Yorkshire farming business Metcalfe Farms has developed from a humble dairy farm into a diverse operation including haulage, contracting, quarrying and driver training while retaining the dairy enterprise.
Managing director Rob Metcalfe was recommended the Avant range of machines by dealer APSV. “We heard about Avant through Rob Atkinson at APSV. He told me I should really be using these Avant machines, and that they had a vast range of implements.”
The business first invested in an electric e6 model, which proved ideal for confined spaces, including the farm’s workshop.
“We really like the electric Avant in the workshop,” Rob explains. “It is quiet, and it doesn’t have the diesel engine roaring all the time. The team in the workshop like it so much they won’t let us use it!”
Beyond this, the business uses an Avant 630 for a variety of tasks around the farm.
“I like the quick-release hydraulic system on the Avant so you can change the attachments very quickly,” Rob notes.
“It is really good. You’ve got no risk of spilling hydraulic fluid and it makes life incredibly easy for the user.”
One thing that has impressed Rob is the versatility of the units, calling the lift capacity ‘brilliant’ and praising the compact dimensions that allow it to work in different areas. He has also been impressed with the range of attachments.
“I am surprised with the sheer vast number of attachments that Avant provides,” he remarks. “They have so many attachments that we can use and are great all-rounder machines.”
He emphasises the importance of backup as well and says that APSV have not let him down.
“APSV are great to deal with,” he acknowledges. “They always have parts on hand if I need them; if not they order them in and are very rapid. The most important thing is backup and warranty. We like to choose a good machine that doesn’t break down and has the best backup – that’s what we aim for – and that’s what we get from Avant and APSV.”
For more information go to www.avant.co.uk