Twitter, tractor test drives and tillage equipment will be among the many attractions at next month’s Agricultural Machinery and Equipment Show (AMES) in Somerset.
For the first time ever, visitors will be able to test drive their choice of tractors at the Bath & West Showground, Shepton Mallet, with two major manufacturers supplying state-of-the-art equipment. JCB Agriculture and Uphill & Son Ltd will be offering their T4i fuel-efficient 500 series loadall, while Redlynch Agricultural Engineering will have the Fendt 500 and 700 series tractors available.
“We’re delighted to be able to offer this facility for for farmers and contractors who are keen to try out their chosen tractor,” says show organiser Alan Lyons. “Why not come along to the dedicated test drive circuit to experience for yourself how different models handle and discover which best suit your farming system.”
An innovative new trailer bale clamp from Holdfast Trailers will also be on display, showing how farmers can load and transport round or square bales on a trailer quickly, safely and securely, without the need for laborious ratchet strapping.
In addition, Simon Haley, co-founder of AgriChatUK, the UK’s largest and most popular online farming discussion on twitter, will be holding a drop-in workshop to help farmers make the most of social media. The “Twitter in the Farmyard” session will explain how to set up social media accounts and connect with others in the industry, and how farmers can use Twitter, Facebook and YouTube to promote their businesses.
Another highlight of the show will be South West Contractor of the Year award, sponsored by accountant Old Mill. With entries now closed, judges, including Mark Andrew – one of Cornwall’s largest and most successful agricultural contractors – will be visiting the shortlisted entrants, with the winner set to receive £500 and a trophy.
“The Agricultural Machinery and Equipment Show offers a one-stop shop for contractors, livestock and arable farmers to view all types of equipment; from tractors to fencing tools and feeder wagons to fertiliser spreaders,” says Mr Lyons. “It is therefore extremely popular among traders and farmers alike, and we look forward to welcoming visitors to experience everything we have to offer.”
Admission to the AMES Show, which will be held on Wednesday, 12 February, is FREE to the general public and opening times are 9am-4pm.
About the Royal Bath & West of England Society:
The Society was founded in 1777 in Bath by a group of philanthropists led by Edmund Rack. We are a registered charity organisation (Registered Charity Number 1039397). The Society was formed with the aims of encouraging agriculture, arts, manufacture and commerce.
Our charitable activities provide:
· Agriculture, veterinary, educational and art scholarships
· Technical events and Seminars
· Practical farming advice and conferences
· Countryside Education
· Diversification advice for farmers
· Education for children
· A market place for countryside products
· Plus all the events run by the Society and the Bath & West Trading Company