BBC SHINES A LIGHT ON BRITISH MOWER PRODUCTION

Toro U.K. Limited, home of the British lawnmower brand Hayter, appeared on the BBC’s Inside the Factory programme this week (3rd February 2026).

In the Season 10 episode shown on BBC One and now available on iPlayer, presenters Paddy McGuinness and Cherry Healey went behind the scenes at the Hertfordshire factory to discover how the Hayter Harrier mower is made. Filmed over three days, Paddy followed the full build journey - from raw materials to assembly of the finished rear-roller mower - and even tested his craftsmanship by mowing his own lawn stripes.

Dealers will be able to find out more about what went on during the making of the show in the upcoming issue of Service Dealer magazine, where sales and marketing manager, Craig Hoare, gives us an exclusive insight into filming.

Founded in 1946 by Douglas Hayter, the brand celebrates its 80th anniversary this year. A spokesperson for the company said, "What began in a small workshop in Spellbrook with a handmade rotary mower has grown into a British engineering success story. Toro U.K.’s Spellbrook factory which produces thousands of mowers each year for both homeowners and professional users worldwide. Hayter received its first Royal Warrant in 1960, a seal of approval it continues to hold today, now granted by His Majesty King Charles III."

The Harrier, first launched by Douglas Hayter in 1970 and still going strong 55 years later, takes centre stage in the episode, showcasing the craftsmanship that has sustained its popularity for over half a century. Viewers follow Paddy through each stage of its build as components are laser cut, welded, painted and assembled on the production line, before the finished mowers are dispatched across the UK and Ireland.

Craig Hoare said, “We’re extremely proud to feature on BBC’s Inside the Factory. The Harrier is a much loved mower with fans across the country, and it was a pleasure to welcome Paddy, Cherry and the film crew to show how it’s made.”