Malvern Hills puts Kubota’s latest RTV to the test

Kubota UK's commitment to the environment has stepped up once more this month after the market leading machinery supplier donated its RTV-X900 utility vehicle to the Malvern Hills Trust, a charity that conserves the iconic, ecological landscape in Worcestershire.

As a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, a home to wildlife, and a workplace for local farmers, the Malvern Hills and Commons make up over 3,000 acres of grassland, woodland and rocky terrain.

The Kubota RTV-X900 has already become a major player for the Trust, helping its 20 volunteers and six field staff tackle the expansive and rugged landscape by carrying people and equipment efficiently across the vast site.

Community and Conservation Officer, Richard Vale said: "The Kubota RTV-X900 is great, because it allows us to access certain areas that we couldn't before. We're now able to maintain the hills easier and quicker, without disturbing any visitors or wildlife.

"Every time we use the RTV-X900, we become more confident in its capabilities. The cab offers great protection while its compact characteristics make our presence on the hills very constructive as the machine offers high power without damaging the soft terrain. Anything bigger almost begins to reduce the positive effect we try to have on the environment."

It's estimated that Malvern Hills receives over one million visitors per year and around 7,000 on peak holiday periods such as the recent Easter weekend. The iconic landscape hosts a range of activities including walking, cycling, horse-riding, and more.

While the hills and commons are visited by thousands of tourists, they're also home to a range of wildlife including bluebells, marsh tits, serotine bats, adders and woodpeckers, to name but a few.

As 90% of the hills and commons are registered under common land, they are protected under law for the benefit of locals, wildlife and visitors. Because of this, the Trust need to have something that successfully aids in their daily maintenance and protection of the landscape, this is why the footprint and efficiency of the RTV-X900 is so important.

Duncan Bridges, Chief Executive Officer of the Malvern Hills Trust commented: "We're so thankful to have been donated the RTV-X900, it cuts time, energy and costs, which helps us make a much bigger impact across the hills and commons. As the number of visitors continues to increase, the work of our volunteers, field staff and wardens is all the more essential to the area and the vehicle helps us to do just that."

Karen Tipping, marketing manager at Kubota UK, concluded: "Kubota takes its commitment to the environment seriously, so much so, that our corporate mission statement is 'For Earth, For Life' - its our promise to protect the environment on a global scale. By donating an RTV-X900 to the Malvern Hills Trust, we are living up to this commitment and playing a key role in helping this charity and the valuable work it does."

To find out more about Kubota visit www.kubota.co.uk or call 01844 268000.