Educating the Next Generation of Fencing Contractors
Reaseheath College & University Centre is one of the UK’s leading specialist education centres, located in Nantwich, Cheshire. It offers a wide range of full-time diplomas, apprenticeships, and degrees, particularly focused on land-based industries. Covering over 330 hectares, fencing is an ongoing need at Reaseheath.
Malcolm Blackford from Tornado recently caught up with Shrewsbury-based fencing contractor Sam Hamer of Hamer Fencing Ltd, who has just completed 7,500m of livestock fencing as part of a 30,000m project at the college.
Sam shared, “With Reaseheath developing the next generation of farmers, it seemed only right we should be using the latest technologies and materials when fencing on the farm. With this in mind, for the majority of the fencing project we are using Tornado Torus Lambsafe installed on Tornado Clipex with the new Tornado Pro-Strain metal straining system, as well as traditional timber posts in some sections.”
When asked about the new Pro-Strain System, Sam commented:
“It was far easier and quicker to install than timber and, given its longevity, is definitely something I would like to work with in the future. I was slightly concerned how steel posts would look in an agricultural setting, but I was pleasantly surprised how it blends in with the background.
“I particularly like the different size breast plates available. The ground conditions vary throughout the farm, and I was able to select larger plates when working in softer ground conditions. The adjustable struts also work really well, with 200mm of adjustment enabling you to avoid obstacles like tree roots when installing the strut pegs. Pro-Strain gives you the ability to pre-load tension onto the straining posts, which you just can’t do with timber.”
During the project, some students participated in an estate management course. Sam took the time to explain the principles and importance of installing fences to the correct standard. He also demonstrated how to tie and join wire. Several students quickly picked up these skills, showcasing their potential to become the next generation of fencing contractors.
Tornado Pro-Strain has been shortlisted in the LAMMA 2025 Innovation Awards in the Livestock of the Year category. It will be showcased at the exhibition on stand 7500, alongside new nets manufactured specifically for the Tornado Clipex posts.
For more information, visit:
