Trade stand bookings are flooding in for the Agricultural Machinery and Equipment Show, which this year will allow farmers to test drive tractors for the first time ever.
The increasingly popular event will be held at the Royal Bath & West Showground, Shepton Mallet, Somerset on Wednesday, 12 February 2014. And while most of the event will take place undercover, in the extensive range of permanent buildings, the outdoor demonstration ring will enable visitors to test drive and compare their favoured purchases.
“We are delighted to be able to offer this facility for the first time,” says show organiser Alan Lyons. “When buying machinery, farmers rightly want to know how it handles in practice; this is one of the very few machinery shows where they can do that.” Agricultural machinery demonstrations will also feature material handling, sweeping and the latest tractor models.
The show, now in its fifth year, provides a one stop opportunity for more than 3000 farmers and contractors – whether arable or livestock - to view all types of agricultural equipment. Whether looking for top of the range tractors and feeder wagons, fencing tools or tillage equipment, AMES has got it covered.
This year, the show is running a new competition; the South West Agricultural Contractor of the Year 2014. Sponsored by accountant Old Mill, the competition is open to all farm contractors across the region, with a £500 first prize and trophy.
“Agricultural contractors are an essential part of the farming industry, but rarely get the recognition they deserve,” says Mr Lyons. “We feel it is important to celebrate the very best in the business, and welcome nominations from contractors or their customers.” Contractors who are short-listed for the award will be visited by the award judges, who will consider all aspects of the business and the machinery involved.
