Carden Park's Peter Pattenden wins sprayer award

Peter Pattenden, spray technician at Carden Park in Cheshire, has won the title of Amenity Sprayer Operator of the Year. 

 

Peter's award presentation was made as part of the BIGGA Celebration with Kress at BTME in Harrogate. 

The awards highlight best practice and experience in the challenging role of ensuring accurate application on all amenity surfaces.

Sean Loakes, Syngenta technical manager, said: "Although only a relatively young age, Peter ably demonstrated a deep understanding of the principles of sprayer mechanics and operation, along with the implication of how any changes could impact on application. 

"He also showed an excellent awareness of the environmental aspects of good sprayer operation that will mitigate any impact of off-target spray drift or over application. His commitment and attention to achieving accurate application was exemplary and makes him a great role model for other sprayer operators to learn from."

Sponsored by ICL and Syngenta and managed by the Amenity Forum, the awards seek to share top tips and advice that will raise the standards of spray application across the amenity industry. 

The judges particularly praised Peter's commitment to completing a comprehensive checklist of mechanical and practical points before every application, including calibration of the sprayer and assessment of the specific requirements for any products being used.

The judges also highlight how Peter had embraced new technologies in a move towards precision application to ensure more of the products hit the intended target, as well as adopting digital tools including sprayer set up advice, turf management apps and application record keeping.

The other finalists were Sarah Phillips of Complete Weed Control (South and Central Wales) and Mark Sippitt, of Warwickshire-based Top Grass UK.

Presenting the award at BTME, Ian Graham, chairperson of the Amenity Forum, said: "The skills required to competently apply professional plant protection products are often overlooked. Along with the formal training and accreditation process, there is the experience that takes years to acquire.

"Winners of this award have elevated the application process to an art, be that with a knapsack or boom sprayer, to help create great playing surfaces all year round, managing amenity areas efficiently and cost effectively, along with maintaining immaculate lawns for customers.

"The Amenity Forum is delighted to work with ICL and Syngenta as the sponsors of this award and we would like to congratulate Peter for upholding the highest of professional standards."

More information about the awards can be found on the Amenity Forum website.