The FTMTA auction was a great success with plenty of machinery changing hands on the day. Bidders from all across Ireland and Europe bid in person and online to secure their purchases. Peter Thomas Keaveney gives a rundown of some of the machines that fell to the gavel with some great value on the day for bidders.

Dairy cows tend to milk best when eating fresh grass which is why we have taken a look at zero-grazing in our winter feed equipment focus. Weather and proximity to the grazing platform might not allow for grass to be grazed on some farms but one contractor in West Cork is extending his grass harvesting season, by offering this service with growing demand. We also take a look at a large dairy farm in Northern Ireland feeding more than 450 cows with one diet feeder. The twin tub machine is kept busy working all year round.

The grain harvest is all but finished but gathering the straw is stubbornly dragging on. Alistair Chambers takes a look at the different options farmers can use to aid in drying straw before it is baled. Every opportunity is vital, if any attempt is to be made to save this now very valuable crop this year. Patience above all else is what is needed in abundance.

Peter Young steps back in history with a visit to a threshing using a machine originally owned by Canon Bagot. A formidable man with a fascinating history.