Developed by Fielder Nutrition, the product – named Surge – is among the first to merge biological inoculants with a targeted micronutrient package, aiming to give crops both a biological and nutritional edge from the earliest stages of development.

The formulation includes three UK-derived bacillus strains, which have been proven to significantly improve root growth, stimulate enhanced germination and support the plant’s ability to cope with stress conditions.

Further to this, the bacillus strains work to enhance the soil and reduce the need for other synthetic inputs as they solubilise P in the soul and fix nitrogen.

Complementing this microbial blend is a manganese-rich micronutrient mix, designed to further encourage root expansion and early nutrient uptake.

Fielder Nutrition director Robert Hawkin says Surge stands apart from traditional seed treatments:

“The interaction between the microbes and the micronutrients is unlike anything we’ve seen before – it enhances germination and seedling vigour, helping the plant access water and nutrients more effectively through a more developed root system.”

A closer look at Surge

The development of Surge began five years ago, with the product undergoing extensive field evaluations across the UK to ensure strong performance under British growing conditions.

One of the contributors to its design is Dr. Apostolos Papadopoulos, a specialist in Bacillus microbiology.

“Surge is built around a biological core – specifically, beneficial Bacillus bacteria – which are included to support the early stages of crop growth and long-term plant vitality,” says Dr Papadopoulos.

“These are naturally occurring, spore-forming microbes that colonise the root zone at germination, forming a mutually beneficial interaction with the plant.”

He explains that Surge works through multiple mechanisms:

• Encouraging early and vigorous root development, which helps seedlings access water and nutrients more effectively
• Increasing phosphorus availability in the soil through microbial solubilisation
• Enhancing the plant’s tolerance to stress, both environmental and disease-related, by improving root-soil dynamics and triggering internal defence responses.

“Although the results might not always be visible above ground straight away,” he adds, “the biological activity contributes to more even crop emergence and stronger early vigour – which can lead to more reliable yields, especially when growing conditions are less than ideal.”

According to Dr. Papadopoulos, Surge also differs from many of the microbial seed treatments currently on the market.

“What sets it apart is that its Bacillus strains have been selected and trialled specifically in the UK, rather than being adapted from overseas formulas.

This regional focus means it’s well matched to the crops, soils, and environmental conditions encountered by British farmers – giving it a clear performance edge.”

Bridging the gap

Over five growing seasons, independent UK field trials and farmer-led trials have recorded average yield increases of 5%, with even more pronounced benefits under challenging conditions like drought stress.

Recent collaborative trials with the University of Nottingham have also highlighted the product’s potential to support natural disease resistance.

In winter wheat, plants treated with Surge showed up to 50% less yellow rust and reduced fusarium infection within three weeks of sowing compared to untreated controls.

Researchers attributed this to the ability of Bacillus strains to activate plant defence signalling and trigger production of protective proteins.

Promoting sustainability is also a key part of Surge’s appeal. The microbial strains are known to aid phosphorus solubilisation and biological nitrogen activity, reducing reliance on synthetic inputs.

Importantly, the product is compatible with conventional fungicide and nutrition-based seed treatments, offering flexibility for integrated use.

Surge is available through your local seed house or agricultural merchant and growers interested in the technology are encouraged to speak with Fielder Nutrition’s team for more details:

• robert@fieldernutrition.com
• 01743 860924

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Colin Bartram, business development manager of automatic sheeting system specialists Shur-Co UK, has explained how farmers can keep themselves safe and compliant.  

Colin told Farmers Guide a little of the backstory behind the company: “Shur-Co UK has been supplying the UK market for nearly 30 years with automatic sheeting systems to the construction tipper market, and we remain market leader to this day with an estimated 20,000 sheeting systems in service and many hundreds entering the market each year.”  

He added that the agricultural side of the business started some years later with specialist industries such as poultry litter companies and carcass disposal vehicles (following the foot-and-mouth crisis) and grew year on year to include silage waggons, potato and sugar beet trailers, dumpers and more.   

“What we are seeing now, however, is a widespread enforcement by the DVSA of the Road Traffic Act, and this is driving a widespread retrofitting of sheeting systems onto farm trailers of all kinds,” Colin added.  

What sheeting systems are available?  

For farmers looking for a simple front-to-rear flip net style system, the Agri-Flip kit is available off the shelf at Shur-Co in both hydraulic and 12V electric options.   

“This system is our most popular currently, as it allows farmers to purchase a kit with full instructions and install the equipment themselves relatively easily,” said Colin.  

“The system is either operated via our Bluetooth Smart3 remote control for electric or via the tractor switch if hydraulic. Reliable spring-loaded arms power a steel framework up and over the load, and the tarp motor spool opens the cover.   

“We also pleat the tarp to ensure it hugs the load and allows the motor to pull it into the trailer. Shur-Co UK ensures that our systems are supplied with overload protection as standard, whether that be in the form of a relay box for 12V electric or flow restrictors/controls for hydraulic.”  

The company also offers a side to side rollover option for those who require a waterproof cover with its Agri-Hydroclear system from Dawbarn (part of the Shur-Co Group).

It uses straps and hydraulic motors to reliably cover/uncover your load using just two quick connectors from the tractor and even an electric cable-driven front-to-rear bow slide system in the form of the Shur-Trak that keeps the tailgate free for tipping high and bulky loads.  

How quickly does an automatic system cover the trailer?  

Sheeting systems are not only safer, but also quicker. At the push of a button, you can cover your load in around 20 seconds, which, when looked at alongside manual covering, would save around five to 10 minutes.  

It is also worth noting that covered trailers are proven to reduce drag, saving on diesel costs for those farmers travelling longer distances.  

How do I get a sheeting system installed?  

Although the Agri-Flip is supplied in a fully adjustable kit with instructions (the only item Shur-Co do not supply as standard is hydraulic hoses), Shur-Co UK have an on-site installation team and an enviable dealer network that can be relied upon for installation and support.   

An Agri-Flip installation is usually complete the same day, and the team will often install multiple units during a site visit.  

Shur-Co UK also have installation workshops in Rochester, Kent, and Wisbech, Cambridgeshire, available for the full range of fitting services.  

Do you need a bespoke tarpaulin? Do you need a cover for your trailer or hopper? Any size or shape – call Shur-Co UK today: 01634 862363 or visit the Shur-Co UK website.

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Carl Scott, chair of the United Kingdom Onshore Pipeline Operators Association’s (UKOPA) Pipeline Infringement Working Group, outlines advice and good practices when installing land drains, clearing ditches, or undertaking other works near buried pipelines.

There are more than 27,000km of buried pipelines across the UK, used to carry a range of products at high pressures of up to 100 bar.

The pipelines are used to safely transport flammable and potentially explosive substances such as oil, natural gas, ethylene, and petroleum, as well as less obviously hazardous materials like water.

If damaged, they pose a serious risk to both people and the environment and repair costs can run into the millions of pounds.

Vital safety information

To remain safe, before undertaking any work within 50m of high-pressure pipelines, landowners must contact the pipeline operator especially when pipelines may be at shallow depths.

Operators can then provide the landowner with vital safety information and support, including visiting the site to clearly mark the pipeline’s location, helping ensure the work can proceed safely.

It is also the landowner’s responsibility to ensure that all contractors, employees, and temporary workers are made aware of pipeline locations and safety measures before starting any work.

Certain agricultural activities pose significant risks to buried pipelines – particularly drainage installation, repairs, and ditch clearing.

These operations often involve heavy machinery that can encroach dangerously close to underground pipelines, which are typically buried at a nominal depth of around 1m. However, in some cases, they may be located at even shallower depths.

To safeguard both landowners and pipelines, anyone planning work such as ditching, fencing, digging, or mole ploughing within 3m of a buried pipeline are legally required to first obtain permission from the pipeline operator. This isn’t to restrict work, but to ensure it is carried out safely.

Know before you dig

Before starting any work, it is essential that landowners and contractors are aware of buried pipelines in the vicinity. Using services like Line Search Before U Dig (LSBUD) can also help ensure landowners have the latest information.

If there is a pipeline within 50m of the proposed works, pipeline operators request to be notified of any works so they can provide safety advice and support, including providing maps, safety guidance, and even visit the site to mark out the exact location of pipelines.

The locations of pipelines are normally indicated by marker posts at the edges of fields; however, marker posts can be accidentally moved or damaged, and pipelines may not run in a straight line between posts and aerial markers.

To help ensure the best and safest outcomes for all, farmers or contractors are advised not to undertake any works within 3m of a buried pipeline without following the guidance below:

• Give pipeline operators sufficient notice before works begin so they can provide the necessary support
• Do not proceed with works until consent is given by the pipeline operator
• Never assume the route or depth of pipeline
• Be aware that pipeline depths vary and can often be found less than 1m below the surface
• Remember pipelines do not always run in straight lines between marker posts
• Be aware that other safety-critical infrastructure, such as cables, valve chambers and standpipes, can be buried along the pipeline lengths; these can be found at even shallower depths than the pipeline.

Legal requirements

Damage to pipelines can pose a significant risk to life, as well as potentially serious environmental damage if a product is released.

It can also lead to prosecution by the HSE as Regulation 15 of the Pipelines Safety Regulations Act states: ‘No person shall cause such damage to a pipeline as may give rise to dangers to persons.’

Working near pipelines without taking the correct precautions can have serious consequences and could lead to potential prosecution.  It is the landowner’s responsibility to ensure that employees, contractors and others operating on their land also comply with regulations.

To support those working in the agricultural sector, UKOPA offers a range of educational resources including a Working Safely Near Pipelines video, which provides a clear visual overview of what to do and what to avoid.

There is also an online ‘Working Safely Course’ available for employees or those working on farm which is an essential learning tool for anyone planning or conducting work near buried pipelines. Both resources are available via the UKOPA website.

Safety on farm remains critically important, not just during Farm Safety Week, but every day.

If you have any questions about a pipeline on your land, contact your pipeline operator who is there to help.

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Rachel Banks, technical manager at Bayer, recommends a diverse herbicide programme to maximise control.

Effective integrated weed management starts with cultural controls to reduce the size of the weed seedbank. But once the crop is drilled, the herbicide programme takes centre stage with residual herbicides at pre-em and follow-up applications.

Diversity is key. Use different actives within the programme to improve control and manage resistance.

Each active is unique. Factor in the mode of action (MoA), root or shoot activity, and longevity to make a balanced herbicide programme that copes with variable conditions and delivers high levels of control.

Strong start to the programme

An effective pre-em sets the standard for the season, so it’s important to start strong.

Metribuzin co-forms like Alternator® Met, Octavian® Met and Cadou® Met contain three different MoAs with root and shoot activity. Including Proclus® adds a fourth MoA to improve control and increase longevity in the programme.

Also, it is less reliant on soil moisture for efficacy than many other actives, so it will be even more valuable this autumn if dry conditions continue.

This combination of proven herbicides offers excellent control of black-grass, Italian ryegrass and brome species with the flexibility to follow up with more chemistry in the toughest situations.

Graph 1: Excellent Italian ryegrass control

Graph 2: Good black-grass control – use in a tight sequence with other chemistry for maximum effect

Root or shoot activity

The most effective herbicide programmes have a combination of root and shoot activity to attack weeds in different ways.

Herbicides like flufenacet, metribuzin and cinmethylin are more soluble and move through the soil for uptake by the roots of germinating weeds. Make sure there is sufficient soil moisture and a good quality seedbed without impermeable barriers for these actives to perform at their best.

Proclus® and diflufenican are not mobile – they remain at the soil surface. Weeds take in these herbicides as the shoots emerge out of the soil.

Less reliant on soil moisture for efficacy, aim for consistent coverage across the field to form a protective layer on the surface. A fine, firm seedbed free of clods helps with this.

Protection throughout autumn

The pre-em controls weeds which germinate due to disturbance from drilling. But further germination is a problem too, earlier drilled crops and Italian ryegrass are situations where continued protection is very important.

Each active degrades at a different rate so it controls germinating weeds for different lengths of time. Be sure to include herbicides with good longevity like Proclus® in the programme.

In general, all actives degrade more quickly in warm and moist conditions. Herbicides applied later in autumn, after delayed drilling for example, have better longevity because of cooler weather.

Topping up is another way to build in more protection. A second or even third herbicide application controls subsequent weed germination. If expecting protracted germination of Italian ryegrass, plan to come back 2–4 weeks after the pre-em.

For black-grass, we normally recommend a short gap of 1–2 weeks for any follow up spray because black-grass germination is far more concentrated around early/mid-October.

What is a MoA?

The MoA is the chemical basis for how a herbicide kills a weed. Different herbicides can have the same MoA. For example, prosulfocarb, tri-allate and flufenacet all inhibit cells from making very long-chain fatty acids, disrupting cell division. They’re all in the Herbicide Resistance Action Committee (HRAC) Group 15.

In contrast, diflufenican is in Group 12 as it inhibits an enzyme phytoene desaturase, which is important in photosynthesis.

For autumn, there are six different MoAs available for the residual programme; HRAC Groups 3, 5, 12, 15, 30, 32. Growers can also use contact-acting chemistry after weed emergence, Atlantis® OD contains mesosulfuron + iodosulfuron, both from HRAC Group 2.

For resistance management, use actives from different HRAC MoA groups and avoid using any active in the programme more than once.

How MoA diversity improves control

Bayer has done trials in conjunction with NIAB to measure the benefit of more MoAs in the programme. Normally trials look at products at full rate, which is how farmers use them and what we generally recommend for resistance management.

But these trials don’t easily show if control is thanks to diverse MoA or just the effect of applying more herbicide in total. The trial with NIAB was designed to split out these two variables.

Two years of trials showed that MoA diversity improved efficacy. The effect was more pronounced in Italian ryegrass than black-grass.

In practical terms it means that mode of action diversity is not just about long-term stewardship but about better short-term control too. In addition to chemical controls, cultural controls also stack together to increase efficacy.

The starting point was an untreated September drilled crop. Next, higher seed rates were tested, then October drilling and higher seed rates.

Shifting to October drilling had a huge impact on overall control. On top of cultural controls, a single active programme was compared to diverse modes of action. Control from the diverse programme was far superior.

Graph 3: Stacking controls for Italian rye-grass control

Broadleaf weeds

Check broadleaf weed activity of specific herbicides to match the problem in your field.

A metribuzin co-form like Alternator® Met, Octavian® Met and Cadou® Met + Proclus® has activity on some of the most serious broadleaf weeds including cleavers, groundsel and mayweed.

Safe application – best practice

Root-acting herbicides can affect crops too. Drilling depth and quality is very important to keep herbicides away from crop roots.

• Drill to at least 32mm
• Closed slots with no exposed seed
• Avoid applications when heavy rain is forecast
• Be cautious on lighter soils
• Sequences are safer than large tank-mixes.

All other brand names used are Trademarks of other manufacturers in which proprietary rights may exist. Use plant protection products safely. Always read the label and product information before use. Pay attention to the risk indications and follow the safety precautions on the label. For further information, including contact details, visit the Bayer website or call 0808 1969522.

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As the annual Farm Safety Week (21st–25th July) kicks off, the latest figures from the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) show 23 farm worker deaths were recorded in 2024/25.

An additional five farm workers lost their lives in Northern Ireland during the same period, bringing the total number of farm-related worker fatalities across the UK to 28.

Four members of the public including two children also lost their lives in farming accidents in the same period. Both children had accidents while using ATVs. 

Being killed by moving or overturning vehicles is again the main cause of fatality in the industry in 2024/25. 

Farm Safety Week is run by UK charity The Farm Safety Foundation (Yellow Wellies) and brings attention to the dangers farmers face every day growing food for the nation. 

In an industry that accounts for 1% of the working population, farming accounts for nearly 20% of all workplace deaths – this gives farming the poorest safety record of any occupation in the UK.  

Meaningful progress

While the agricultural sector has long been associated with high rates of injury and ill health, recent data suggests that meaningful progress is being made in improving farm safety.  

Historically, the industry has faced alarming figures, with over 23,000 reported cases of long-term ill-health and serious injuries. However, there are now signs of a positive shift with the number of long-term ill health and serious injuries falling to 18,000.  

Furthermore, according to rural insurer NFU Mutual, the number of farm accident claims in the UK dropped from 937 in 2023/24 to 894 in 2024/25. Though modest, this decline is a welcome indication that safety initiatives and awareness campaigns may be starting to have an impact. 

Risk taking and complacency 

Despite the encouraging reduction in claims and reported injuries, the causes of farm accidents remain consistent and concerning. 

Incidents involving moving vehicles, falls from height, slips and trips, and trapped body parts continue to dominate the statistics. In the past year alone, these types of accidents cost rural insurer NFU Mutual over £48 million.  

Yellow Wellies continues to emphasise that reducing serious and fatal injuries is only part of the challenge. The charity highlights the need to address an underlying culture of risk-taking and complacency.

Research carried out by The Farm Safety Foundation revealed that 81% of farmers in the UK believe that ‘complacency’ – always having it done that way – is a major contributor to having a farm accident while 82% cite ‘attitude’ as the major contributor.  

Stephanie Berkeley, Farm Safety Foundation manager explains: “‘I’ve always done it that way’ is a phrase we hear all too often.  

“Although confidence built over years on the land is a strength, it can also become a blind spot. When you start to underestimate the dangers of the vehicles, equipment and animals we know so well, we risk letting routine turn deadly. Experience should guide caution, not excuse it.”

Whilst attitudes are changing, the pace is too slow for families who have lost loved ones in preventable accidents, and those living with chronic pain, long-term illness, or life-altering injuries.

“We cannot accept this as the cost of doing business,” she added.

READ MORE: Farmers encouraged to take part in #Take5StayAlive campaign
READ MORE: New towing alliance launches to improve safety across UK

Partnership with Australian counterparts 

This year, the charity has broadened the scope of the campaign and is working with their antipodean counterparts – Farmsafe Australia – to share stories, learnings and make a joint call for simple changes to save lives. 

Stevi Howdle, executive officer at Farmsafe Australia said: “Farm safety doesn’t stop at our fencelines. By working together globally, as advocates, researchers and industry leaders, we’re able to share lessons, spot trends, and better understand which challenges are uniquely environmental, and which ones are part of a bigger global story.  

“That collaboration strengthens all of us. It means we can respond with sharper insights, smarter strategies and a shared commitment to making farming safer for everyone, everywhere.”

Thirteen years of heartbreak  

Concluding, Stephanie made a heartfelt plea to farmers: “This is year 13 of Farm Safety Week. Thirteen years of stories. Thirteen years of heartbreak. Thirteen years of lives changed forever. 

“And still, too many are relying on luck to get home safe. Luck is not a safety strategy. It’s not a plan. It’s not enough. 

“So here’s my plea… to everyone working and living in the industry: please, stop and reflect. Look at your daily routine, your equipment, your mindset. Ask yourself, what can I do today to make my farm safer? For myself. For my family. For the people who work with me. 

“Change doesn’t happen overnight. It starts with one decision, one action, one conversation. We owe it to those we have lost. We owe it to those still living with the consequences. And we owe it to the next generation of farmers in the UK and Ireland and beyond.” 

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The FFIS arrives at a pivotal moment for the agricultural sector as it transitions towards more sustainable and efficient practices.

The scheme offers farmers and crofters up to 100% funding for capital investments to support environmental efficiency and climate-related outcomes.

Nofence is particularly pleased to see virtual fencing recognised as an eligible capital item, broadening access to a technology that is already transforming how livestock are managed across the UK.

This marks another positive step by the Scottish Government in creating opportunities for virtual fencing adoption, following its earlier inclusion in the Crofting Agricultural Grants Scheme (CAGS).

Efficient livestock management

Nofence virtual fencing offers an innovative solution that works through a GPS-enabled collar that is connected to an easy-to-use mobile app via cellular network, allowing farmers to set and adjust virtual boundaries, the company explains.

This system enables farmers to precisely control grazing practices without the challenge of physical barriers – a scalable and adaptable system effective for both farmers and crofters.

By removing labour-intensive tasks, virtual fencing provides greater flexibility and oversight, freeing up valuable time to focus on other farm activities as well as supporting a more balanced and sustainable work-life routine.

For Rory Fyfe, who leads the Rewilding Kinkell Project and manages Kinkell Byre, an integrated farm wedding venue near St Andrews, Nofence virtual fencing technology has opened up new possibilities – not just for farming, but for community, ecology, and education.

He says: “The collars have worked very well for us. They make it easy to manage the cows and move them around, which is crucial in such a complex landscape with cliffs, paths, and public access. And the public can now see where the cows are through an online access tool, which has been great for local walkers and visitors.”

A more inclusive path to farming

Virtual fencing is not only changing how livestock are managed but also opens access to ecologically valuable landscapes that would ordinarily be impossible to fence.

Areas like steep slopes, coastal paths, woodlands, and conservation sites hold huge potential for biodiversity gain when managed through virtual fencing.

Often, livestock grazing is labour-intensive and time-consuming, but these tasks are now simplified by virtual fencing, enabling farmers to graze more land efficiently.

The Rewilding Kinkell Project is a prime example of this in action. By integrating conservation grazing with a wedding venue, the project not only operates productively but also delivers significant environmental benefits.

Mr Fyfe explains: “It’s a big collaboration to graze this area for the benefit of biodiversity, and we’ve been using Nofence collars with great success.”

Nofence has long believed that technology that benefits nature is pivotal to the future of farming, and virtual fencing is playing a key role in shaping this future –  one that delivers for farm businesses, improves environmental outcomes, and enhances the well-being of farmers themselves and the animals they care for.

The FFIS represents a major step by the Scottish Government to support farmers in making confident, forward-looking investments in farming.

The application window for the scheme will open on 14th July 2025 and close on 22nd August 2025, with full guidance and application details available on the Scottish Government’s Rural Payments and Services website.

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More and more farms are turning wasted space into a simple, stress-free self-storage business – could this low maintenance business idea work for you?

Setting up a self-storage business doesn’t need to be a big endeavour or come with a huge financial outlay, instead it can grow when you have the demand.

It requires a few key things on a farm: good access, hard-standing, plus a reliable supply of shipping containers – this final element is where Container People Storage can come in.

For decades, this small, family business has helped farmers set up successful self-storage enterprises that grow at a pace suited to the farm in question. These side hustles often start with one or two shipping containers, with more ordered when a new customer comes along. Over time, a farm can create a successful self-storage setup that results in a sizeable income.

Paul, co-founder of Container People Storage, says: “The beauty of starting a self-storage business is it’s adaptable to any budget and set up. You don’t need big buildings to house the shipping containers, they’re made to be transported across oceans, so the rain and wind won’t bother them. All you really need is a suitable piece of land and good access.”

So, how can you make this work for your farm?

Key considerations

The site: Is the ground level and hardstanding, otherwise the doors on the shipping container might warp over time. There could also be delivery issues as the haulage vehicles are heavy.

Dimensions: What size suits you? Containers are available as 10, 20 or 40ft, they’re all 8ft 6ins high and 8ft wide.

Security: Containers all have lockboxes for padlocks, which you can supply to customers. But will you have gates that can be locked, ensuring you’re in control of who comes and goes?

Costs: Rental costs from Container People Storage start at £10 per week +VAT. Self-storage costs charged by farms, are far higher – take a look to see what people charge locally to get an idea of what you could charge. 

Outlay: If you rent containers from Container People Storage, you would need to pay the return haulage upfront and then a monthly rental invoice per unit. If you can take two containers at a time, the haulage cost is better value. Used containers aren’t pristine but are cheaper – an option worth considering.

Insurance: Public liability insurance will be needed to protect you and anyone visiting your site.

Paul says: “We recommend 20ft containers as they are the best value to rent, buy and in terms of haulage. I also suggest starting small and building up over time when the demand is there. You don’t need 20 containers on day one, you can add new containers to your site when demand picks up.

“We’ve seen this method work out so well for farmers in the past. Some start out renting from us and then buy the containers when they’ve built up funds. But some rent long term as it is more convenient.”

If this sounds like it could work for your farm, you can get in touch with Container People Storage for more information on 07812 374 290 or head to its website and send your details.

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At the Royal Welsh Show on Avenue F stand 535, Can-Am will be showcasing a selection of key models from its off-road line-up, designed to handle a multitude of applications without missing a beat, spearheaded by the Can-Am Outlander PRO HD7.

The Can-Am Outlander PRO HD7 puts out 50hp and 41ft-lb of torque, so travelling across multiple terrains is now easier and more efficient.

This ATV has also been designed with versatility in mind, boasting a maximum towing capacity of 830kg, which means all the equipment for the day can be towed around, so there is no need to head back to site to restock.

In addition, the Can-Am Outlander BASE HD5 has been developed by the Can-Am R&D team as a work-ready vehicle that combines comfort and performance.

This ATV has ergonomic seats, so long days in the seat are made easy. The consistent performance comes with the help of class-leading power from the all-new Rotax engine, ground clearance, suspension travel, towing and rack capacity.

Furthermore, with the help of the accessory range, each ATV can be customised with accessories equipped with the Can-Am proprietary LinQ system, which be removed in seconds and new accessories added, enabling users to complete the jobs they are performing.

Complementing the ATVs on display will be Can-Am’s SSV line-up, which includes the Can-Am Traxter HD9 and HD10 XU. These vehicles provide users with consistent performance, and both can stay out in the field for longer with the help of their 40-litre fuel tanks.  

Highlighting ATV and SSV security

Can-Am will also be highlighting the importance of ATV and SSV security, highlighted by NFU Mutual’s rural crime report, which records that these vehicles are consistently one of the most targeted in the countryside.

To combat this issue, Can-Am will be talking to attendees about ways they can protect their vehicles and the benefits of Can-Am’s Digitally Encoded Security System (D.E.S.S.) Key, which restricts access to the bike’s electronic ignition system.

The police rural crime team will also be available on the stand throughout the show.

Connecting with people

Rachael Turner, BRP commercial manager UK and Ireland, says: “We’re thrilled to be back at the Royal Welsh Show this year. The event is the perfect place for us to connect with people who rely on hard-working vehicles day in, day out, and it provides us with the perfect platform to showcase the breadth of the Can-Am line-up.

“With such a wide range of ATVs and SSVs on display, we know there really is something for every job and we’re excited to show how our ATVs and SSVs go above and beyond expectations.

“With such engaged attendees, we also believe it is important that we shine a spotlight on vehicle security, which is a growing concern in the rural arena, and explain what we as a business are doing to help keep machines secure as well as highlight technology, such as the D.E.S.S. key system that has been developed to give the end user peace of mind when it comes to the security of their vehicle.”

For more information, visit https://uk.brp.com/off-road/.

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Given the current climate within the UK farming industry, Woodpecker Tubs says it is helping to change the landscape to ensure farms are able to grow and develop – especially when they are downsizing or even leaving the industry due to restrictions and taxation burdens.

For many at this time, it is the end of the road, which is incredibly sad when there have been multi-generational farmers on the same sites for a very long time.

That said, it shouldn’t be about what the current landscape looks like – but more about how you can make a ‘value for money return’ on your future investments, without having to worry about excessive effort, or whether your yield from crops or animals will be enough to survive now or in the years ahead.

Sustainability

So how can Woodpecker Tubs help out? The answer is simpler than you think, the company reckons.

It supports farmers right across the UK with their enquiries about hot tubs, saunas and accommodation units, change of uses for farming, setting up glamping operations, offering mixed operations where farmers still farm and run the glamping operations as a side entity.

This means they are able to grow and still earn a valuable income stream which makes everything more sustainable, not only for themselves, but for the future of the farm and farming industry, which is constantly evolving on a daily basis.

Importantly for the team at Woodpecker, it also has its own sustainability angle in terms of its production methods. The company says its products are virtually carbon neutral, and it uses only the best wood available to ensure that it meets and exceeds the needs of its customers and provides a high level of quality on a consistent basis.

Whether customers want to design their own bespoke range for their sites, or want Woodpecker to develop one of its existing products to suit their particular needs, nothing is impossible. Especially when the company creates, designs and develops its products with customers and end consumers in mind.

Furthermore, it is important that it tries to help customers and potential customers by having almost a ‘one stop shop’ offering for everyone to explore – whether they want to set up a glamping operation, have their own cottage or farm buildings as part of an Airbnb or similar offering, or they are alternatively looking to diversify into becoming a ‘partner’ with Woodpecker and offer its products.

Industry knowledge

The company is also proud to be able to offer customers extras that include industry knowledge.

It is part of the Glamping Industry Trade Association (GITA UK founding members) as well as having other services including partnerships with a shepherd hut company based in Lincolnshire, and advisory services when it comes to planning support and guidance.

Plus, the added benefit of almost 20 years’ experience within the industry enabling the company to support the diversification efforts of farmers regardless of where they are on their farming journeys.

Proper planning

Woodpecker says: “The most important thing that we say to farmers who are looking at changing or diversifying away from a full scale farming operation is that it needs to be planned properly by making sure that you have spoken to the local council and their planners, sought advice from the proper channels in terms of planning advisors, and then decided what is finally possible.

“You don’t want to overspend on products, nor do you want to have poor quality products, which there are many of in the hot tub, sauna and accommodation products market.

“With us, because we are not a reseller, and are manufacturers, you definitely won’t be overpaying for anything, as there is ‘no middle chunk’ to pay, and therefore you really are getting a ‘value for money’ service.”

To find out more visit: www.woodpeckertubs.co.uk.

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A well-known face at farming shows, contractor and Diddly Squat farm manager Kaleb has relaunched his website with some new additions.

Highlighting the new website, Ioan Humphries, known on social media as That Welsh Farmer, said:

“He’s got some cool stuff on there; you can buy some Kaleb Cooper Contracting merchandise – I haven’t got any because apparently I’m not cool enough, even though I drive a black Deutz.

“But also he’s got meat boxes so you can buy locally sourced meat straight off the website and it’ll be delivered to your door.”

The Kaleb Cooper Contracting website now includes branded leather keyrings, bookmarks, beanies and caps, as well as a range of BBQ boxes and produce including: lamb and mint sausages, lamb steaks and chops, minced beef, matured fillet steak, rump steak, rib eye steak, sirloin steak, and Aberdeen angus beef burgers. 

READ MORE: Kaleb Cooper brings his own bar to county show
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Kaleb’s contracting services include drilling and planting, mowing and foraging, land preparation and cultivation, slurry tanking/nurse tanking, spraying, muck heap removals, muck spreading, combining, heavy machinery services, hedge cutting and baling. 

The Oxfordshire-based contractor began rearing hens at age 13, bought his first tractor at 15 and launched his contracting business at 16 – before shooting to fame as Jeremy Clarkson’s farm manager on Clarkson’s Farm in 2021.

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