and Anthony at Consolidate Turf, it was the plant health aspect that interested us,” James explains. “With ourselves and the industry generally, it’s the small percentages that make the difference, and after trialling the products we haven’t looked back.

“Anyone can get recovery when the conditions are ideal,” says James. “What Consolidate allows us to do is recover in the tougher periods, and that’s where we gain small percentages.”

Watford now regularly uses Consolidate Plus, Carb and Enrich, along with other nutritional inputs, such as calcium and magnesium. The key benefit, James says, is how they perform in real-world conditions, particularly during wet periods and shoulder seasons.

“Our key areas are turf health, visual presentation and water management, and the Consolidate combination of products works great for that.

“We’re water conscious, like many clubs, so we avoid applying more than we need. That’s why we time our Consolidate applications around rainfall or heavy irrigation, so we’re not watering excessively.”

“That’s enabled us to continue with pitch recovery. The visual aspect of the pitch is stunning, and we’re still getting that green growth. But it’s not lush, fleshy top growth; we’re getting a strong leaf.

And again, having it in the locker when we have a wet summer or even a wet winter has really played a significant role over the last two years. If it does rain, we know that instead of applying a traditional foliar, we can then lean

on Consolidate knowing that we’re going to get a better result.”

Whilst pitch recovery is important, a significant issue in the industry is disease. With fungicides becoming weaker due to regulations, James has collaborated with Anthony to develop a programme that enhances the plant’s natural resistance to disease with significant effect.

“Using Consolidate, we’re able to be proactive rather than reactive against disease,” James explains.

“We’re able to put tank mixes together in the rain and give the plant what it needs to combat disease from within rather than spraying on top and beating it that way.”

Just as valuable as the results on the pitch has been the service and expertise that comes with it. James says the support from

Consolidate product specialist Anthony Asquith has played a key role in helping the team get the most from the programme.

“I learn something new every time Anthony visits. He’ll go deep into the science, but it always comes back to practical results,” James explains. “He provides support when we need it, and he’s willing to show us every aspect of the products and talk things through because he knows the products work.

“By working with him and trialling them, I’ve been able to get my head around it because everything’s been so structured in the industry before now with how and when you apply granulars and liquids. Once Anthony got me to think of the Consolidate products as a liquid granular, I got it, and we started getting the best from them.”

Maintaining Grass Cover in a Shaded Stadium

Sheffield Wednesday’s stadium presents a challenging environment for turf, with significant shade and limited use of supplementary lighting. Alongside this, the pitch sees consistent use from first team and under-21 fixtures, as well as training sessions.

“Our biggest challenge is a very old, heavily shaded stadium with limited use of lighting rigs,” says Head Groundsman Lee Jackson.

“Maintaining grass cover through the season is never straightforward.”

As part of a partial rebuild ahead of the 2025 season, ProSelect 1 Premium Pitch, a perennial ryegrass mixture designed for highwear sports pitches, was used for renovation and overseeding.

“I’ve used ProSelect 1 for close to 10 years and have always trusted how it performs, so I

had no hesitation using it again, even in a completely different environment,” Lee explains.

Establishment proved difficult initially due to high temperatures during summer 2025 and the nature of the rebuild.

“The early grow-in was tough because of the heat, but once it got going the coverage developed faster than I’ve seen for a number of years.”

Following establishment, the pitch was subjected to sustained use, particularly between December and February.

“We had eight first team games and ten training sessions on the pitch during that period, and we’re around 10% up on usage compared to last season,” says Lee.

Despite this, grass cover has been maintained through the winter months.

“We’ve kept more grass cover than many expected through that period, and recovery after use has been strong, especially considering the environment.”

Presentation and surface consistency have also improved across the season, supported by relatively low disease pressure.

“There’s been a noticeable improvement overall, and that’s been recognised by players and staff who have been here a number of years,” Lee adds.

For Lee, performance in this type of environment is the real measure.

“If you can get grass growing and maintain it in this kind of stadium, with limited lighting, it shows its value as part of the overall pitch management programme.”

Please contact ICL on 01473 237100 or visit www.icl-growingsolutions.com

Origin Amenity Solutions enters exclusive partnership with ZymeCo

ymeCo, the innovators behind a range of novel enzyme technologies, are pleased to have formed an exclusive partnership with Origin Amenity Solutions (OAS) to lead product distribution in the UK and across the EU. In addition to offering ThatchZyme this season, the partnership will grant OAS sole distribution of new enzyme products currently in development, to help turf professionals achieve their agronomic goals.

ThatchZyme is a proven sprayable thatch control that offers a new approach to organic matter control that reduces the reliance on labour intensive and disruptive mechanical operations such as scarification or hollow coring. By targeting the most resistant components of thatch, ThatchZyme’s patented formulation accelerates natural breakdown processes, helping to reduce organic matter accumulations and improve the play performance of fine turf surfaces.

Ideal for golf greens and tees, sports surfaces and sites where disruption needs to be kept to a minimum, ThatchZyme works by harnessing the power of Laccase, a naturally occurring enzyme that breaks down the toughest and most resistant component of thatch – lignin. While soil biology naturally produces this enzyme, modern turf practices, particularly nitrogen inputs, can limit its activity. ThatchZyme supplements this by delivering an effective dose directly into

the thatch layer, accelerating its breakdown through natural biological pathways – working in conjunction with existing spray programmes.

In extensive field trials, ThatchZyme demonstrated a 15.8% reduction in organic matter accumulations compared to untreated turf across multiple sites. Treated areas showed stable or reduced thatch levels and a visible reduction in thatch layers within a single season. In controlled studies, it has also shown a 21% increase in root length in creeping bentgrass.

“We’re delighted to start an exciting new partnership between ZymeCo and OAS which focuses on offering innovative, data driven products to the UK and European markets” comments Nutrition

& Speciality Products Manager for OAS Jamie Lees. “The first step is to introduce ThatchZyme into the UK turf industry which provides turf managers with a tried and tested solution in organic matter management. We believe ThatchZyme will provide a vital tool in following an integrated approach to reduce thatch accumulation, whilst improving both soil health and playing surfaces, but more importantly backed by extensive research and data.”

Those wishing to learn more about ThatchZyme can do so in a free webinar, taking place on Tuesday 19th May. To register to attend, or for more information, visit originamenity.com/thatchzyme

Timely application gives the best lawn service results

New sprayer technology is enabling Norfolk lawn care specialist Will Dunger to achieve more timely applications for customers across a wider area, at a time climate shift is reducing spraying opportunities this spring.

“We seem to be getting fewer windows for ideal spraying conditions at the optimum timing for treatments. Being able to cover a larger area more effectively, and with greater accuracy, ensures when we’ll get the best results from every application,” advocates Will, owner of Will’s Norfolk Lawns.

With soil temperatures warming

up and growth potential rising, herbicide application will soon be a priority on lawns where it’s needed, but that also coincides with the busy spring period for other lawn activities.

“For herbicide applications we’re looking to apply in the narrow window when growing conditions are good to get rapid uptake of product, but before established weeds get too large that makes them more difficulty to control. In recent seasons we’ve also seen conditions can quickly turn too dry for optimum control.

“Being able to spray large areas quickly and accurately means

we can achieve better results for customers,” he says.

With his Techneat SPPS (SelfPropelled Pedestrian Sprayer) Will reports they can easily cover a hectare of more lawn spraying in a day across three to four sites. For larger scale jobs, he’s previously sprayed 1.4 hectares in less than three hours.

He calibrates the spray to operate at 400 l/ha, operating with 04 nozzles. “It’s a good compromise between optimum leaf coverage and comfortable spraying speed, with minimal risk of drift.

“We want to make sure that we get the maximum product

onto the target, which is better for efficacy and minimises any risk of off-target effects or environmental loss,” he highlights. However, the sprayer’s multi nozzle bayonets allow a quick switch to larger nozzles for drift reduction or higher water volumes, particularly if soil target treatments are being applied.

“We are always looking at new innovations in turf agronomy from golf or sports pitch management, and how that might benefit lawn care quality. That’s where the accuracy and consistency of sprayer applications can also help,” he says.

Previously they have relied on granular wetting agents to

counter hydrophobic soils, where dry patch is an issue on sandy sites, for example, but the advent of new longer-lasting liquid wetting agents could offer a spray treatment in the future.

Plant growth regulators, biostimulants and fungicides could also become more important in integrated lawn management strategies, where climate shift is creating new challenges and issues for customers, Will believes.

It’s his second Techneat SPPS sprayer, but with the advent of front folding booms he can now transport it in the company’s van, rather than requiring a trailer with the previous machine. That makes it quicker to move around

and access more sites.

“We are solely focussed on giving the best lawn care service possible, where having the latest equipment ensures we can provide more customers with an efficient and effective complete service all through the season,” he adds.

For more information please contact:

James English

Techneat Engineering

Tel: 01353 862044

Email: james.english@techneat.co.uk

Mark Sanderson

Techneat Engineering

Tel: 0777 568 1818

Email: mark.s@toppr.co.uk

Techneat Tech Spec

The Techneat SPPS (Self-Propelled Pedestrian Sprayer) delivers precision high-output application for professional managers of lawns, sports fields and amenity turf. The compact and highly manoeuvrable design enables its use in a wide range of situations, according to Techneat amenity grounds care specialist, James English.

“With booms available to spray up to five meters in a pass, and up to 150 litre spray tank, the SPPS will quickly cover large areas - minimising disruption to players or customers and releasing staff time for other jobs,” he points out.

“The three-wheeled ultra-low ground pressure tyres ensure minimal impact on the turf surfaces, with an axle differential fitted to avoid scuffing on turns and maintain consistent coverage.”

The sprayer is fitted with a triple nozzle housing to quickly switch between different applications with maximum accuracy, with non-drip nozzles as standard. There is also the option for a foam bout marker.

James adds the SPPS is fitted with a 5hp Honda petrol engine, while the equivalent Pro-ESpray is fully battery powered.

GROUNDSFEST 2026: MORE THAN JUST A SHOW

GroundsFest 2026 is set to return with strong momentum, building on the rapid growth and industry support that has quickly established it as one of the must-attend events for grounds management and landscaping professionals. Taking place on 16 and 17 September at Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire, the event continues to evolve – not just in scale, but in the overall experience it delivers.

Following record-breaking growth in previous years, GroundsFest 2026 is already shaping up to be its biggest edition yet. Exhibitor demand remains exceptionally strong, with many companies booking early and a significant number increasing their stand sizes to showcase more products and innovations. For visitors, this means more to see, more to explore, and more opportunities to engage directly with the latest developments in the industry. The exhibition halls will once again feature a wide range of brands covering every aspect of the sector.

From groundscare machinery and landscaping equipment to technology, materials, and services, GroundsFest delivers a comprehensive showcase. The layout is designed to be easy to navigate while encouraging discovery, whether that’s finding new suppliers, comparing solutions, or keeping up to date with emerging trends.

Outdoors, the live demonstrations and hands-on opportunities to test equipment remain a standout feature. These sessions bring machinery and products to life, allowing visitors not only to watch equipment in action but often to experience it first-hand. It’s a practical, real-world way to assess performance, ask questions directly to experts, and understand how products perform in genuine working conditions.

GroundsFest is also known for its atmosphere, which goes far beyond a traditional trade show.

The event places a strong emphasis on connection, conversation, and community, reflected in features such as the ever-popular lawn mower racing, which continues to attract crowds and add a light-hearted competitive edge.

The festival-style evening on the first day further sets GroundsFest apart. Combining live music, street food, and entertainment, it offers a relaxed environment for visitors and exhibitors to continue conversations and build relationships away from the show floor.

Education also plays a key role, with a programme of seminars and discussions designed to deliver practical insight and tackle real industry challenges. Covering a wide range of relevant topics, these sessions aim to provide takeaways that can be applied directly in dayto-day work.

GroundsFest remains free to attend, with free parking available onsite, making it highly accessible for professionals across the UK and beyond. Its broad appeal spans landscaping, local authorities, sports turf, estates management, and education, encouraging valuable cross-sector learning and collaboration.

As anticipation builds, GroundsFest 2026 is firmly positioned to deliver its most engaging and dynamic edition yet – an event that continues to bring the industry together in a way that feels relevant, practical, and genuinely worthwhile. Visitor registration opens towards the end of May at www.groundsfest.com

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With focuses on Aeration, Irrigation & Drainage; Greenskeeping; Latest News; Machinery; Pitch & Line Marking; Specialist Mowers; Sports Ground Equipment; Sports Pitches; Top Dressing; Sprayers & Spraying and Turf Management.

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