Two rare machines will be up for sale along with several uncommon tractors at an antiques auction due to take place on November 12

Believed to be one of a kind is an International Harvester B414 Tractor registration no: LBF 390D understood to have been purchased in the 1960s by Boulton Paul Aircraft Limited. Having developed light and reliable aviation-related hydraulic drive systems, including for World War 2 gun turrets, more recently systems for Concorde, the Eurofighter and Airbus, the company obviously had great faith in the durability of such a system in the tough agricultural environment with its heavy demands amidst dust, moisture, vibration and variations in temperature. The movement of a single lever enables the tractor to go from full ahead to full reverse. The use of this type of system sadly was not pursued, probably having lost momentum due to a take-over of the company and the accompanying awareness of costs. The ownership of the tractor; subsequent to the company’s takeover, passed through various hands and it unfortunately took on a rather neglected appearance. It is understood that it eventually again came to light and was restored by Boulton Paul Heritage Projects, the approximately 780 hours work being completed in April 2005. This is a likely once in a lifetime opportunity to purchase such an unique machine, which will undoubtedly create great interest wherever it goes. The other rare tractor is an E1A Fordson Major KFD 68 Diesel produced by Stormont Engineering in the 1950s and is a low-clearance orchard tractor with down-swept exhaust and running on 28" diameter rear wheels. The lower centre of gravity also made these popular with hill farmers. Another diesel vintage tractor at the sale is an industrial E1A Fordson Major on 24" rear wheels with a "Skyhi" loader whilst Petrol/T.V.O. tractors include an E1A Fordson Major, a Nuffield M4, a David Brown Cropmaster with loader and a fully restored Allis Chalmers model U, (Registered GVJ 2) which started life at a farm only a handful of miles from the Salerooms at Pontrilas. All of the tractors are in running condition. Further information may be obtained from Nigel Ward & Co., Tel (01981) 240140.