The farmland market continues to be quiet, with ongoing political and economic uncertainty constraining both the amount of land coming forward and the number of transactions, according to land and property specialists Strutt & Parker.

Since the start of the year just 56,300 acres has been publicly marketed in England, which is the smallest amount in the last 10 years.

The figures are from Strutt & Parker’s Farmland Database which records the details of blocks of marketed farmland over 100 acres in size.

The number of farms for sale is down in all regions, apart from in the South West of England.

Supply is particularly low in the East Midlands, East of England and the North West.

“Less than 16,000 acres of land has been publicly launched in England over the past three months,” says Strutt & Parker’s head of estates & farm agency Michael Fiddes.

“This means that across the whole of 2019, supply is down more than 40% against 2018 levels. It is looking like Q4 will also be quiet.

“However, this significant drop in supply is acting as a counterbalance to weaker demand – particularly from farmers needing to borrow to fund an acquisition – keeping average prices relatively static.”

Demand

Mr Fiddes says that while there are generally fewer active buyers in the marketplace than at the peak of the market, demand has not dropped by as much as supply.

57% of the land marketed in the first six months of 2019 has already sold or is currently under offer. This is the same proportion as had sold at this time in 2018 (56%).

Demand remains strongest for bigger farms and weakest for smaller ones (between £750k – £1.5m).

One new development is that overseas buyers, particularly from Europe, have become more active in the UK market, taking advantage of the relative weakness in the value of sterling.

Pricing

The relatively small number of sales which completed during Q3 make it difficult to establish reliable average values for the quarter.

The range in prices paid remains wide, with the value being driven by location, rather than the productive capacity of the land itself.

“However, the average price of arable land since the start of the year is £9,100/acre, only marginally lower than it was a year ago and about 15% lower than the Q2 2015 peak of £10,700/acre,” says Mr Fiddes.

“Less land is now selling for £10,000+/ acre and much more at £8,000/acre, however, there are plenty of anomalies. The highest price paid for arable land in Q3 2019 was £14,000/acre, with a low of £6,200/acre.”

Pasture prices have dropped for the first time in 10 years, due to less land selling at £10,000/acre, but it is too early to say if this trend will be sustained. Sales of pasture in Q3 2019 ranged from £5,500/acre to £9,000/acre.

Future

“The drop-off in supply is something that we expected, as we have seen during previous rounds of common Agricultural Policy (CAP) reforms that where there is uncertainty, there tends to be a fall in the amount of land marketed,” says Mr Fiddes.

“In view of this, there is a chance that more land will come to the market in 2020 when there should be more certainty about future policy, but the significant variation in prices will continue.”

From the outside there isn’t a great lot different about New Holland’s latest T8 offering compared with previous models. But just a quick glance inside the cab makes it clear that the R&D team has been very busy. David Williams tried it out.

New Holland’s concept autonomous tractor did the rounds at UK shows a few years ago, with a futuristic cab incorporating bright-lit digital displays shouting about what tractors of the future might look like. Now the future is here and the ‘T8 Genesis with PLM Intelligence’ Horizon cab shares many characteristics with the experimental machine, including large, brightly coloured crystal clear displays that will appeal to operators.

The latest T8 line-up includes 5 models from 320–435hp (max EPM) and, like the previous range, the target market is larger arable farms and contractors, many of who will already be using precision farming technology to optimise efficiency of operations.

Most upgrades inside

From the outside, along with new decals, the most obvious indication that the tractor is the latest model is the lack of a B-pillar on the left side of the cab. Removing this has allowed a larger door for improved cab access.

Central locking is available using a new remote key which also incorporates a coded immobiliser. A master key can be programmed to access and start a whole fleet of the farm’s tractors while other operator keys can have access to different tractors allowed or denied.

The cab frame is similar to before, but a complete redesign resulting from user consultation includes extra storage for large items as well as odds and ends. The cab floor includes shaped compartments which prevent loose items rolling about.

With increasing use of electric-powered accessories there are a large number of 12-volt power points as well as USB-charging connectors. To the side of the driver’s seat in a large storage compartment, there is even a 240-volt socket likely to be popular with those who need to charge laptops during the working day.

With a nod to its American heritage the new T8 Genesis has leather upholstery similar to traditional American lorries or pick-ups, which is functional but extremely comfortable.

Heating and ventilation are upgraded with programmable zone control and additional vents.

Another update is improved semi-active cab suspension. Actuators under each side of the cab adjust the firmness of the ride while a large anti-roll torsion bar at the rear keeps the cab level.

Excellent visibility

Both rear view mirrors are on telescopic arms – allowing extension for use with high trailers and retraction to prevent damage when the extra length isn’t needed, using a switch in the cab. Front and rear cameras are standard and up to two additional cameras can be specified linked direct to the screen for implement or trailer monitoring. The front camera has a 170-degree field of vision, increasing safety for those emerging from fields on to a road through a hedge for example, where the view to the sides would otherwise be impaired.

For those working at night, 30 per cent extra lighting performance is available. New Holland T7, T8 and T9 product marketing manager for Europe, Darragh Mullin, talked Farmers Guide through the new model’s features and benefits, and he explained that the optional top specification 360-degree LED light package is currently the most popular lighting upgrade. However, an even more powerful 49,400-lumen light set for the new Genesis models is expected to prove even more popular.

Future potential

Traditionally New Holland has been closely aligned with Trimble for its display and guidance hardware but the new IntelliView 12 terminals for the T8 Genesis were designed in-house and use an Android operating system. This has given New Holland a free hand to incorporate any features it needs and, although the demonstration machine terminal included many new functions, developments continue and there is the potential for upgrades later – many of which remain secret for now.

Darragh explained that as use of precision farming technology increases, it’s likely that communication within a local network, including other machines in the field, will be the priority, while telematics for remote task monitoring and management will also be increasingly important. “Although full autonomous operation might be some way off yet, it’s likely that we will see linked machines working together much sooner, perhaps within just a few years. Examples would be a leader and follower situation for machines engaged in field work, or a tractor and trailer controlled automatically while a combine unloads.”

The amount of data required to allow ‘decisions’ to be made by the system in operations of this type is huge, and the new T8 has four Canbus networks rather than two on previous models. The main display is integral to the tractor and not intended to be swapped between machines, which suggests that New Holland sees it as the tractor’s brain rather than an accessory. With massive potential for upgrading in future, could these tractors be capable of fully autonomous operation as development of systems and legislation continues? Darragh didn’t agree or disagree but stated that it’s safe to assume the new T8 Genesis has the ‘building blocks’ for future autonomous operation if and when it becomes viable.

Operator friendly

A new SideWinder Ultra armrest is customisable, and divided into 3 areas with functions required 85 per cent of the time accessed through the Command Grip multi-function joystick. Those needed less often are adjacent on the main console and those used only 5 per cent of the time are in a strip further to the right. There are quick access buttons for 2 pre-set engine speeds, diff lock and 4wd, 5 configurable remotes which all incorporate easily-set locking functions, and up to 11 buttons which can be programmed with specific functions to suit user preference and applications.

A handy new feature making it easier to select and control hydraulic valve functions is the ability to configure and colour-code each switch to suit the task. The switches change colour to indicate the selected function and each can be configured for five function areas, with additional options available within each function menu.

The increased customisation, with many controls capable of multi-tasking, has resulted in 17 per cent fewer buttons and switches than previously, and the cab feels less cluttered than before.

All telephone controls are on the armrest, heat and ventilation settings are also conveniently to hand, and a new linkage control design in the form of a fixed computer ‘mouse’ for both front and rear linkages is also included. The mouse is palm-shaped with buttons and a scroll selector and allows all linkage functions to be controlled without the operator repositioning his hand.

To the right of the mouse is a smaller joystick which includes forward/reverse shuttle selector buttons, gear shift or range selector buttons as well as 2 configurable buttons.

The new Command Grip joystick design includes 20 per cent more buttons than before, and is now Isobus- and vehicle-configurable.

Isobus Class 3 is also available for the first time on T8 models allowing tractor control by implement and additional complex functions.

Obviously significant investment in hardware development has been made, and Darragh confirmed that, although the new T8-series have been selected as the first to have it, other tractors in the range will have it in future and it will also appear on New Holland machines such as harvesters.

A simplified form of the system through a retro-fit IntelliView 12 display will be available for other brands for maximum compatibility across a farm or contracting fleet.

Simpler hardware

Previous models had a separate GPS receiver, navigation controller and modem, but New Holland’s new GPS system is reduced to just two components making it simpler and easier to swap between machines.

New Holland claims an advantage of the new guidance hardware is that, because it is supplied and maintained through the New Holland main dealer, it’s easier to gain after-sales service and advice.

Increased compatibility with up to nine GPS satellite networks helps future-proof the system and will ensure accuracy in almost any location. N-Trip network compatibility provides accurate guidance by phone signal without a base station, but for those with RTK the new system is also fully compatible.

Maximum uptime

Meeting Stage 5 emissions regulations has been achieved through a larger catalyst chamber and without EGR or increased Adblue use. The fuel and Adblue tanks of the latest T8 are identical to its predecessor.

Servicing is every 600 hours as on previous models.

A handy new feature is self-calibration of auto-steer. All that is required is to set auto-calibration mode on the display, drive 100m in one direction and back again, and calibration is complete.

The latest track assemblies on SmartTrax half-track models have bolt-on rollers making replacement easier and the new rollers are also available to retro-fit to existing tractors. Rubber tracks are by Camso but New Holland is currently trialling Soucy tracks with a view to offering users an option.

Remote assistance services

New Holland Intelliview Connect is a service allowing the tractor operator to share his Intelliview display with a supervisor or dealer when requested, for assistance or problem solving.

Remote diagnostics allows the tractor’s systems to be checked for faults and, if the problem is caused by a setting error or software issue, there is the opportunity to correct it remotely at the time, or if parts are needed then the necessary component can be identified and an engineer can bring it for fitting, potentially saving a diagnostic visit. Remote firmware updates are also available wirelessly.

Maintenance requirements and fault notifications can also be monitored, allowing the dealer and user to schedule servicing and minimise downtime.

Practical test-drive

The flagship T8 Genesis 435 SmartTrax was working away from public view on a large Oxfordshire estate, with a Vaderstad Carrier cultivator on post-harvest cereal stubble which gave plenty of opportunity to try setting up and using the new control and guidance systems.

The in-house designed main IntelliView 12 terminal has working logic similar to a tablet and proved easy to use with simple menus accessed by touching the screen. Along the top of the display is an information bar with clear icons indicating which functions are selected and in use. The practical design doesn’t only include operation by screen touch which can be tricky on bumpy ground. Positive operation by quick-access buttons on the SideWinder Ultra armrest is just as easy to use and there is also control available through a twist dial with click selection.

Interactive

The new display is more interactive than anything seen before and the user can touch the screen to zoom in or out and even rotate the view.

A handy feature is the ability to record screenshots by pressing and holding the camera screen symbol. The images are stored and can be easily shared with others to highlight information of interest from performance data to guidance or Isobus-control images.

For task and machine management the user selects the task by description, then the attachment from a farm-specific drop-down list. Additional implements are easily added when needed. Full dimensions of the implement can be input and displayed for reference and an accurate diagram is shown.

When the operator chooses the task and implement from the menu, the guidance screen displays an image of the tractor and implement together – a clever feature which helps ensure the correct equipment and task have been selected for accurate record keeping.

The new IntelliView 12 display provides very easy set-up of guidance modes and working strategies which means that, with familiarity, just a few minutes is needed at the start of a task or a new field to create an efficient working pattern.

For simultaneous use of the screen for guidance while controlling and monitoring Isobus-compatible implements, the user has the option to select a split screen view.

New dashboard display

The previous A-pillar post display is replaced by Info View. This is a full colour display on the front console, providing essential tractor operating information including travel speed, engine revs, fuel level and temperature. Additional information such as cruise control speed settings are also available at a glance. As well as displaying operational information, a camera feed will also be available in future upgrades, with the digital screen reconfiguring to prioritise the camera image with all other information minimised and relocated.

Verdict

Although the new glowing displays look complex at first, it’s actually very easy to use the menus and work out how to check and change the main settings. The new control layout is excellent and everything is within easy reach. The colour-coded hydraulic controls make it easy to see at a glance which are needed and, if a different colour is preferred, then with a few touches of the screen the change can be made. The front instrument panel with its new Info View display provides most of the tractor performance information needed for the road and in the field and, because there is so much included, there is less need to refer to the main IntelliView 12 display, allowing the operator to keep his eyes to the front.

The new cab is easier to access through the wider opening door and, although the cab is the same size physically as its predecessor, it actually feels larger, mainly due to the revised instruments and control layout. Comfort is excellent and a run along a bumpy farm track emphasised the performance of the new cab suspension, although the luxury leather seats also played their part in the ride quality.

Brake to steer is new on SmartTrax models with customisable steering improving manoeuvrability and turning performance and reducing scuffing during turns.

Looking beyond all the clever functions available on the demonstration tractor, and mindful of the fact that many more remain in development for adding later, the new T8 Genesis PLM Intelligence series is likely to be an attractive long-term investment for professional farmers and contractors. It’s capable of so much more than cultivating stubble with an operator at the wheel and, in future – depending on legislation and industry acceptance, more of its capabilities will hopefully be revealed.

The T8 Genesis models will be unveiled officially at Agritechnica in early November and deliveries to customers will commence in late spring next year.

Improved performance and new features of the latest Case IH Axial-Flow combines are expected to make it easier to establish and grow successful crops on a Romney Marsh farm. David Williams reports.

“We regard harvest as the first cultivation of the subsequent crop,” commented Andrew Cragg who trades as Brooker Farms based at Newchurch in Kent. “Getting that first cultivation right means subsequent operations are easier, and crop establishment is more even.”

Andrew farms approximately 565ha of his own crops including wheat, spring barley, oilseed rape and combine peas, and collaborates with a neighbouring farm, which means the combine can also harvest an additional area of similar crops as well as oats.

All straw is chopped and most crops are established by minimum tillage although ploughing is currently preferred for peas following spring barley, due to peas’ dislike of compaction and the amount of fluffy straw on the surface. Oilseed rape is established direct into stubbles which requires a fine chop from the straw chopper.

The farm was an early adopter of control traffic farming (CTF) and Andrew says this has contributed to an improved soil structure and reduced the need for deep cultivation.

Six years ago, the farm upgraded to a 12.5m (40ft) header, for compatibility with its planned 12–24m CTF regime from a previous 9m (30ft) model. “We wanted to make the most of opportunities offered by CTF and there were limited options for those looking for 12m machines. Several manufacturers offered the header width needed and were keen to help, but the standard unloading augers remained too short which meant corn trailers would have to travel off the tramlines,” explained Andrew. “When we asked about a longer auger at that time the response was generally negative as it was thought the additional weight would be too much for the lower pivot mounting, except for Case IH which agreed to produce us an extended version covered by the full factory warranty. So, we moved away from our previous brand, and bought our first Axial Flow combine from local dealer Ernest Doe Power.”

With the wider header and the amount of straw that had to be processed by the standard straw chopper, residue was sometimes inadequately spread resulting in blocking of cultivators and drills. Andrew discussed the issue with his dealer and Case IH, and a Europe-wide solution was identified in the form of a Canadian-manufactured Redekop MAV chopper which was fitted by Ernest Doe Power. The Redekop attaches to the rear of the combine behind the standard chopper. Special blades produce a powerful air blast which helps blow chopped straw and chaff out to the sides more consistently than the standard chopper. It worked well, providing the solution Andrew needed.

Power and automation

With the Axial Flow 9230 five years old and due for replacement earlier this year, Andrew had no hesitation in investing in the latest 9250 Axial Flow, boasting additional power (634hp max) and extra automation to improve performance and work rates. It also had a larger 14,500-litre grain tank. The extra-long unloading auger was now available as an option on the standard price list and a Redekop MAV Xtra-chopping chopper, now factory fitted, was also selected, based on the performance of the previous unit.

Additional technology on the new Axial Flow includes AFS Harvest Command automation. This uses a network of 16 sensors throughout the machine to monitor performance and, using the information generated, 7 different settings are automatically adjusted to optimise performance based on the selected harvesting strategy.

Three levels of automation include a base version, which simply makes initial settings, but Andrew’s 9250 model has the top AFS Harvest Command system. This includes Feedrate Control which adjusts ground speed based on crop load to meet a desired outcome – performance to control losses; maximum throughput, or fixed throughput. The operator selects maximum engine and travel speeds, and performance is optimised within these limits.

Andrew’s new combine also has a clean grain camera which identifies broken grains and impurities for grain quality monitoring, plus sieve pressure sensors to monitor the cleaning load. These sense impending overloads, allowing the cleaning system to operate at maximum capacity, while also making adjustments when needed to prevent losses before they occur.

Four operating strategies:

Performance – which maximises harvesting rate until grain losses from the rotor or cleaning system exceed pre-set parameters.

Fixed throughput – a target throughput is maintained by varying the travel speed while settings are adjusted to minimise losses.

Maximum throughput – the combine operates up to the speed or power limit set by the operator while adjusting settings to minimise grain losses.

Grain quality mode – settings constantly adjust to maintain targeted grain quality and impurity levels, while also minimising losses.

Auto feed-rate control

Darren said automatic travel speed control is selected most of the time, as it offers advantages in variable conditions, where speed increases in response to areas of thinner crop, and reduces where crop is thicker. During previous harvests he has suffered from shoulder pain after long days using the joystick to vary travel speed, but he said this wasn’t an issue this harvest and puts this down to the automatic speed management which reduces joystick use.

“I usually set the limit at 120 per cent of rated engine power, but aim to maintain a work flow using 100–110 per cent,” he said. “The speed control system is responsive and in patches of very thick crop, forward travel can stop abruptly while the threshing system deals with a sudden influx – but average working speed when crop flow is more even is approximately 5.5–7.0kph, which is quite comfortable with the 12.5m header. When filling a trailer alongside I always select manual speed control though, as sudden changes could cause problems for the trailer drivers.”

Optimise throughput

A new feature on the latest Axial Flow is rotor vane adjustment from the cab allowing the operator, or AFS Harvest Command in automatic mode, to adjust threshing performance for the crop and conditions. Adjusting the vanes to a shallow angle means crop remains in the rotor for longer for aggressive threshing, while a steeper angle moves the crop through more quickly, allowing higher work rates.

Sieve adjustment can also be adjusted manually, or automatically through AFS Harvest Command, in response to information from the loss sensors, grain camera and sieve pressure sensors.

“I’m very impressed with the sample from the new combine,” commented Darren. “The previous model allowed me to set the crop type, and settings were applied automatically after which I checked the sample throughout the day and made fine adjustments, but this does everything itself. I had my preferred settings written down for each crop harvested by the previous Axial Flow and it’s encouraging that the new combine makes almost identical settings in automatic mode. I try to maintain the best sample possible for all crops as that reduces the work load for the grain store. The new combine achieves a better sample whether I make the settings manually, or allow the combine to make them automatically and this year the oilseed rape was the cleanest we have ever seen.”

Higher work rates

Darren has driven combines for 16 years since being employed by Brooker Farms and at the time he joined the team, 2 combines were operated, later reducing to 1. “I like having the automation available as being able to rely on the combine to look after the settings leaves me free to concentrate on what is happening around me, especially when working in difficult conditions or at the headlands,” he explained. “The feature I like most is the automatic speed control. It lets me push the combine to full capacity when conditions are right to get as much harvested as possible without having to worry about overloading the rotor and blocking it. Even though this harvest was generally dry, during the early stages we had few really good harvesting days. Heavy dews held us up in the mornings and light rain showers forced us to stop in the afternoons, so making the most of harvesting opportunities as crops were ready was essential.”

Better chop quality

The new combine’s factory-fitted Redekop straw chopper is also performing well. Andrew said similar performance to the previous retro-fit model was expected, and he wasn’t disappointed. In very windy conditions where spread width can be compromised the fine chop means that cultivator and drill performance are unlikely to be affected.

The new 12.5m header has performed well this season in all crops and Darren said the optional in-cab controlled operating angle adjustment proved worthwhile, improving performance in laid barley to the extent that only two lifters at each end of the table were needed, rather than a full set.

The new Axial Flow has an improved transmission with field and road modes and on-the-move 2-speed range selection. The tracks are also improved with better suspension, and Darren said that at 30kph maximum travel speed the ride is more comfortable.

The latest cab is similar to before but noticeably quieter and Darren said he believes this might be due to the new tracks with their reduced vibration and smoother ride.

Daily maintenance requirements are minimal and Darren commented that the fuel and Adblue filling points are conveniently located.

Soils improving

Since moving to CTF, soil condition has improved and fewer cultivations are needed. “We no longer feel the need to make all the fields brown,” explained Andrew. “This year we have invested in a 12m Dale Drill for crop establishment direct into stubbles where possible, and with the improved performance of the latest Redekop chopper this shouldn’t present any problems. Oilseed rape will be drilled straight into the chopped straw. A 12m Lemken Heliodor cultivator will create a light tilth for winter wheat after peas and oilseed rape, and for spring barley after winter wheat. Next year we will also trial this approach for a small area of peas. Tramlines remain largely untouched while the wider combine tracks are remedied with a special 2-legged Flat-lift.

“We also have a set of 12m rolls so almost all our field operations are now 12m CTF compatible, and although our target is to minimise field work through direct drilling where possible, we will be flexible in our approach when conditions require.”

Easy decision

Andrew said that as a result of the farm’s experience with the previous Axial Flow combine, including back-up from the team at Ernest Doe Power, no other combine brand was considered this time. “The Axial Flow is simple and reliable and we achieve an excellent grain sample with minimal losses.

“The back-up is excellent and we have also had a visit from a delegation of US-based Case IH representatives to find out how we are getting on with the machine. They were interested in our feedback and keen to know what we need for the future.”

Combine key to success

Andrew says a result of moving to 12m CTF is that the machinery used is large for the area farmed, but allows field operations to be carried out when conditions are optimal. “The main motivation for moving to CTF has been to improve soil condition and we have seen that during the gradual transition the land has become gradually easier to work, requiring less deep cultivation. Our new 12m drill not only fits the farm’s standard working width but it will also allow us to make the most of opportunities to use minimum cultivations where conditions allow. However, the main component of the 12m traffic regime is the combine. The new Axial Flow 9250 has an ideal header size, an unloading auger which allows trailers to remain in the tramlines and a straw chopper which chops finely and spreads effectively, which is crucial for our progression towards minimal tillage.

“This is why I always regard harvesting as the first cultivation of next year’s crop.”

Visitors to this year’s Midlands Machinery Show will be among the first to see Scotts Precision Manufacturing’s Trinity 6000 six row topper.

The Lincolnshire designer and manufacturer of vegetable harvesting equipment will also be showcasing its 2020 Evolution separator on Stand 3 in the Stanley Sheldon Hall.

The Trinity 6000 features front and rear-mounted cutting units, which give the perfect balance both in the field and on the road. It has been fitted with shear plates to help achieve fine chopping of the haulm. The wide range of flail lengths ensures class leading suction in the row bottoms. Scotts utilise a floating parallelogram action on the rear units to allow each topper unit to move freely up and down over varying terrain. The company offers the option of a hydraulic control upgrade, which gives the driver precise control of the rear unit’s cutting height from inside the cab. With transmission rated up to 250bhp Scotts believes the performance of its toppers are way ahead of the competition.

As well as the Trinity 6000, Scotts will also be showing visitors its Evolution Separator, the innovative harvesting machine which quickly and effectively removes clod, stones, haulm and loose soil from a wide range of vegetables.

2019 has been a record-breaking year for Scotts, with sales of its toppers and Evolution up 35% year on year.

As well as seeing Scott’s market-leading machines, managing director Derek Scott will be on stand, outlining the company’s plans for 2020 and offering a range of end of year discounts.

“We’ve just celebrated the company’s 25th birthday, and we’re delighted to be able to say that 2019 has been an excellent year for us. We are extremely grateful to all our customers who have placed orders with us and looking forward to bringing the year to a close in style,” says Derek. “The Midlands Machinery Show is always a great event, and we’re looking forward to catching up with customers and old friends.”

The British beef industry is set to benefit from an estimated £230 million boost after China finalised the details of an export deal with the UK.

Farmers and beef producers in the UK will have full access to the Chinese market, for the first time in 20 years. It marks the end of a ban imposed by China following the 1996 BSE outbreak.

The agreement follows extensive inspections by the Chinese authorities, who have confirmed that British beef producers meet the necessary standards to export to their market.

Chinese authorities have cleared four beef sites for export in the first instance, with further sites under review. The first exports are expected to be shipped in the next few months.

International trade secretary Liz Truss said: “Chinese diners can now enjoy the best beef in the world. I’m delighted that our dedicated UK producers can now sell quality products to one of the world’s largest economies, supporting local jobs and bringing millions of pounds to the UK economy each year.

“This is another step forward in realising our global trading ambitions with unbeatable British food. As we leave the European Union, we will continue to break down market access barriers to make it easier for UK businesses to trade across the world.”

AHDB’s international market development director, Dr Phil Hadley, added: “This is a great end to a very successful year for our red meat exports. This new agreement is fantastic news for our beef processors who will now have access to another market outside of the EU.

“We continue to work collaboratively with government to create new opportunities for our red meat exports and today’s announcement is a testament to the persistence and hard work of all involved.

“We look forward to seeing the first shipments of beef arrive in China and hope to replicate the success of our pork exports in the beef sector.”

China recently approved five British pork plants to export products to the country, building on a market that was already worth £70 million a year. Defra said it looks forward to the approval of further qualified UK pork plants by the end of 2019.

The UK auction record for a vintage or classic tractor was smashed at Cheffins October Vintage Sale when the iconic 1903 Ivel Agricultural Motor sold for £328,600.

Billed beforehand as the most important tractor ever to come to auction, the Ivel’s appearance drew a huge crowd to Cheffins’ Saleground in Sutton, with tractor enthusiasts travelling from all over the UK, Ireland and Europe to see the sale.

They were not disappointed. Cheffins Chairman and auctioneer Bill King took a first bid of £100,000 from the assembled crowd and there was spirited bidding before the gavel came down in favour of a telephone bidder. The Ivel will be remaining in the UK but the buyer wishes to remain anonymous.

Just eight complete examples of the Ivel Agricultural Motor, which was built in Biggleswade, Bedfordshire, are known worldwide and four of those are in museum collections.

The Ivel has tremendous provenance which is detailed in a book published in 2003 written by his previous owner, John Moffitt, a much-respected cattle breeder, agricultural entrepreneur and vintage tractor collector.

The research for the book found that this model – No. 131 – was used and exhibited at the Royal Agricultural Show in London in 1903. In 1970, Moffitt acquired the Ivel among a collection of tractors he purchased from Derek Hackett of Ross on Wye, a firm friend through their shared interest in early machinery.

It has appeared in the National Tractor & Farm Museum, the Beamish Museum and been exhibited at various events over the years.

To celebrate the Ivel’s centenary in 2003, John Moffitt embarked on a 100-mile charity drive on the Ivel around the country which raised £120,142 for charity.

Following John’s death in 2008, the Ivel has been exhibited at various events and featured in various publications.

The previous record price for a classic or vintage tractor of £94,500 was surpassed a further two times on the day in what was the strongest collection of tractors that Cheffins has catalogued in recent years.

The 1982 County 1884 – the holy grail for many collectors of classic tractors – sold for £139,920, while a 1980 County 1474 brought the hammerdown at £99,640.

Estimates suggest there are no more than 20 County 1884s in preservation and this machine was in superb condition and just two owners from new with 3,833 hours only recorded.

Bill King, chairman of Cheffins who conducted the sale, said: “This was one of the strongest collections of tractors we have ever catalogued and we saw exceptional trade.”

“To break the previous auction record for a vintage or classic tractor three times on the day is remarkable”.

“The undoubted highlight was obviously the Ivel. It was a huge privilege for all of us at Cheffins to offer this once in a lifetime opportunity to buy such an iconic and famous tractor and we are delighted to achieve such a deserving figure”.

“The price exceeded our pre-sale estimate and there was a tremendous buzz and anticipation during the sale.

An opportunity to purchase the holy grail for collectors of the popular County tractor presents itself at Cheffins’ Vintage Sale on Saturday 19th October.

In superb condition and with low hours, the 1982-registered County 1884 tractor is expected to attract an enthusiastic crowd when it comes under the hammer at Cheffins’ Saleground in Sutton, near Ely.

The 1884 is the last and largest of all the tractor models to be introduced by the original firm of County Commercial Cars Ltd of Fleet in Hampshire. Just a handful were built before the company went into receivership in February 1983 and two of them were exported.

The company continued under the auspices of the reformed County Tractors Ltd, but sales were extremely limited with the last supplied in 1989-90 and estimates suggest there are no more than 20 County 1884s in preservation.

Scarcity is only one of the factors contributing to the 1884’s desirability. Much of its allure is down to its striking appearance and eye-catching appearance. Based on the Ford TW-30, it used a turbocharged and intercooled version of the 401S engine delivering 188hp.

The 1884 was the first of the ‘long nose’ County tractors and had an extended bonnet housing the oil-cooler and main fuel tank.

This model was purchased as new from the Essex dealership, Cleales Ltd of Saffron Walden and Haverhill by Butler’s Farms of Halstead and changed hands three years later to its present owners who it has remained with since. It has recorded only 3,833 hours.

The high specification the County 1884 tractor meant they came with a hefty price tag as new and the annotation in a price list that has survived with the tractor suggests its purchase price was £40,940.

The tractor will be sold with full documentation including its original manuals, parts book and sales leaflet.

Bill King, chairman of Cheffins, said: “This is almost certainly the strongest Vintage Sale for tractors we have ever put together at Cheffins.

“In any normal year without such an iconic tractor as the Ivel Agricultural Motor, this County 1884 would be far and away the standout lot and you could say that for many other tractors in the sale, too.”

The full catalogue for the Vintage Sale, which contains 200 vintage and classic tractors and 2,000 lots in total, can be found HERE.

Sheep and cattle farmers are being urged to monitor for liver fluke this autumn, as early indications suggest the risk may be higher than usual.

A provisional forecast from Nadis predicts high risk in Scotland, north west England and north Wales, and moderate risk in Northern Ireland.

John Graham Brown, of Nadis, said: “While the predicted risk may be low in some areas, local conditions are very important. Farms in these regions that have consistently wet, boggy grazing, must assess their risk carefully in the coming months.

“Autumn fluke risk is also dependent on eggs being present on the pasture, so areas that were grazed by infected cattle or sheep earlier in the season should be considered a risk.”

Levels of fluke were relatively low last autumn and winter, according to Lesley Stubbings, of the Sustainable Control of Parasites in Sheep (Scops), but many areas have been wetter this year. Reports show there is already some disease in high risk areas and experts say the need for testing is greater than ever.

Speaking on behalf of Control of Worms Sustainably (COWS), Diana Williams of Liverpool University, advised farmers to utilise the testing tools available, including blood tests.

“At this early stage in the season, blood testing this year’s lambs gives us the earliest indication of a challenge, because it only takes about four weeks after infection for antibodies to be present,” she explained. “If they test positive, we know liver fluke are present and treatment is indicated, because they can only have been infected this summer/autumn.

“Taking action will avoid losses due to fluke in high risk situations, but remember that testing can also avoid unnecessary treatments if animals are not infected with liver fluke. This saves money and time and helps us protect the few medicines we have available to combat this parasite.”

Rebecca Mearns, of Biobest Laboratories, said she has only seen a few positive coproantigen ELISA tests so far this season, but this could be because it is early in the season and flukes are still immature.

“It is really important to consider re-testing in four to six weeks if this is the case. In contrast, the blood test has shown some high positives in parts of Wales from as early as the end of July. In dairy cattle we’ve also seen some high antibody levels in bulk milk samples in some herds and, with housing for cattle now starting, it is important to seek advice on appropriate treatment.”

Liver fluke should be considered as a cause of poor performance, or if lambs are not growing as expected – particularly if other causes have been ruled out.

Massey Ferguson, a worldwide brand of AGCO (NYSE:AGCO), is delighted to announce the launch of its high specification ‘NEXT Edition’ tractors at Agritechnica 2019 in Hannover on 10^th November.

The exclusive NEXT Edition specification is now available on four of Massey Ferguson’s most popular models:

• 110hp, MF 5711 S Dyna-4
• 130hp, MF 5713 S Dyna-4
• 200hp, MF 7720 S Dyna-VT
• 255hp, MF 7726 S Dyna-VT

Massey Ferguson has created the ‘NEXT Edition’ versions by combining elements of the MF 5700 S Essential and MF 7700 S Exclusive packages with further performance and comfort enhancing features, wrapped up in an exclusive and distinctive livery.

This straightforward package delivers unrivalled levels of performance and great value for money to enhance productivity for dairy, mixed, arable farmers and contractors.

“We just simply looked at our customers’ needs in these segments considering our best-selling tractors, as well as the preferred options, equipment and transmissions,” says Francesco Quaranta, Vice-President Sales & Marketing Massey Ferguson Europe & Middle East.

“To celebrate these successful models, we decided to meet these precise needs with a really attractive package. The NEXT Edition tractors take our future customers to the NEXT level of performance and straightforward dependability – when it comes to getting the job done on the farm. We want to offer them the best value for money.

“The NEXT Edition specification adds a distinctive and exclusive touches inside and out,” he adds. “These tractors feature a unique ‘NEXT Edition’ emblem on the bonnet, as well as an exclusive plate inside, which shows its special, ‘limited NEXT Edition’ build number. NEXT Edition models come in the iconic MF red colour, but with distinctive black grilles as standard. For those looking for further exclusivity, they can also choose a full black livery for the same price,” says Mr Quaranta.

Next Edition models will be available for new orders from October 1^st, 2019. They will be on display on the Massey Ferguson stand at Agritechnica 2019, Hall 20 Stand B14c.

Two new MF 5700 S Dyna-4 NEXT Editions

Massey Ferguson is introducing two new NEXT Edition models in the MF 5700 S series – the 110hp, MF 5711 S Dyna-4, 130hp and MF 5713 S Dyna-4.

Both tractors are equipped with the renowned Dyna-4 semi-powershift transmission as standard. This offers exceptional performance in the yard, field or on the road – offering 16 forward and 16 reverse speeds all selected on one lever, without using the clutch.

These agile, highly manoeuvrable tractors offer excellent visibility over the slim dashboard and narrow steep-nose bonnet. With its left-hand Power Control lever, the Dyna-4 transmission provides straightforward control to change direction, shift speeds and select neutral. Together with the boosted hydraulic flow, this makes them the ultimate loader tractors.

NEXT Edition models expand the already comprehensive standard ‘Essential’ specification, which includes:  Engine speed memory, brake to neutral, air conditioning with manual adjustment, telescopic twin-angle mirrors and the high visibility, steep nose bonnet,

Further increasing specification on the NEXT Edition are additional features to increase performance and comfort:

• Automatic, air suspended swivel seat
• Mechanical cab suspension
• 100 litres/min hydraulic oil flow – for optimum loader operation and to boost field performance
• AutoDrive function on the Dyna-4 transmission automatically changes speeds to increase output and versatility
• Three mechanical spool valves
• Up to 12 LED work and road lights (depending on roof option)
• Further standard tyre size choice including: 540/65R38 – 440/65R28
• 28m wide rear fenders and extensions
• Further options and equipment to personalise the NEXT Edition models as well as match any specific market/country needs.

Two new MF 7700 S NEXT Editions

Both the 200hp, MF 7720 S NEXT Edition and the 255hp, MF 7726 S NEXT Edition models are equipped with the state-of-the-art Dyna-VT CVT transmission.

Designed specifically to meet the needs of agricultural professionals from mixed farming to arable and contracting businesses, these new tractors employ straightforward, dependable technology to deliver ultimate efficiency and low operating costs.

The highly efficient NEXT Edition models, with their impressive traction and lift  capacities excel in the field and on the road, with superb fuel economy, long service intervals and low maintenance requirements reducing running costs.

The NEXT Edition models further increase the existing ‘Exclusive’ specification, which already provides:  Closed-centre 110 litres/min hydraulics, four electronic spool valves, mechanical cab suspension, Command Control Armrest with Multipad lever, cruise control and Clutch Effect. They also come with Quadlink front axle suspension, automatic air conditioning, mirrors with electric de-icing and adjustment and Datatronic 4 terminal to manage all tractor functions.

On top of this impressive specification, NEXT Edition models are equipped with even more automation and advanced features to improve comfort, operation and performance:

• Heavy duty Integrated Front Linkage System (IFLS), offering up to 4,000kg lift capacity, with dedicated front valve control
• SpeedSteer, which provides faster and easier manoeuvring, by reducing the number of steering wheel revolutions needed to make turns
• Auto-Guide ready, including additional Fieldstar 5 touch-screen terminal plus the option of further precision farming functions
• 55m wide rear fenders with rear extensions
• Wide pivoting front fenders (depending on tyre size)
• New standard tyre sizes including 650/65R42 – 540/65R30 to improve traction and prevent compaction
• Up to 16 LED work and road lights
• Further options and equipment to personalise the NEXT Edition models, as well as match any specific market/country needs.