Steve Bullman

STIHL has expanded its hedge-trimmer line-up with the launch of new high-performance long-reach models, the HLA 150 B and the HLA 140 K-B and B. Designed for demanding landscaping applications, the new machines deliver powerful battery performance for trimming tall hedges safely and efficiently from ground level. The HLA 150 B’s telescopic shaft allows the user to adjust its length between 207-332cm without the need for additional tools, providing greater flexibility when working at height. This enables efficient maintenance of tall and wide hedges, bushes, and shrubs. Its double-sided, double-edged blades also allows users to achieve a clean cut and rapid progress for maximum productivity, even when working with overgrown hedges or tough material. The tool’s cutter bar can be adjusted between 145 degrees, allowing professionals to trim the top, sides and bottom of hedges easily. The HLA 140 models’ fixed length shafts are designed to provide stability and control for flexible working at low, mid, and high levels, with the added benefit of keeping the cutting attachment away from the user. The shorter, fixed shaft HLA 140 K-B offers a length of 214cm, while the longer fixed shaft model, the HLA 140 B has an overall length of 245cm. Thanks to their battery operation, the machines’ powerful motors are exceptionally quiet during use, making them ideal for work in noise-sensitive environments. In addition, their anti-lock function prevents the jamming of blades to maintain consistent cutting performance, while their robust design, including metal mesh air-filters, ensure a long-service life for professional use. Powered by EC motors, the tools’ blades are capable of rapid acceleration, helping users to get the best cutting performance. Both models are also easily regulated continuously using their throttle lever, with 3 blade speed settings to choose from with the simple press of a button. This means thicker branches can be cut effectively at lower blade speeds with high torque, while their high-speed modes produce a cleaner and neater cut when trimming finer leaved hedges and shrubs. All models are equipped with a HMI Advance Plus module with Bluetooth and STIHL Connected to support digital fleet management. Each tool also displays its operating mode on a LED control panel. Designed to meet the requirements of professional users, their battery housing compartments are robust, and the placement of all components mean they offer excellent balance for prolonged user comfort, while the tools‘ IPX 4-rating makes them safe for use in wet conditions. STIHL also offer a range of accessories to help users get the best out of their tools. With the new HLA range, the X-Treem HL/HT shoulder harness combines with the X-Flex Forestry belt to take the weight of the machine and allows the user to focus on guidance and accurate cutting. The battery can also be placed in an external AP battery holster on the belt to save weight. The 2026 additions arrive as STIHL celebrates its 100th anniversary. Since 1926, STIHL has defined the global standard for battery and petrol-powered forestry, landscaping, and residential gardening equipment for professional and domestic users. For more information on STIHL products, visit www.stihl.co.uk or contact your nearest STIHL Approved Dealer. Find out more about STIHL’s historic milestone, here: https://100.stihl.com.

Having read about the positive experiences of other clubs making the switch, the team at Gloucestershire’s Minchinhampton Golf Club are themselves now discovering the efficiency and safety benefits of Aspen alkylate petrol. Used across a suite of 2-stroke equipment, club Mechanic Tom Dorey notes the significant reduction in costly faults and breakdowns, while its delivery by the barrel has reduced the time and risks associated with transporting fuel from the forecourt. Minchinhampton comprises of 36-holes at the New Course site along with a further 18-holes at the historic Old Course – established in 1889 and situated 4 miles away on SSSI common land, managed in partnership with the National Trust. The third, the parkland Avening Course, has been used on multiple occasions as an Open Qualifying venue. Looking after the maintenance is a team of 17 greenkeepers who, alongside Mechanic Tom, keep the large machinery fleet and busy courses in tip-top condition. “I was familiar with Aspen Fuel from personal experience but was seeing more articles in the press about facilities switching over and felt it was worth exploring” explains Tom. “We spoke with some other golf clubs and then met with Aspen’s Roy Narbey at BTME in 2025 who arranged a trial of Aspen-2 for us. The rest, as they say, is history and we’ve recently just taken delivery of our second barrel.” Being virtually free from ethanol, aromatics and benzene Aspen alkylate petrol presents a 99% cleaner fuel when compared with traditional pump fuel. The significantly reduced emissions not only benefit the health and safety of the operator but also contributes to increased sustainability standards, helping the team to meet the courses environmental responsibilities. Like other Aspen users, Minchinhampton quickly discovered the immediate benefits but were pleasantly surprised by the further ‘wins’ that came from the switch. “The difference was notable almost immediately. The team all commented on the better working environment when using tools such as backpack blowers and hedgecutters and reported the reduction in fumes and headaches as soon as we switched.” Tom adds, “In the workshop, servicing of the equipment is now much simpler. I haven’t had to spend time repairing or replacing gummed up carburettors, saving us money and enhancing the overall lifespan of the engines and the equipment.” Aspen-2’s pre-mixed formula has also eliminated issues with incorrect mixture ratios. “Convenience has been another big plus point, with the fuel readily available on site, pre-mixed so there’s no risk of issues associated with incorrect fuel and oil ratios.” “The support from Roy throughout the trial and in getting us up and running has also been brilliant. He gave us lots of hints and tips for correct pump operation and getting the most from our equipment.” He concludes, “The experience has been incredibly positive and eventually we hope to extend our use to Aspen-4 for the cleaner running of some of our larger equipment.”