Exhibitors reported booming business at the 15th biennial Association of Professional Foresters’ (APF) International Forest Machinery Exhibition at the Ragley Estate, Alcester.
Ponsse sold two harvesters worth £250,000 each from its stand, while one dealer sold 60 chainsaws on the first day of the September 23-25 show, which attracted 13,000 visitors. One new exhibitor was reportedly “over the moon” and several regulars said it proved to be above expectations.
As well as the display of products and services by more than 220 exhibitors, the event also hosted various competitions, including the European Lumberjack Championships, won by Britain’s Kevin Chattley. First prize in the UK lorry loading championships was scooped by Scotland’s Bobby McKerral.
A craft area included one of the largest gatherings of pole-lathe turners in the UK, competing in the World Log-to-Leg Championships, while the Woodland Trust organised school parties with foresters to explain all the activities.
