Conrad Dilkes, Highways Manager for Powys County Council (left), received the keys to the first batch of five Merlo handlers, from Robert Pugh (right) and Merlo Regional Business Manager, Glyn Stanton (centre). Photo by courtesy of The County Times, Newtown, Powys.

The deal for these, five 2.8 tonne capacity P28.7 EVS and three turbo-powered EVT models, followed an extended hire of a three tonne Merlo last year. They will be used for general yard work and salt handling throughout the county, where their hydrostatic transmissions and compact dimensions will be a boon to their drivers.

Robert and Caroline Pugh started their business in 1978, and have been Merlo dealers since 1998, selling mainly the farm specification TurboFarmer machines.

Powys County Council choose Merlo

Many Local Authorities are well-established users of handlers and Powys County Council has recently purchased eight Merlo handlers for its Highways Department, from Churchstoke dealer R.V.W. Pugh Ltd.

Dealer principal, Robert Pugh, said he was 'delighted' that Powys County Council had chosen a Powys-based supplier for their handlers and says that the ease of driving and 'well above average reliability' are the main reasons for their product choice.

That's typical of Local Authorities who have purchased Merlo machines. They often have to work in very confined yard area, and under considerable time pressure during the salting season. The safety and ease of control of Merlo handlers is a very considerable advantage under these circumstances

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