The BASIS Award is the national qualification for all those advising on the use, selling or supplying of plant protection products in the amenity industry. It is designed to enhance the understanding of turfgrass management, pest, weed and disease control, environmental issues and legislation. Those who gain the certificate become members of the BASIS Professional register.

Adam and David, who have both been working for Sherriff Amenity for five years, prepared for the exam by spending three weeks at the Sports Turf Research Institute (STRI) where they were educated by STRI’s Head of Research Dr Ruth Mann and researcher Christian Spring. The training was followed by two days of exams which Adam and David passed and in doing so ensuring that Sherriff Amenity maintain their 100% pass rate for all members of staff.

Commenting on his new qualification, David said: “It has definitely given me more of an understanding in turf management and I think it provides customers with a greater confidence in your abilities. Everybody selling chemicals should have one but unfortunately not everyone does. A major benefit is that I am now qualified to advise my customer on their exact requirements"

Adam was also upbeat about passing the exam: “I’ve learnt a lot of valuable information such as the importance of understanding active ingredients and how they work within the plant. I now feel extremely confident in recommending chemicals to my clients,” he said.

Adam will now be looking forward to advising his clients on products and nutritional programmes in the areas of Dorset, Hampshire and Sussex, whilst David will be attending to the areas of Devon, Cornwall and Somerset.