New mid-range tractor spearheads Irish contract service

Continuing expansion of William Mulholland's grounds maintenance contract services has seen the addition of an 80hp MF 3635 tractor to his machinery fleet. Supplied by local Massey Ferguson dealer, Cyril Johnston and Co Ltd, this tractor is now spearheading a thriving contract operation which numbers local authorities, golf and sports clubs, utilities and industrial estates among its customers.

Based at Loughgall in County Armagh, Northern Ireland, the business was formed in 2001 and trades as WM Landscape Services. Concentrating on the commercial and professional sectors, William and his team operate throughout Northern Ireland and are gaining an increasing foothold in the Republic thanks to a growing reputation for providing a reliable, friendly and cost-effective service.

"We've relied primarily on word of mouth to gain new customers and this has served us extremely well over the years," explained William. "However, I have been careful not to overstretch the business and have only taken on new staff and machinery as the workload has grown. I now employ three full-time staff with another three joining the team during the peak summer season."

The new MF 3635 tractor was acquired by William with three specific tasks in mind: large-area top dressing, deep-tine aeration and trailer hauling. "I have a very good relationship with Cyril Johnston and have to admit that the tractor was bought without a demonstration, relying solely on its specification and Massey Ferguson's reputation," commented William. "To date, it has proved an extremely sound investment."

Key features demanded by William were big tractor output combined with the weight and dimensions of a smaller tractor. "We work on many quality turf surfaces in a high rainfall area," explained William. "The new tractor had to be capable of high workrates with minimal risk of compaction and marking. I have to say that its power to weight ratio is just right for our needs, enhanced by the fitting of Trelleborg low ground pressure tyres."

Other important features highlighted by William are the tractor's 24 x 24 shuttle gearbox with creep speeds, a quality air-conditioned cab and a fuel-efficient engine. "All three are essential requirements both on and off road," he said. "I like the tractor and so do my staff and customers, so it's good news all-round."

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