Howardson Group

Hibernian FC Goes Greener with Dennis ES-860’s Sustainable Precision

BradIGFH Howardson Group March 21, 2025

Hibernian Football Club, celebrated as Scotland’s greenest football club, has made significant strides in sustainable grounds management with the purchase of the Dennis ES-860 battery-powered mower.

Hibernian FC Goes Greener with Dennis ES-860’s Sustainable Precision.

Head Groundsman Steven Thomas has found the ES-860 invaluable for its maintenance efficiency, environmental benefits, and ability to meet early game day demands, reinforcing the club’s commitment to top-tier pitch quality and sustainability.

The Dennis ES-860 is a 34-inch battery-powered turf management system, renowned for its versatility, with 13 interchangeable cassette options that handle a wide array of essential tasks like cutting, scarifying, brushing, and verticutting. For Steven, this level of flexibility has been transformative in his approach to maintaining the stadium pitch at Hibernian.

“We’ve had the ES-860 for almost twelve months, and it’s exceeded all of my expectations,” Steven explains. “When I joined the club, we had limited machinery, and upgrading it was a priority. After testing a few brands, the difference with the ES-860 was night and day. As soon as I tried it on the pitch, I knew it was the one for us. The ease of use was far superior to anything we tried.”

Switching to battery power was also a strategic choice, aligning with the club’s environmental goals. As the first Scottish football club to join the UN Sports for Climate Action Framework, Hibernian is deeply committed to sustainability. “When I first started, Hibs had recently won an award for being the greenest football club in Scotland, and so getting the ES-860 was a no-brainer—it aligned perfectly with that recognition.”

The ES-860 has made a considerable difference in daily routines for Steven and his team. With its low noise level, the ES-860 enables the grounds team to start work earlier without disturbing nearby residents. “Where we store the equipment, there are adjacent houses,” says Steven. “Starting petrol mowers at 7 a.m. is challenging due to noise regulations, so having the ES-860 lets us get an early start without disturbing anyone.”

This quiet operation is invaluable for early kick-off days, especially when games are scheduled at 12 p.m. on Sundays. “For Sky Sports games, we often need the pitch ready by 8 a.m., which means cutting at 4 a.m. The ES-860 lets us meet this demand. It’s been a game-changer for those high-pressure mornings.”

This mower has become central to Hibernian’s daily maintenance, used up to twice a day in the summer and at least once a day during the winter. “The quality of cut and the quality of finish is first-class,” Steven adds.

The battery life of the ES-860 is another highlight. “After a year of use, the battery performance remains exceptional. Our rule of thumb is that it should be able to handle a full pitch cut once or twice, and it consistently does that without any issues. The battery life hasn’t dipped, which is key for me.”

Working with Dennis has also proved valuable beyond the machine itself. “The support from Dennis has been fantastic. In the past, I’ve had new machinery where, once sold, you never hear from them again. Dennis is different—the team is always on hand, ready to help, and go out of their way if I need them.”

With features that support both environmental initiatives and practical day-to-day demands, the Dennis ES-860 has become indispensable at Hibernian FC.

For further information or a no obligation demonstration, please contact Dennis 01332 824 777 or visit www.dennisuk.com

For more news, reviews and insightful views, you can follow Dennis on Twitter and Instagram @DennisMowers and like the company’s Facebook page – www.facebook.com/DennisMowersUK.You can also view the latest Dennis videos by visiting www.youtube.com/DennisMowers

Breadsall Priory Benefits from the SISIS Rotorake TM1000

BradIGFH Howardson Group March 21, 2025

Nestled on the edge of the picturesque Peak District, Breadsall Priory Golf & Country Club spans 300 acres of pristine parkland. This renowned club boasts two distinct 18-hole golf courses, including the Championship Priory Course, alongside a putting green and driving range.

Breadsall Priory Benefits from the SISIS Rotorake TM1000.

Maintaining such expansive and varied grounds is no small feat, and the SISIS Rotorake TM1000 has proven to be an invaluable asset.

Course Manager John Smith, who has dedicated 28 years to Breadsall Priory, originally started his career at the club as a mechanic. “I was born on a farm, and was born to be outside,” he reflects. Over the years, John has faced numerous challenges, especially with the club’s dual-course layout. “We have two very different courses which is great for membership.”

These differences require different maintenance strategies. “Having two different courses has its challenges, more and more so with climate change. We had 1.7 metres of rain in just over 15 months, which is unheard of,” John says. To address these challenges, the club relies heavily on specialised equipment like the SISIS Rotorake TM1000.

The Rotorake TM1000 is a tractor-mounted scarifier unit featuring a choice of five quick-release interchangeable reels designed to tackle thatch removal and control, improving water infiltration and reducing standing surface water. Its contra-rotating reel ensures a clean, consistent performance, while various blades cater to key tasks such as scarifying, linear aeration, verticutting, and brushing. The TM1000’s quick-release reel system and no-tool depth setting enable fast, simple adjustments, making it highly efficient for the team.

“The TM1000 is a great machine for us. We even scarify in November because it results in less disease due to greater airflow through the roots,” John notes. “We use it on greens, aprons, tees – we just change the reel from 2mm down to 1mm up to 3mm. The ability to do that quickly, along with its cleanliness and speed, really helps.

“Since using the machine, thatch levels have reduced by 15% over a 12-month period.”

John also praised the TM1000 for its reliability and ease of maintenance. “There’s no complicated electrics on it,” John points out. Its standard Cat. 1, 3-point linkage and optional hydraulic tipping kit further enhance its functionality.

“The best feature on the TM1000 is its cleanliness, the speed, and the fact you can use it anywhere, even if it’s raining. The ability to change the cassettes quickly and its power to do that make it fantastic,” John concludes.

With the SISIS Rotorake TM1000, Breadsall Priory Golf & Country Club continues to thrive, offering members and visitors alike a top-tier golfing experience amidst the beautiful Derbyshire landscape.

For further information or a no obligation demonstration, please contact SISIS on 01332 824 777 or visit www.sisis.com

For more news, reviews and insightful views, you can follow SISIS on Twitter or Instagram @SISISMachinery and like the company’s Facebook page – www.facebook.com/SISISMachinery. You can also view the latest SISIS videos by visiting www.youtube.com/SISISMachinery

Howardson Group Bids Farewell to Retiring Roger Moore

BradIGFH Howardson Group March 11, 2025

After 17 years of outstanding service, Roger Moore has announced his retirement from the Howardson Group.

Roger has been a familiar and respected figure within the company. Having joined as a Customer Manager, his role evolved to encompass sales, marketing, and customer support, making him an integral part of the business. Over the years, he has built strong relationships with key industry organisations, including the GMA, BIGGA, SAPCA, EBA, SBA, WBA, CGBA, and numerous representatives from cricket, football, rugby, tennis, and croquet, as well as the press.

Alongside his colleagues, particularly Alison Pickering, Roger has played a leading role in organising and developing events in the UK and abroad, dealer days, press days, export dealer events, and the company’s brochures, websites, and overall marketing strategy.

The highly regarded seminar programmes for bowls, cricket, croquet, football, and rugby have been running for over 20 years, and Roger and his team have continuously refined and enhanced them. These programmes provide valuable insights from industry experts, supporting everyone from volunteers to professional turf managers.

When SISIS was acquired in early 2011, Roger was instrumental in developing a detailed 90-day integration plan to successfully merge Dennis and SISIS—a significant challenge that had never been undertaken before. The senior team fully backed his plan, and its success helped shape the company’s future.

Roger’s meticulous attention to detail has been a defining trait throughout his career. His commitment to quality in every aspect of marketing—whether exhibition stands, advertisements, brochures, or digital content—has left a lasting impact. A prime example of his expertise was the 2022 Dennis Centenary Year celebration, which he and Alison planned with precision, ensuring the event ran seamlessly.

As a senior team member, Roger’s wisdom and experience have played a crucial role in the company’s growth, contributing to an almost ninefold increase in sales during his tenure.

Beyond his professional contributions, Roger, a lifelong Liverpool FC supporter, has also been the company quizmaster, known for his encyclopedic knowledge of sport—especially football.

Managing Director Megan Oliver, Chairman Ian Howard, and everyone at Howardson Group extend their sincere gratitude to Roger for his dedication and contributions over the years and wish him all the best in his retirement.

For further information visit www.howardsongroup.com

SISIS Machines Transform Greens and Fairways at Shiskine Golf and Tennis Club

BradIGFH Howardson Group February 13, 2025

Maintaining a golf course as unique and picturesque as Shiskine Golf and Tennis Club demands equipment that delivers exceptional results with precision and reliability.

SISIS Machines Transform Greens and Fairways at Shiskine Golf and Tennis Club.

For Head Greenkeeper Stewart Fotheringham, the introduction of two SISIS machines—the Maxislit and the Multislit—has been nothing short of revolutionary. These innovative tools have transformed the condition of the course’s greens and fairways, setting a new standard for drainage, firmness, and overall playability, even in the face of challenging weather and high foot traffic.

Maintaining the course’s stunning greens and fairways has always been a labour of love for Stewart. He began his career at Shiskine, on the Isle of Arran, in 1982 as a 15-year-old apprentice and, 42 years later, his passion for the course remains as strong as ever.

“If you’ve ever been here, you’ll understand why I’ve stayed so long,” Stewart explains. “The location is incredible, with breathtaking views, and the 12-hole layout is a hit with everyone. The members love it, and we see plenty of visitors in the summer. But with all that play, and the wind that hits us from every direction, the course takes a beating.”

To keep the course in peak condition, Stewart and his small team of two full-time and one part-time greenkeepers recently introduced two SISIS machines: the Maxislit for fairways and the Multislit for greens. The results, according to Stewart, have been transformative.

Shiskine’s seaside links course, established in 1896, is a mix of quirky features and challenging terrain. Regular aeration is essential to manage drainage, reduce compaction, and ensure the course can handle heavy play and unpredictable weather.

“The advice to incorporate slit tining came from our agronomist, Gordon Irvine,” says Stewart. “Gordon explained that slit tining over winter offers unique benefits, so we decided to invest in the Maxislit and Multislit from SISIS.”

The SISIS Maxislit, a tractor-mounted deep slitter, is used on fairways to enhance drainage and reduce compaction. “We use the Maxislit about three times between November and January,” Stewart says. The angle of the tines and the spiral design allow deep penetration with minimal surface disturbance, and it’s incredibly simple to operate—just hitch it to the tractor and go. “The results have been excellent,” adds Stewart.

On the greens, the SISIS Multislit, a tractor-mounted deep slitting lawn aerator, has also worked wonders. “We’ve only had the Multislit for a year, but the difference is remarkable,” Stewart notes. “After just a few uses, the greens are firmer and much drier. During Storm Darragh, we had 60mm of rain, and there wasn’t a single puddle on any of the greens. Before using the Multislit, we’d have seen standing water everywhere.”

Stewart emphasises the ease of use as a standout feature of both machines. “They’re straightforward and fast to set up. There’s no complex PTO shaft to deal with, and they’re highly effective. For the Multislit, we’ve used it 4-5 times so far, and the improvement in drainage and firmness has been incredible.”

For Stewart, the investment in SISIS machinery has been transformative. “If you’re struggling with soft greens or poor drainage, the Multislit is a must-have. It’s transformed our greens in no time. The Maxislit has been just as effective on our fairways. I’d recommend these machines to any greenkeeper—they’re simple, efficient, and deliver fantastic results.”

For further information or a no obligation demonstration, please contact SISIS on 01332 824 777 or visit www.sisis.com

Dennis Launches Revolutionary Multi Charger Hub for E-Series Mowers

BradIGFH Howardson Group February 13, 2025

Dennis has unveiled its latest advancement in sustainable technology: the Multi Charger Hub. This new product significantly enhances the efficiency and convenience of charging their acclaimed E-Series battery-powered mowers.

Dennis Launches Revolutionary Multi Charger Hub for E-Series Mowers.

The E-Series, known for its eco-friendly and high-performance battery-powered mowers, has already set a new standard in the industry. With models such as the ES-34R, ES-860, ES-760, ES-30, and ES-36, these mowers offer versatility, reduced carbon emissions, and operational quietness, catering to the growing demand for sustainable solutions.

Now, with the introduction of the Multi Charger Hub, owners of these innovative mowers are poised to experience even greater benefits.

Efficient Charging Solution

The Multi Charger Hub is designed to streamline the charging process for multiple E-Series mowers, offering a host of features tailored to the needs of professional grounds persons:

Sequentially Charging: This mobile unit can recharge up to 8 large E-Series machines, ensuring that all mowers are ready for use without the hassle of multiple chargers.
Intelligent Charging System: The Hub includes a smart system that shuts down each mower at 100% charge, preventing overcharging and preserving battery life. The display screen provides a clear indication of each mower’s state of charge (SOC) and highlights which machine is currently being charged.
Convenient Design: The easily manoeuvrable trolley design allows for convenient positioning in workshops, reducing clutter and optimising workspace efficiency. Individual cable connections prevent unused wires from trailing across the floor, enhancing safety and organisation.
Storage Solutions: The Hub features top box storage for all individual charger cables and additional under-cabinet storage for spares or service items, keeping everything neatly organised and within reach.
Versatile Charging Options: Capable of charging all connected mowers to a selected level before moving on to 100% SOC, the Hub can charge from low to high or high to low. It also has a default setting that charges all connected mowers to 60% initially, then completes the charge to 100%, ensuring all mowers have sufficient charge for short turnaround times.
Manual Override and Display Features: Users can manually skip to the next mower if required, and the display shows all connected mowers’ SOC and indicates which machine is being charged. This feature allows for precise control over the charging process.

The Multi Charger Hub addresses common challenges associated with battery-powered equipment, such as avoiding deep discharge—a condition that can occur if a machine is stored at 0% charge. The Hub’s ability to bring all mowers to a safe charge level prevents this issue, ensuring the longevity and reliability of the batteries.

Technical Specifications

Powerful Charging Capability: The 3kW charger can charge an individual machine from 0-100% in less than 2 hours. Overnight, it can charge all 8 machines from 10%-15% to 100%, making it ideal for busy schedules.
User-Friendly Interface: The Hub automatically cycles through each connected mower, displaying each mower’s SOC on the screen. The mower’s console also shows the charging status, providing a consistent user experience whether charging individually or via the Hub.

With the launch of the Multi Charger Hub, Dennis continues to lead the way in providing innovative, sustainable solutions for turf maintenance professionals.

For further information or a no obligation demonstration, please contact Dennis 01332 824 777 or visit www.dennisuk.com