AN AGRICULTURAL supplier has teamed up with a market-leading machinery manufacturer – meaning it can now offer farmers a way of dealing with potential straw shortages.

Carr’s Billington's six machinery depots will now be stocking Teagle's range of bale processors, fertiliser and muck spreaders, cultivators and swath conditioners.

Carr’s Billington’s machinery director Ian Gate said the franchise could have an immediate benefit for farmers in northern England and Southern Scotland.

He said: “We are delighted to be stocking a fantastic range of precision-made products manufactured by a tried-and-tested expert in this field.

“And while Teagle has a wide range of great products, what is particularly timely is that they are renowned for the quality of their bale processors. At a time when many farmers are facing up to potential straw shortages, knowing we can offer them a solution to make that precious straw go further is a real plus.”

Straw crop harvests have been generally poor this year, leaving some farmers calculating whether they will have enough to bed and feed their animals over the winter.

Mr Gate said: “A whole bale of straw can be very quickly used up when using traditional methods to distribute for cattle and sheep. But these bale processors tease out the right amount and distribute it efficiently so farmers only use as much as they need. It’s a very effective way of working.”

Teagle boasts 13 products across its bale processing range, including the renowned tractor-mounted Tomahawks and the Telehawk, for loose housing that does not require a tractor.

Carr’s Billington has taken delivery of its first products from the Teagle range at its machinery depots in Carlisle, Penrith, Hexham, Barnard Castle, Morpeth and Annan, and is offering demonstrations for farmers.

Paul Curnow, Teagle’s UK and Ireland sales manager, said: “We’re delighted to be partnering with Carr’s Billington. Our companies share the same customer-focussed values and the multiple Carr’s Billington branches provide us with excellent representation.”

Teagle completes a hat-trick of big-name suppliers secured this year by Carr’s Billington. In January, the company was appointed a dealer for Horsch and that was followed by a deal with flagship plough manufacturer, Ovlac.