THERE has never been a more vital time for farmers and agricultural contractors to make decisions about new purchases which could improve efficiency and profitability, which is why YAMS 8 is an ideal opportunity to view the latest models in farm machinery from all around the world in one place, on one day.

The eighth Yorkshire Agricultural Machinery Show – held at the York Auction Centre in Murton – has become the flagship event for the farm machinery industry in Yorkshire and surrounding counties since it was launched in 2014.

Founder and organiser Richard Tasker has been heartened by the positive reaction he's received during the organisation of this year’s show, which is set to take place next Wednesday, February 2.

“Everyone is delighted YAMS is back. One of the quotes I feel best sums up YAMS is that ‘it’s not stuff designed for the Great Plains, it’s proper equipment on show that we use in Yorkshire’.

“That’s because the farm machinery trade stands are largely all booked and manned by local operators and some local manufacturers who implicitly understand their customers’ requirements.

“This is where our trade stand holders come into their own.

"They know the farm machinery that is most applicable to their areas and they stock accordingly. Where YAMS scores among all of our visitors is that this is the one specific day in the year when all of the manufacturers’ representatives, and in some cases their managing directors, are on hand to explain the benefits of their new machines and equipment and how they can help Yorkshire’s farmers.

Richard, who is also the organiser of the renowned, regular York Machinery Sales, said this year’s YAMS is set to be a launch platform for many new lines from those attending, and will no doubt attract a great deal of interest.

“On-board technology assisting operators in tractor and harvester cabs is seeing an exponential rise in operator comfort and cropping and soil information," he said.

“Farmers and contractors will be able to see how new developments have led to on-board kit that means a tractor operator working in a field where compaction is an issue can deflate the tyres accordingly then reinflate them when it is back on the road or on firmer terrain. That’s from tractor manufacturer Fendt.

“We will also see the debut of the first all-electric telescopic handler from Merlo.

Richard is proud that YAMS continues to grow.

“YAMS has grown tremendously since we held that first show in 2014. I had no idea of the size it would grow to, which this year will once again see us with around 200 trade stands and, I would imagine, around 10,000 visitors.

“YAMS reflects what is going on in the farming world, not just through the machinery businesses but all sectors of agriculture. Everyone has to be aware of their bottom line, of improving profit margins, working more efficiently and finding the right fix that works for them."

Richard said that in addition to farm machinery the professional advice on hand at the show from Stephensons Rural, the RPA, DEFRA and the NFU is invaluable in guiding farmers through what's happening in agriculture.

“There are a whole raft of grant schemes available at present. Our Stephensons rural team based here at Murton will be on hand to show farmers how best to take advantage of what's on offer – and to explain such as carbon sequestration in basic terms."

YAMS has adequate free on-field car parking available at the York Auction Centre site, as well as overspill parking – which is well marked – close by. There is also a highly efficient park & ride bus service from Grimston Bar. This is signposted from the A64 and offers easy car parking just five minutes from the show ground.