Spuds, Skills and Safety: Forklift Refresh at John Knox Farms

Tim Benton • July 3, 2025

Keeping things moving (and lifting) as the busy season kicks off.

TL;DR (5 bullet points):

  • 🥔 John Knox Farms refreshed their B1 forklift certificates ahead of harvest.
  • đźšś B1 = counterbalance forklifts up to 5 tonnes – essential for farm logistics.
  • 📍 Training was delivered on-site using their own machine, keeping it practical and low-fuss.
  • 🛡 Refresher training keeps operators safe, sharp and compliant during peak periods.
  • 👨‍🏫 Delivered by Wight Training Services, covering the Isle of Wight and beyond.

B1 Forklift Refresher at John Knox Farms

With harvest looming and another bumper season ahead, John Knox Farms Ltd didn’t wait for problems to arise – they got ahead of the game. Luke and Tim recently completed their B1 counterbalance forklift refresher training with Wight Training Services, ensuring they’re up to speed and safe for the busy months to come.


Based on the Isle of Wight, John Knox Farms specialises in potatoes, cereals and maize – with their spuds ending up in chip shops and snack packets right across the UK. From local takeaways to brands like McCain and KP, their produce travels far – but it all starts with smooth, safe operations on the farm.

The B1 forklift qualification covers counterbalance forklifts up to 5 tonnes – the sort of kit regularly used on farms for moving crates, pallets and produce. For Luke and Tim, refreshing their certificate means peace of mind during peak season.


“In farming, timing is everything – and so is safety. A forklift refresher might only take a day, but the benefits last all year,” says Tim Benton of Wight Training Services.
“It’s great to see small, hardworking farms like John Knox staying proactive and keeping their standards high.”

Training took place on-site using their own forklift, keeping things relevant, efficient and cost-effective – the Wight Training way.

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