A FARMER in one of Scotland's most remote areas has given a big thumbs up to a new scheme which offers the use of a courtesy ATV while your own is on for repair or servicing.

Shetland farmer, Chris Anderson and his son, David, of Gulberwick, were able to continue tending to their sheep and young ewes, while their machine was undergoing a service courtesy of scheme offered by his local dealer via a Suzuki initiative.

This kept his business going during the busy lambing season and, says Suzuki ATV, is a scheme set up in recognition of the fact that ATVs are vital tools for farmers' everyday tasks.

With assistance from local dealer, Garriock Brothers, the Andersons were loaned a Suzuki LT-A500XP KingQuad for three days - and were so impressed with it they ended up buying it for use at both of their holdings in Gulberwick and Skeld. Its power steering was a particularly welcome innovation: "It's is an excellent all-round machine. The addition of power steering gives ease of manoeuvrability, great control and responsiveness," commented Chris.

"Plus, the low box allows you to reduce revs and speed, which is essential for control when on steep ground and rough terrain."

Ian Leiper, of Garriock Brothers, added: "This has been a great marketing tool for both us and Suzuki in Shetland as it allows our potential new customers to 'try before they buy' and confirms to them the quality, build and design of Suzuki ATVs.

"We have also been able to offer this Courtesy ATV to existing Suzuki customers who put their quads in for service, giving them a taste of the latest product developments from Suzuki. I am not aware of any other manufacturer who offers anything like this," he said.