Final-year Land-based Engineering students from the College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE) completed a three-day study tour across England. The tour provided insights into manufacturers, dealerships, and advances in agricultural machinery technology.

The tour began at the Case New Holland (CNH) Industrial plant in Basildon, where students observed assembly lines producing New Holland T6 and T7 tractors, including methane-powered models. They learned about the company's history from the Fordson brand and its global supply chain.

The group visited Ernest Doe & Sons dealership in Ulting, Maldon, exploring its history, workshops, and stocks of second-hand machinery ahead of the annual Doe Show.

On the second day, students attended the LAMMA Show at NEC Birmingham, the UK's largest agricultural machinery exhibition. They examined technologies in transmissions, electronics, cultivation systems, and engines, relevant to their curriculum and assignments.

The final day included visits to McConnel Power Arm factory in Shropshire, focusing on vegetation management innovations, and John Bownes Ltd in Winsford, which specializes in Valtra machinery and vintage tractor restoration.

CAFRE is promoting an Open Day on Friday 13 March for those considering Land-based Engineering careers.