Farming Monthly National June 2016 | Page 57

| ATV Honda & NFYFC join forces for ATV safety An important event for many of the UK’s Young Farmers’ Club members is the National Federation’s annual conference. eld this year between 6th and 8th May in Blackpool, the annual gettogether is an opportunity to debate issues important to youth involved in the rural community. For most, its timing marks the start of the summer agricultural show season which will involve many of its members. ATV market leader Honda entered a partnership with the National Federation of Young Farmers’ Clubs (NFYFC) in July H www.farmingmonthly.co.uk 2015. Designed to boost its farm safety initiative, the sponsorship helps promote ATV safety to the Federation’s 25,000 members, many of them using ATVs regularly in their work. Vehicle safety on farms is a huge concern for the NFYFC as, according to the Health and Safety Executive, accidents involving moving vehicles account for the greatest number of deaths in agriculture; almost a fifth, over the past five years. The initiative aims to increase awareness of farm safety and reduce casualties, by encouraging a change of attitude by YFC members. Part of Honda’s role is to connect its approved main dealers with their local Young Farmers’ Clubs, across England and Wales. Encouraging safe ATV use has been a priority for Honda for many years and staff from every main dealer attend approved operator courses with recognised training providers. This experience helps them provide practical advice for users. Free ‘European ATV Safety Institute’ (EASI) operator training is included with every new Honda ATV, and dealers can help new and existing users by putting them in touch with training centres in their area. Making sure Young Farmers’ Club members know their local dealer means they will also know where to find advice on safe operation. Honda’s ATV line-up includes utility models from 250–680cc, so there are machines suitable for all applications from ‘field walking’ and equestrian use to heavy arable tasks and forestry. The brand will be represented by local dealers at most county shows while, at many larger and national events, Honda UK will be in attendance with a display of machines and accessories from leading manufacturers, usually assisted by dealers from the area. Whether you are a current user or considering the purchase of your first ATV, a visit to the Honda dealer’s stand at your local show will be an ideal opportunity to find out about the machines, and accessories for your application, or to seek advice on safe operation and training. Honda will be attending the following shows over the summer; The Royal High Land Show 23rd26th June, The Royal Welsh Show 18th-21st July and The Game Fair 29th-31st July. June 2016 | Farming Monthly | 57