The Hunt is Over

Earlier this year, Etesia ran a competition titled ‘The Hunt is on’. The aim was to find the oldest working Hydro 100 ride-on mower from across Europe.

After receiving hundreds of entries from users still using their respective machines, it came down to two entries which were determined by only two months. The winner, Iain Hart of Lincolnshire was still using his H100 which was first registered in 1990 until the day before he exchanged it for a brand new Hydro 100 Evolution, worth over £8,500.

Iain’s machine, which has nearly 2,500 hours on the clock, has been in his family since new, with his father-in-law originally purchasing the mower back in 1990 from their local Etesia dealer at the time, Chandlers (Farm Equipment). The new Hydro 100 model was presented to Iain and his family at new Etesia dealer Charles H. Hill, Woodhall Spa, Lincolnshire.

“The mower has been in our family since new with my father-in-law purchasing an ex-demonstration model,” said Iain. “I saw the competition details in a trade publication and had a chat with my father-in-law to see how old he thought it was. The mower was still doing a fantastic job and was easy to use, so I was surprised just how old it was at first.

“Etesia manufacture very reliable and long lasting equipment suitable for large domestic users or full time contractors like me. The mower has made mowing long, wet grass possible because of the way it collect and does not block.”

The fact that the mower is still working just as good now as it did over twenty years ago is a credit to the excellent service that Iain has received from his Etesia dealer. “I’ve dealt with Charles Hill for a number of years and their staff are all very knowledgeable with a well stocked parts department.”   

The new Hydro 100 Evolution has a unique concept that cuts and collects grass in all weathers, even the pouring rain. Top quality manufacturing allows mowing, season after season, ensuring that this machine out-performs all other ride-on mowers in its class. A more powerful engine, large capacity 500 litre grass collector which is emptied without leaving the driver’s seat and more operator comfort sees the Hydro 100 Evolution really setting the standard for all ride-on mowers.

“The competition and level of the entrants really surprised us,” said Les Malin, Etesia UK’s General Manager. “Our network of dealers scoured the country and beyond to find the oldest working machine and when we found Iain’s mower, we were pleasantly surprised in what good condition it was in.

“This competition has made us look at and appreciate the mowers we design and manufacture. When people see how long that they have lasted, they will realise what we tell them is true. Our build quality is far superior and that is why we tell customers to examine entire life-time costs and not just the new price when looking to purchase any new product.”

Iain’s old machine will now take pride of place in the reception area of Etesia UK’s head office in Shenington, Oxfordshire.