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Vintage vehicles

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Tractors

British heritage is being preserved through a local tractor club, writes Peter Waghorn.

The North Worcestershire Vintage Tractor and Engine Club was first conceived some 20 or more years ago when a small group of preservation enthusiasts got together and formed a small alliance.

It was decided to seek membership of the National Vintage Tractor and Engine Club and the group became Group 27, the North Worcestershire Group.

There is currently a membership of about 200, including families and companions. Meetings take place on the second Wednesday of each month at Beoley Village Hall. The exception to this timetable is July and August when there are no club meetings.

The club’s monthly events take the form of presentations by invited guests and speakers on a variety of vintage subjects. They are social evenings, when a simple drink and a chat amongst fellow enthusiasts can solve many a technical issue.

The club holds an AGM and elects a full committee to administer the events, activities and finances. Most members represent the club locally and nationally.

Competition ploughing matches, exhibiting in rallies and road runs and other vintage events continue throughout the year.

Membership is not determined by ownership of a tractor alone – members’ interests vary from agricultural or horticultural to vintage motor cycles, oil and stationary engines and bicycles, to name a few.

Several years ago, in the club’s early days, it was decided to run an Annual Vintage Gathering, mainly involving just the members. This was held in Studley and was initially known as the Studley Vintage Gathering.

But, like many events, it outgrew that location and was moved to S E Davis & Sons, Sandhills Farm, Edgioake Lane, Astwood Bank, by the kind permission of owner Mr Bob Davis. The event has long since been open to the public.

The aim is to preserve British heritage of days gone by. Museums are fine, but to see and witness vintage machinery and vehicles working is a sight to behold.

This year’s event, on June 10-11, will feature vintage tractors, horticultural equipment, steam engines, oil engines, heavy horses, ring events and much more. The event is aimed at the whole family, with refreshments, a fun fair and tractor rides.

While an event like this costs a lot of money, after the club has recovered its initial outlay of set-up costs, any profit made goes to charitable organisations. For example, the County Air Ambulance is a major benefactor, plus additional donations are handed to local Scout and church groups.

It is a wonderful day out – please come along to join in the fun and take yourself back in time. New members are always welcome; whilst attending the show, come and visit the club’s stand and discuss joining.

For more information call Club Secretary Paul Whitehouse on 0121 453 8436.

* The North Worcestershire Vintage Tractor and Engine Club and Wythall Young Farmers take part in a Ploughing Match on September 3 – details from John Davies on 01527 62660.