Versatile equipment for Sheffield University

Versatile equipment for Sheffield University

By Peter Driver

The new equipment, which includes two Iseki compact tractors, a Jacobsen T-Plex ride-on triple mower and a Ransomes Super Certes pedestrian mower, is being used at the University's Norton Playing Fields with one of the tractors located at their Goodwin Sports Centre.

Adrian Hankin, head groundsman commented,
"At Norton we have 13 sports pitches; eight Football, four Rugby, one Lacrosse and a Cricket pitch.

"We use the T-Plex constantly during the Summer months to cut all the pitches and the cricket outfield. The Super Certes is used for preparing the cricket square. The Iseki TF330 has been particularly impressive; it has exceptional lift for a tractor of its size. It has a mid-mounted rotary cutting deck and can easily lift our large scarifier. In fact I've even used it with both items working at the same time, mowing and scarifying in one pass!

The other Iseki, the TXG23, is based permanently at the University's Goodwin Sports Centre and is used for the maintenance of three new synthetic full size, floodlit, football/hockey pitches. It is fitted with a brush for lifting the knap on the artificial surface and brushing in sand, as well a general cutting duties to the surrounding grassed areas.

Adrian and his team of five grounds staff also undertake contracting work in the area and regularly visit Bramall Lane, home of Sheffield United and the prestigious Don valley Stadium as well as other local sports clubs. Chesterfield FC use the facilities at Norton Playing Fields for pre-season and training throughout the year.