Hammers hit it off with TORO.
By Lucy Ohsten
A whole range of new kit has arrived at West Ham through the deal. It includes a Turf Aerator 686 - a 78in towed spiker that can be fitted with a variety of slicing blades; a Groundsmaster 3000-D out-front rotary mower; two Reelmaster 5500-Ds, a Reelmaster 3100-D Sidewinder; and two Workman 2100 utility vehicles.
The groundstaff team cares for a total 10 hectares, which is spread over three sites: the Hammers' main pitch at Upton Park; the first team training ground at Chadwell Heath; and the Little Heath academy training ground.
Head groundsman at the Nationwide First Division club Dougie Robertson says: "We evaluated Toro against another manufacturer and there was do doubt it was a far superior product."
Dougie's Toro fleet certainly makes his job that little bit easier. One machine is a particular favourite. "The Sidewinder is fantastic," he enthuses. "The way it's built, the quality of cut, everything. I believe it's the best triple-mower on the market, and I've used a few. If we hadn't re-signed the deal with Toro I still would have brought in a Sidewinder."
His local dealer Grasshopper also plays a key part. "They provide me with an excellent level of service, they react fast and we work together as a team," he adds.
Toro commercial turf maintenance products are distributed throughout the mainland UK by Lely (UK) Limited, St Neots, Cambs. (tel: 01480 226800), and in all of Ireland by Lely Ireland Limited, Kilboggin, Nurney, Co. Kildare (tel: 00 353 (0)45 526170).
Photo caption: West Ham's Dougie Robertson, far right, with, seated, Nigel Cornwall from dealer Grasshopper, and Lely's Larry Pearman. Also pictured is Lely's Rob Attewell.
