Managing multiple sites and tight schedules relies on efficiency. For Charlie Kerr, owner of Kerrs Ground Services Ltd, investing in cutting-edge robotic technology has transformed the way he works.
Charlie’s passion for turf management began more than a decade ago and continues with his commitment to new tech in the shape of the RM21 Combo Mower.
“I started working at a school mainly on cricket and rugby pitches,” he explained. “That’s where I got the bug for being a groundsman. From there I joined a sports turf contracting company, then worked at Dartford FC for a few years before moving on to Chelsea FC.”
After a short stint away from the industry, Charlie found himself missing life on the turf. “I started with small maintenance jobs but it wasn’t the same. I got back into football when Cray Wanderers FC needed a groundsman and things just took off from there.
Now I look after Cray Wanderers FC, Welling United FC, carry out some work at Sidcup Rugby Club, and a few private sites too.”
Challenging logistics
Managing several venues meant long hours and challenging logistics – until Charlie chose a robotic future. “I was spending four or five hours every Friday marking pitches by hand. In winter, when the days are shorter, it was brutal.
“Then I saw the RM21 on my phone one night and thought, ‘That looks incredible’ A mower and a line marker in one? I booked a demo straight away – and I was blown away.”
The RM21, distributed exclusively by Agrovista Amenity in partnership with XDC, is a fully autonomous unit that cuts and line marks simultaneously, using GPS technology. Controlled via a tablet or mobile app, it allows users to map, edit and save pitch layouts, meaning even complex training grids or tournament layouts can be recreated at the touch of a button.
Charlie soon saw the benefits. “I’ve left the RM21 cutting at Welling while I’m doing other work at Cray Wanderers – it’s like having an extra employee, allowing me to do two days’ work in one.”
Time and materials savings
Since introducing the mower, Charlie has noticed huge savings in both time and materials.
“I’m using less paint than before. One tank of concentrate now does all my pitches. The lines are cleaner, brighter and perfectly straight – and I don’t have to mess around with strings and pegs every week.”
The machine offers two operation modes: high-efficiency for quick turnarounds and precision mode for detailed line marking, ensuring professional results for every situation.
Battery performance has also impressed him. “Around 12 hours of line marking or five hours of mowing on a full charge. I’ve marked and cut multiple sites in one day without even dropping below half a battery.”
New business
Noise and safety were also big factors, especially when working around busy community grounds. “It’s so quiet you can’t hear it from the other side of the pitch. I’ve used it at seven in the morning and no one even noticed. Plus, it’s much safer than using big tractors when you’ve got dog walkers and kids around.”
The unit’s compact size and portability mean Charlie can easily move it between sites.
“It drives straight on to my trailer – simple as that. If I get a last-minute call for a pitch, I can be in and out in an hour. It’s a complete game-changer.”
Charlie’s experience has been so positive he’s already thinking about expanding. “I’ve started promoting GPS line marking on social media and had new enquiries coming in already. There’s nothing else like it in this area – and with the time I save, I can take on more work without burning out. I call it my ‘Kerminator’ – and it’s living up to the name!”
https://amenity.agrovista.co.uk/