A Norfolk based equestrian and livestock supplier has recently taken delivery of an Avant 420 mini articulated loader to help streamline a rapidly expanding workload.
Although John Egmore started his business back in 1999 it has only been during the last couple of years that it has really taken off with help from his two sons and partner Nicola.
Mr. Egmore soon realised that he needed some mechanical assistance in order to help keep pace with the order book - in particular a growing demand from racing stables in Newmarket for bulk supplies of baled wood shavings. However, the type of machine that would fit the bill needed to be light enough to be transported on the firm's delivery truck, highly manoeuvrable, versatile and capable of handling up to ¾ tonne loads.
As soon as he spotted an Avant in the trade press, Mr. Egmore knew that his search was over and so an order placed with local dealer, Avant Plant Sales of Thetford. However, rather than Avant's standard bright green colour, a striking silver and red livery was specified to match the company's delivery vehicle.
Commenting on his new Avant, Mr. Egmore said: "The machine is proving to be a fantastic asset as I can now easily deliver up to 3000 bales of shavings every week and it will also come into its own in connection with fencing work and field shelter construction."
The 420 model selected by Mr. Egmore is powered by a reliable Kubota 14 kW (20 hp) engine and features an off-centre boom to provide the driver with an unrestricted view of the job in hand. Weighing in at 980 kg, the machine is equipped as standard with a ROPS safety frame with a tinted plexiglass roof cover and its hydrostatic drive gives a useful speed range from 0 - 12 km/h.