Steaming 1963 Vol.7 No.4

rVol. 7 No. 4 October 1963

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NATIONAL TRACTION ENGINE CLUB

OFFICERS FOR 1964 Chairman : REVD. PHILIP WRIGHT, M.B.E., Hon.C.F., The Vicarage, Woodford Bridge, Essex. Vice-Chairman and Editor : J. CRAWLEY, ESQ., Field House, Turvey, Bedford. General Secretary : E. A. FILLMORE, ESQ., 34 Northwick Park Road, Harrow, Middx. Membership Secretary (including ties and badges): J. G. HUTCHENS, ESQ., A.31 Cafe, Trickctts Cross, Fcrndown, Wimborne, Dorset. Assistant Membership Secretary : J. R. BONSER, ESQ., 6 Rokeby Gardens, Woodford Green, Essex. Treasurer: H. ORR-EWING, ESQ., 8 Robert Close, Randolph Avenue, London, W.9. Committee : P. G. BARBER, ESQ., Hayesfield, Stonehenge Road, Amesbury, Salisbury, Wilts. P. R. BARKER, ESQ., Hatch Gate Farm, Hurst, Reading, Berks. J. R. BEEBY, ESQ., Wymeswold, Rempstone, Loughborough, Leics. A. E. DEANS, ESQ., London Road, Baldock, Herts. A. FENSOM, EsQ., 28 Parkfield, Markyate, St. Albans, Herts. J. T. FENSOM, EsQ., Friar's Walsh, Flamstead, St. Albans, Herts. G. R. HAWTHORNE, ESQ., Cleveland, Bridge Path, Woodcote, Reading, Beiks. A. S. HEAL, EsQ., Baylins Farm, Knotty Green, Beaconsfield. J. S. HIRONS, ESQ., Croft Close, Hailey Road, Witney, Oxon. A. C. NAPPER, EsQ., Bridge Farm, Appleford, Abingdon, Berks. S. NEVILLE, ESQ., 37 Landscape View, Saffron Walden, Essex. T. B. PAISLEY, ESQ., Manor Farm, Holyw•ell, Huntingdon. F. G. UPTON, ESQ., 24 Windsor Road, Maidenhead, Berks. S. J. WHARTON, ESQ., Southern Down, Minster Lovell, Oxford.

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS W. • J. CARTER, ESQ, G. E. S. LEA, ESQ.

J. P. MULLETT, ESQ. J. WILKINSON, ESQ.

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EDITORIAL WITH yet another Rally Season behind us we must congratulate those organisers who were lucky enough to pick the day that Summer came this year op which to hold their rallies, and to commiserate with all those secretaries (the Editor included) who are now walking around with webbed feet, not to mention the Club treasurers who even now are only able to stagger. But to take a more serious view, great credit is due to those organisers who, despite quite impossible conditions, did their best to see that people, many of whom had travelled great distances, were not disappointed, and that engines were in steam if not mobile. Attendances, despite the warnings of the pessimists, seemed in most cases to be well up on previous years, except of course where the weather was directly responsible. This issue appears later than usual as it has been held back to include details of the Officers elected at the A.G.M., together with a report of

the Club Dinner which followed the meeting. I am still receiving letters advising me of changes of address. These should be sent to the Secretary, as all address labels are prepared from stencils which he keeps up to date. Failure to notify him will lead to a delay in receiving Steaming. My recent appeal to help recruit new members to the club has caused a welcome increase, but there are still many enthusiasts you must meet locally who are not yet members. Please try to get them to join, as only by a bigger membership can we get a bigger and better magazine. Will any member interested in becoming an area correspondent please write to me, as there are still many areas not covered. Since this is the last issue before Christmas, may I take this opportunity of wishing you all the Compliments of the Season and good Steaming for 1964. JOHN CRAWLEY

FROM THE CHAIRMAN (Philip Wright's Column) LAST quarter in my notes I used the well-known quotation, " No new thing under the sun," but foolishly attributed it to the Book of Proverbs. I knew better, for in one of my books I have given its proper source—The Book of Ecclesiastes. Nevertheless it shows how closely our members read the column, for I jolly soon had a letter pointing out the error. The letter came in fact from Mr. C. H. Betts of Ilford. who has been a member of our club for many years, edits a railway magazine, and last but by no means least is a worthy treasurer of a church in Ilford.. In the " Fifty Years Ago " column of the Saffron Walden News I came across a further bit of proof of the very real opposition which early steam pioneers encountered. The whole style of the paragraph is couched in unkind terms in fact. I quote verbatim : " Another instance has occurred to prove the extreme danger to which persons are exposed in consequence of traction engines

being allowed on the roads. One employed in conveying coprolities from Abington Pigotts to Royston railway station has long been the terror of the surrounding neighbourhood, and on Wednesday evening, the 15th inst., it was the cause of a most alarming and ALMOST FATAL accident to Mr. George Smith of Royston who was driving his wife and daughter along the Kneesworth Road. On seeing the engine the horse took fright and overturned the phaeton upon a heap of stones. Mr. Smith fell upon his head and, when assistance arrived, he was found to be insensible, bleeding profusely from the mouth and nose. We are sorry to say he still lies in a precarious state. Miss Smith, unable to stand, was lifted into a carriage and conveyed home, and is still incapable of rising from her bed. Mrs. Smith was also much hurt, although not so seriously as her husband and daughter. A memorial to the government has been prepared and is being numerously signed condemning the use of traction engines on the public highway."

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I am afraid weddings and wet weather have made my rally total almost nil this year. I did journey to Wimbish and feel very sorry for the organisers for being washed out, and when they tried again at a later date it rained all morning and had a serious effect on the numbers and that day I could not attend. It has been indeed a long, expensive and at times almost heartbreaking wet harvest this year. On the 31st August I went down to that historic meadow Runnymede with its Magna Carta connection. Here was the annual Egham Agricultural Show, whose chairman Mr. Ward is a keen steam man. The National Club never let anybody down in this respect and I arrived to find three engines there. Frank Upton's Wallis & Steevens. and this having had a two-year renovation, looked fine.

Mr. Manning (Jnr.) was with Frank and the former's father also had a drive round. He is ninety-one and lives at Hurley, a wonderful old character, and the oldest man I have ever seen driving an engine. Mr. Jack Fensom and his son were there with his nice Burrell (1927 vintage, the last one exhibited new at the Royal Norfolk Show) ; I need not mention the fact that coming from the Fensom stable this engine is in superb order. So also was engine number three, the 1908 Burrell which recently went to Mr. Dick Barker of Edgware from Mr. Walter Keeling of Billericay after having been renovated by Mr. W. Parris. This engine featured in Messrs. Dunn's tailoring advert a couple of years ago. With Mr. Barker she is in good hands. I want to thank these three owners for letting me have a drive.

THE ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING '1HE Annual General Meeting took place at our usual venue of recent years—Bucklersbury House, in the City of London, on Saturday, 19th October. It was attended by 123 members of the Club under our Chairman, the Revd. Philip Wright, M.B.E. The Chairman opened the meeting with a warm welcome to all present. particularly those who had travelled a long way. This was followed by brief standing silence as a tribute to several members, some prominent, who had passed away during the year. In the course of his review of the past twelve months, he mentioned that the movement seemed to be gaining strength constantly. Particularly was this evident in the growing number of local clubs and groups, there being no less than sixteen in existence, the majority of them being affiliated to this Club. No less than thirty-seven rallies had been held up and down the country, many organised by these local groups, whilst Club members had been prominent in nearly every event. Turning to the Club Constitution, he mentioned that the present one was originally drawn up in 1955 and had been discussed

at some length by the retiring committee. In general it was thought that a certain amount of modernisation could take place in the light of changing conditions and to this end the new committee would investigate. In closing he thanked all members, engine owners and others who had assisted the movement throughout the year. The reports of the general and membership secretaries followed. The former made reference to the illness of both the Chairman and ViceChairman, whilst the latter indicated, that the Club had now something like 1,300 active members. The treasurer then made his report and submitted a balance sheet with statement of income and expenditure. In general the assets were slightly higher than the previous year, but the expenditure was still a little higher than the subscription income. Assuming no unexnedted occurrence, the position would be reversed by the end of the next Club year, when the increase in subscription to £1 approved in 1962 (and operative from August, 1963) would be apparent. After some questions and explanation the account was adopted.

STEAMING A minor amendment to the Club Rules followed. This was to permit new members to join and to enjoy a full year's membership with the first subscription, instead of only a fractional period. The membership secretary considered this would be fairer to those joining the Club and would also tend to " spread the load " in renewal subscriptions. No alteration was intended in the Club year. The amendment was carried. The election of officers and committee then took place. The names of those elected are as printed on the inside front cover and you will note the creation of a new assistant office to which Mr. Bonser was elected. A number of changes have taken place amongst committee members, but the officers are as last year. A Resolution submitted by member

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S. W. Neville then came under discussion. The object of this was to regularise and control as far as possible the various events held throughout the country and to endeavour to arrange for the major events not to clash. It was decided to refer this to the committee. The last main item was a Resolution submitted by member A. B. Oram who considered that the Club might take more active steps with tools, spare parts and repair services for Club members. Following a lively discussion, this item also was referred to the committee who will investigate the matter more fully in due course. The meeting closed with a vote of thanks to the Chairman for his able handling of the meeting. E.A.F.

FROM THE SECRETARY HAVE you had occasion to move an engine lately ? Do you ever send your engine a long distance ? Many of our members have low-loading road vehicles at their disposal and to them moving an engine is no problem. Recently, however, a number of cases have come to my notice of engines being moved by British Railways. In each instance the service has been good and the charge remarkably moderate. I do not think the railway compares with site to site transport by road ; but transit by goods train over long distances is worth considering particularly if the engine will stearn on and off the truck over a loading bay or dock if this is available. Anyhow it is worth consulting the local area goods manager. A research and development unit from a University visited the Apple-

ford Rally this year. A great many photographs were taken during the visit and now they have served their purpose are being made available for purchase by the public. They are a first class professional job and would appear good value for money. Details may be had from me or from Mr. P. Sullivan, "Cedars," Hulletts Lane, Pilgrims Hatch, Brentwood, Essex. May I close by expressing my thanks to all those members who have assisted me throughout the year. This has always been most generously and willingly given and has gone a long way towards what has been, I trust, the smooth working and administration of the Club's affairs. Finally, may I take this opportunity of wishing all members and their families a happy Christmas and a prosperous New Year. E.A.F.

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FODENS LTD. (Continued from the July issue) BY GEORGE E. S. LEA Mr. Edwin Foden, being a man of thought as welt as of action, a family conference was called to contemplate entering into the heavier carrying field. Due to legislation, a self-mover which was itself capable of carrying a load, had not, as yet, met with public approval. but as we now know, Mr. Foden very ably foresaw into the future that a commercial service which was capable of picking up and delivering from door to door was bound to make headway against the opposition and legislation which had been placed in its path. It was therefore decided, at the latter end of the 19th century, to start making their steam wagons, with which they were afterwards to become world famous. Mr. Edwin Foden built and discarded tour prototypes, the first one having a vertical two cylinder engine, an end tipper with rear wheel steering ; a quite successful vehicle, but not good enough for his perfectionist ways. The deciding type was a 5 tonner of the more orthodox construction as we remember them, and it was entered in the War Office Trials in 1901, to quite literally, steam away with the first prize of £250 as will be appreciated, reading from the' official War Office report: " Foden went through the road trial of 257 miles without a mishap or stoppage for repairs—which no other competitor did—and, as will be seen, was vastly superior to any other wagon and was awarded the £250 Prize." The Foden covered the 256.6 miles in 41 hours 43 minutes, using 3,108 lbs. of fuel and 1,909 gallons of water, an average of 2.42 lbs. of fuel per ton/mile, half that of the next nearest competitant. From this we see that Mr. Foden had again established himself as paramount for economy and reliability, a crowning success following his previous achievements at the traction engine trials. These first 5 tonners were two cylinder, overtype, compounds ; cylinders were h.p. 4 in. diameter and 1.p. 6-,t in. X 7 in. stroke, fitted with

the double-high system, as on the tractions, and the boiler pressed to 200 lbs. They were two-speed jobs having ratios of 9 to I and 24 to 1, three shaft lay-out and the final drive, from a sprocket set between the gear wheels on the counter shaft to the compensating gear on the rear axle was by a roller chain. They were guaranteed to climb a gradient of 1 in 6 with a full load of 5 tons on the wagon and 2 tons on a trailer, a load that was very often exceeded, I'm afraid. At this time they also brought out a light tractor for road haulage. This was a shortened version of the wagon and was classed as a 7 tanner, but being itself under 5 tons unladen weight, was able to take advantage of the Light Locomotive Act of 1903. Quite a number were supplied to showmen, fitted with an extended canopy to cover the dynamo fitted in the usual place, in front of the chimney, as also were many of the wagons for these could carry tackle as well as draw a trailer. The World's Carriers, a publication still in circulation, quotes for us: " The most successful makers . . . in 1905 were Messrs. Foden. The Foden wagon comes near to a positive triumph ... Congratulations. At a time when many users, having invested in more or less experimental vehicles, were declaring that the steam wagon was a failure, Messrs. Foden put on the market a thoroughly reliable machine, built with the strength and simplicity of a traction engine.. . . The result is that Messrs. Foden are now the leading makers of steam wagons." And I think you will agree that they maintained this lead until they ceased to make them. At the turn of the century the order books were full, for on top of their other success which we have mentioned, in 1891 they had also won the First Prize at the R.A.S,E. Trials for a Finishing Threshing Machine held at Doncaster, beating all comers, at these trials which were open to the world. There they dealt with 230 lbs. of sheaf corn per minute as against 186 lbs. per minute by the next best

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competitor and making the best sample of dressed grain into the bargain. This result was not really surprising to those who knew the firm intimately, as they were gaining firsthand experience by running five sets of threshing tackle themselves in the neighbourhood of Sandbach, Mr. William Foden himself being in charge of one set. As he recently remarked to me, " Aye, and we had to walk to the job, too, in those

days ". The export market also was now being opened to them, and expanding,

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been formed in conjunction with Mr. Foden had been incorporated. This machine, accompanied by another, an 8 h.p. single and a 6 h.p. compound, were taken by road to the showground towed by an 8 h.p. Showman's road locomotive, Mr. William Foden again being prominent by being the driver of the leading engine. At Atherstone

station, the eccentric straps were disconnected on the h.p. side and the valve centred. Then, by way of experiment, from here they carried on, using the big cylinder only, to the Showground on the outskirts of

Birmingham.

Foden 6 n.h.p. No. 331. Supplied new to A. Thomas Bellis. Later to Messrs. Carter's. Sold in their auction on 6th June, 1945. their products going chiefly to South Africa, South America and Australia, a large number of engines being taken amongst others by Messrs. Longwill Bros. and Davies, of Melbourne, who went out from England to haul timber in the backwoods of the latter continent, eventually to become the Foden Agents for Australia. These Colonial engines, as they were termed, were fitted with rails and more capacity to the bunker to hold logs of wood for firing, together with an extended firebox. In 1900, after it had been displayed at the Royal Show, Grandfather took delivery of another new thresher in which one or two ideas which had

As well as his compound, No. 215, Grandfather was also using a 6 h.p.

single then. In 1909 he went to

Sandbach to place his order for No. 1395, a pony and trap forming the means of personal transport in those days. Mr. Edwin Foden said to him:

" Sam'l, Sam'l. What's wrong with the old one 7—Lend me a bit of 'bacca for my pipe! " Whereby he took a pinch between his finger and thumb, popped it in his pipe and applied a light, continuing with, " You've surely not worn the old one out already, have you ? ", his interjection and request again being repeated, then after again re-lighting, " Nay, I see! I reckon that you just

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want to be in fashion and have a bit more brass to keep clean! " It was the year previous that the traction design had, again, been slightly modified, the plates on the valve covers becoming flush, with recessed letters and not raised lettering, the firebox made longer, the suction pipe to the feed-pump placed inside instead of on the outside of the belly tank, and the smokebox extended forward another three inches.

he would pick up a hammer and smash the offending article with, " Either it is right, or it is not. If it is not right, it is not going to a customer. That was not right and now I know where it is ". Another idiosyncracy that Mr. Foden had, was the fact that he would not, if he could possibly avoid it, fit a spud pan on the front axle of his engines. His contention was that these fitments collected a mass

The writer at the regulator of Foden Traction Engine No.

Just as a point of interest, the price paid for " 1395 " was £589, made up as follows: Basic price of a 6 h.p. compound mounted on springs £570, compounding costing £60 more than a single, to which must be added £8 extra for an injector, £5 for a coalrack round the top of the bunker, £18 for the front belly tank, and £3 for a copper top to the chimney, a total of £604 which was then subject to 22% discount, on top of which, the old engine, No. 215, was taken in part exchange. Another thing regarding the late Mr. Edwin Foden ; he would not tolerate indifferent workmanship. Walking through the shops, if he saw anything that was not up to standard,

2654.

of dust and chaff, along with other bits and pieces of junk, besides being used for their legitimate purpose, forming, in his own words, " A stinking mass of corruption! " Personally, I think that he was right, for the spuds could be carried under the machine, out of the way, or, what I think, is better still, on a bar on the side of the engine as with Burrells. With the outbreak of the 1914-18 war, the demand for their steam wagon was now exceeding the output of the works and the facilities were devoted almost entirely to producing them, very few going to the home market and these only to priority jobs, as the War Office had commandered their whole output. They were

STEAMING given a coat of paint, a licence slapped on to them in the works yard, and then loaded on to railway wagons in the local siding in the adjoining Sandbach station, from where they were shipped straight across to the active front in France. It is a great pity that Mr. Edwin Foden had to die at this time, but he had lived long enough to realise his ambitions and to see a successful outcome to all his trials and tribulations. In 1918, the manufacture of balers and threshers was discontinued and the last traction to be made here left the works in 1920, the policy now being to concentrate on the manufacture of road transport vehicles— a policy which history now appears to have proved correct, but which was a bold step for them to take at that time, for, as we have already mentioned, the War Office had taken practically their whole output of steam wagons, thus leaving the home market wide open for their competitors who, until now, had hardly had a look in. They must have surreptitiously rubbed their hands with joy, but on the cessation of hostilities, they had not reckoned with the redoubtable Mr. William Foden, for here was somebody who had not only gained experience in a practical way as we have already seen, but added to this fact, he had also had practical experience in works management and marketing as well whilst working under father, and also, like his father, he did not hesitate to take a decisive step. A step which must not have been easy for, on top of having to break back into the market which was now being saturated with exW.D. vehicles, another enemy had now made a bolder appearance—the petrol-engined vehicle, which had not offered a great deal of competition in the heavier classes previously to the war, but now was most certainly to be reckoned with. The 5 tonner, now more advanced in detail design and by now fitted on solid rubber tyres, was placed to meet this competition, a challenge which they successfully undertook again. It was on one of these 5 tonners, with a trailer attached, that a driver who is still in our employment began his driving career in 1921. His normal routine was to set off in the morning and deliver a load of

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threshed grain to Liverpool, thirtyeight miles distance, pick up a nine ton load of cattle feed, then return to base. The next day's work consisted of delivering the load, sometimes, if luck were in, to the local mill, or, otherwise, to farms, after which the outfit was re-loaded, ready for next morning, with farm produce. This was delivered at Burslem, near Stokeon-Trent, before 6 a.m., ready for when the market opened, after which, a load of manure was brought home from the Co-op stables—and this was thought to be an easy day! The Liverpool run used to take 4 cwt. of steam coal and water had to be taken on four times, although, running solo, without the trailer, he says that he has just managed it with three lots. Despite these steps, the journey could be accomplished in less time and at less cost than by an equivalent petrol-engined outfit hauling the same weight. Perhaps, though, we ought to agree with his remarks that it was certainly all work, eat and sleep, clinker-off, draw water and raise steam, not that that took long, for the boiler did not have much chance to go cold. No wonder, now, that he thinks it to be semi-retired, to sit in a totally enclosed cab with electric starting and a cab-heater! With 1923 came the introduction of the 6 tonner overtype to replace the faithful old 5 tonner. The standard form of cylinder arrangement was still retained, but these were increased to 4-1- in. and 7 in. X 7 in. stroke and the boiler pressure lifted to 220 lbs. p.s.i. They were fitted with Ackerman type steering, more protection for the driving crew, three speeds and internal expanding brakes on the rear wheels. An articulated version, having a shorter wheelbase, became available, and two years later a rigid six-wheeler, classed as a 10 tonner, came out. The final design of 6 tonner overtype evolved had the flywheel moved over to the right hand side, right hand steering, marine type big ends and roller races for the throws of the eccentrics, which were lubricated by oil gun. On solids, officially, they could do 12 m.p.h., but I know one driver who consistently did two trips a day with a wagon and trailer from Northwich to Liverpool, a minimum distance of 30 miles each way, and

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the time taken for loading and unloading had also to be taken into consideration, a performance that we cannot excel with our present-day vehicles. To meet the growing competition from the undertype makers, a 6 ton undertype was evolved in 1926. Whilst the overtype was the most accessible from a maintenance point of view and the locomotive type boiler was more economical from a steaming point of view, it had the drawback that it was more wasteful from the available loading space aspect. With the uudertype of usual construction we have a forward control cab housing a vertical boiler, delivering superheated steam to a two cylinder engine underslung from the chassis frame. This first Foden undertype, the " E " type, basically, followed this general design but the engine was placed transversely and used a shaft drive to the rear axle. Although not officially published from the works, rumour has it that this engine, with two double acting cylinders and poppet valves, could deliver 200 b.h.p. on the test bench. A short tractor version soon followed, the " M " type, for trailer haulage ; then came the " N " type

wagon in which the engine could deliver more power through attention having been paid to the steam flow through the ports and passages. The " N " type was the progenitor of the final design of steamer to be made at Sandbach, the " 0 " type, or as it was more usually known, the Speed-Six in the four wheel version and the Speed-Twelve in the rigid six-wheel version. These had a completely enclosed, fully forward-control cab design which housed a boiler placed " back to front " so that the c'iimney was at the rear of the cab. Actually, there were two designs of boiler fitted to these machines ; the first was a Cornish-flue type, set in the frame with a slight upwards rise to the smokebox end and which had the water tubes disposed in an Xformation in the flue. The superheater coil was set in the top V-part of the X formed by the tubes. In the second design, a round, stayless firebox was added to give greater steaming capacity and, if desired, hopper fed automatic stoking could be supplied. As in the " N" type, the engine was still located transversely under the frame, driving through a twospeed gearbox with direct top gear, then by open propeller shaft to the overhead worm-drive rear axle ; in fact the same axle as is used on

John Murphy's Fowler Showman's Engine No. 14111 " Gladiator " at Harrogate, on August 6th, 1937.

STEAMING several makes of present-day heavies. All wheels were shod with pneumatic tyres, 40 in. x 8 in., all had steamassisted internal expanding brakes and ran on taper roller bearings. " Speed " is a good definition in the title of this model. The official catalogue of the period openly stated that these machines were capable of 45 m.p.h. (The solo speed limit was 20 m.p.h. at this time!), but even here there must have been a bit of tongue in the cheek for I well recall one occasion, in 1931, when coming home from Liverpool with father when one of these vehicles passed us on the road approaching Knutsford. Our speedometer was showing 50 m.p.h. and father did his best to catch up with it to see just what he was clocking, but I am afraid that our vehicle just was not capable. And the Foden was loaded, too! It was very unfortunate that this design never really had a chance, for it was killed, soon after its introduction, by the Road Traffic Act of 1930/ 34, which restricted the axle weight to eight tons and the excise licence was based on unladen weight, thus forcing many of the faithful old steamers off the roads. I know quite a few operators who nearly went under through this legislation coming, as it did, during a period of slump and making the cost of operating to be prohibitive. It was, of course, this legislation which precipitated the introduction of the diesel-engined vehicle, and no one can argue that these are not economical units to run, especially was it so

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at that time when the fuel did not bear the tax that it now does, and it was for these reasons that Fodens introduced their first diesel vehicle in 1931, forming another successful phase in the history of the firm. Before ending, perhaps we can be permitted to conclude with mention of " The Band ". Known locally by this abbreviation, there must surely be very few who have not listened to the radio broadcasts, or at least have heard of, giving it the full title, Messrs. Foden's Motor Works Band. Essentially, the brass band is a northern institution and one can well picture its inauguration ; Mr. Edwin Foden walking through one of the shops during the mid-day break and listening to a bunch of brass enthusiasts discussing the arrangements of a certain piece of music. Probably, one of them would have been saying, "It goes Ta-tat-ta, then th' cornet comes in and tak's over to carry on solo ". Realising that he had a really devoted number of enthusiasts already in the works, Mr. Foden decided to get them together, to lay before them, the proposition that thay could form a Works Band of their own. The outcome was that the band was organised and made its first public appearance in the Celebrations of the Relief of Mafeking, in 1901. What a glorious year that must have been, Makking Relieved, The Band, and the success of the 5 tonner in the Aldershot W.O. Trials. No wonder that Sandbach turned out, en masse, to welcome its return.

BOOK R EVIEWS Steam returns to the Royal Highland. Published by the Scottish Traction Engine Society. 8 pp. 5 illustrations. Price Is. 6d. post paid. From : The Membership Secretary, C. D. Nicolls, Esq., 21 Rockfield Street, Dundee. This is a very interesting booklet printed on art paper. It gives details of the arrangements for the display of engines at the Royal Highland Show and explains for the benefit of the public the different types of steam vehicles. It is well presented and should be of interest to all engine enthusiasts.

Old Motor and Vintage Commercials. Published by North London Artists at 15 Gerrard Street, London, W.1, on the 1st of every month. Price 2s. 6d. plus postage. Whilst illustrations and articles on steam vehicles are occasionally included, this excellent publication caters for vintage commercial vehicle enthusiasts which includes fire engines, tramcars, lorries, ambulances, buses, taxi-cabs, and of course as the name suggests veteran and vintage cars. This is a most absorbing publication and each issue contains a wealth of interesting articles and illustrations.

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The Iron Lady - by G. Coulson unframed prints E1/15/6 (incl. Pure. Tax) Size 184 in. X 26 in. This most beautiful full colour reproduction of G. Coulson's painting of the Engine " Princess Royal " by E. W. Gale & Sons of Whittlesey will appeal to all those interested in the history of Traction Engines. We specialise in the reproduction of outstanding paintings and etchings depicting many hobbies and sports. Choose from 200 full colour illustrations in the HOMELOVERS BOOK OF FINE PRINTS—price 20/- from all good print sellers or direct from :—

Sir;odid MeeciV 10 ORCHARD ROAD • BRISTOL 5

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STEAM AGAIN AT THE ROYAL HIGHLAND At the invitation of The Royal Highland & Agricultural Society, The Scottish Traction Engine Society staged a display at this year's Highland Show, at Ingliston, Edinburgh, from Wednesday, June 19th to Friday, 21st. This was our first public showing, and we were indeed fortunate in being presented with this excellent opportunity to bring our efforts to public notice. We were asked to provide sufficient engines to fill, with comfortable spacing, the perimeter track of the main parade ring. We finally mustered ten engines from all over Scotland, and one from England, and this was just the number required. Details of the engines are as follows : Burrell No. 1694 (Reg. No. 3118 S.C.), an 8 h.p. single belonging to Bob Smith of Edinburgh. Marshall No. 77973 (Reg. No. SP 9228), a 3 speed compound road locomotive with radial gear and piston valves. Owned by James Robertson of Coupar Angus. Tooker No. 1911 (Reg. No. SA 6914), a 5 ton 3 speed compound chain drive tractor, belonging to Willie McConachie of Tarland, Aberdeenshire. Foden No. 11444 (Reg. No. VA 2519), a 6 ton wagon conversion, owned by J. G. Barrack of Aberdeen. The far-travelled " Helton' Laddie ". Burrell No. 2426 (Reg. No. BL 4843) " Border Reiver ", a 6 h.p. S.C.C., owned by James Lyle of Duns. Fowler No. 15405 (Reg. No. SU 1827) " Sam Hird ", a 12 h.p. compound ploughing engine, jointly owned by Sir James Morrison-Low and The Hon. Vere Cochrane of Cupar, Fife. Aveling & Porter No. 12152 (Reg. No. SC1577), a 5 ton piston valve compound tractor. belonging to James Farr of Edinburgh. Burrell No. 3385 (Reg. No. SG 6600) " Dandie Dinmont ", a 6 h.p. S.C.C., owned by Jimmy Houston of Motherwell. Fowler No. 21222 (Reg. No. CS 5409), an 8 ton compound roller, owned by Harry Mackie of Kilsyth. Ruston & Hornsby No. 113812 (Reg. No. MS3273), a 6 h.p. compound traction, owned by Tom Holloway of Cambuslang. Named " Pride of Endrick ".

Burrell No. 3526 (Reg. No. AO 6302) " Lightning II," Dick Preston's " light scenic " all the way from Yorkshire, but no stranger to Scotland. Tom Holloway steamed to the show hauling his 1896 Foden threshing mill and bothy behind him. Jimmy Houston likewise steamed from Motherwell, so both travelled around thirty miles each way. The Aveling tractor lives more or less next door to Ingliston, so she steamed in in no time, while Burrell No. 1694 was only a little further away. Harry Mackie in his turn, steamed from and to Kilsyth, around twenty-five miles each way, but the remainder, the further flung engines, all came by transporter. The oldest engine present was Burrell No. 1694 (or 1893), and we had been particularly keen to have her there, even although renovation was incomplete, as she had been one of Burrell's exhibits at the Edinburgh "Highland " of 1893, so this was to be her birthday party. Right well she acquitted herself too. The engines were on display in steam, and were open to inspection at close quarters by the public when not in the Ring. An afternoon and evening performance was given in the Ring on the Wednesday and Thursday and one performance in the late afternoon on the Friday. At our stance the " crowd pullers " were the Ruston driving the Foden mill and " Lightning " driving her own lights. The whole show was spoiled by periodic heavy rain, but despite this the engines were a great attraction. In the Ring, the procedure was for the Foden tractor to do a fast circuit first, thereby opening many eyes, after which the other engines entered and did a slow circuit during which a commentary was broadcast. " Lightning II " brought up the rear of this file, and. after the others had left the ring to return to our stance Dick swopped his cogs and set off round again. Suffice to say the engine is well named! This high sneed turn was the best spectacle of the whole display, and in front of the crowded stand one could hear the crowd gasp. As our ex-showman's driver member Fred Forrest said, " When the spokes of his hind wheels disappear he's

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doing twenty ". I didn't see much of them. The Wednesday seemed to be the day when most of the visiting enginemen from other parts of Britain put in their appearance. I was introduced to Mr. J. B. Carr, well known in England for his many sets of dredging tackle. Needless to say our conversation was in the sizeable shadow of " Sam Hird ". As is the way at such events, I spoke fleetingly to many people with whom I would have liked to dwell longer, but it was a very crowded day. On the Thursday morning there was an evil shower, which was just sufficient to undo the drying that had taken place to the ground on the latter part of Wednesday. Nevertheless the two parades in the ring went MT smoothly enough, although there was some work with the rope for some engines on thc way to the ring. There had been a big attendance on the Wednesday, despite the early rain, and '1 hursday's turn-out about equalled it. The engines were a big attar:lion, even when just grouped around the Ruston driving the mill. The Friday was wet again, and the ring much the worse for wear. It was evident that, whoever drew up its specification did not anticipate the repeated passage of the steam locomotive! Friday's attendance was poor, and as soon as the parade was over most members set about preparing to leave, indeed by evening more than half had either departed or at least mounted their transporters for the journey home. Tom Holloway and jimmy Houston steamed home on the Saturday, and Harry Mackie was last to leave on the Sunday. So, as the footprints of strange monsters faded from the surface of the A.8, we got to wondering whether it had all been worth it, especially in view of the weather we had had. The letters of appreciation which the Society has received however, remove

all doubt on this score, and I am happy to say that the way has been left open for us to return to Ingliston on a future occasion. We hope we will . . . soon. Since the show, work on other engines at present being repaired has continued. We do not have as many engines left in Scotland as we would like, but we do have many more than the ten we turned out to Ingliston. Tom Holloway has now added a baler to his collection, so he now has full yoke of threshing tackle. This augurs well for future events. An engine which has been in the news again since the show is the Burrell "'Border Reiver ". She turned out to the Berwickshire Show at Duns at short notice, and proved a great attraction. She was again in the news, and on T.V., on the occasion of the return home of Jim Clark to Duns, after becoming World Ciliumpion Racing Driver. The large crowds prevented him from creating any lap or other records, but at least he toured in style. The writer's most recent excursion was while acting as steersman for Jimmie Houston on a trip to and from the Forrest's yard at Bonnybridge to uplift a living van which he bought from them. This was a trip of about twenty miles each way, the outward leg being done on the Saturday and the return on the Sunday. This took us over a short stretch of the Glasgow-Stirling road, which it is not possible to avoid unless one risks sinking into the Fannyside Moss, and as we did not relish that we had to brave the traffic. The road is without doubt one of the tiniest in Scotland, and is also, I think, one of the narrowest ; however, 'we made it without incident. This road is now under reconstruction, but I have not noticed any provision of convenient water-holes being made on such stretches as have been completed to date. I must speak to my M.P.! I.M.

SUBSCRIPTIONS were due on the 1st of September. Steaming is only sent out to paid-up members. To ensure getting your January " Special " Issue, send that £1 note now to the Membership Secretary: J. G. Hutchens, Esq., The A31 Cafe, Tricketts Cross, Ferndown, Wimborne, Dorset.

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THE WEST OF ENGLAND RALLY In common with several other rallies during the " summer " of 1963, that of the West of England Steam Engine Society was marred by bad weather. The rally field was on high ground about a mile north of Redruth, and if we had had only a moderate amount of rain all would have been well as the field has a good firm surface and drains well. Engines arriving on the Friday had no difficulty in entering the field although the approach lane was muddy in places, but on the Saturday morning most of them needed assistance and the immaculate machines approaching the field were muddy monsters after entering. Those with rubber tyres and the rollers were immobilised for most of the day, and before, between and after the ring events there were many interested groups of spectators watching straked engines pulling, pushing and wireroping their less-tractable companions. The weather improved by the time the rally was under way and the sun shone for a short time, but the ground was so saturated that several engines were unable to get into the ring. Several local engines which would have travelled to the rally on the Saturday morning did not make the attempt as the weather was so bad. There were, as usual, several from afar, the longest journey having been made by Mrs. Hampshire's Foden No. 13716 steamed all the way from Billingshurst by Mr. L Hampshire and Major G. S. Corkran. The rally was opened by Monte Crick (" Dan Archer ") who afterwards rode around the arena on Mr. J. Warren's Sentinel leading the Grand Parade. This was a very fine sight as the long-awaited sun shone on reaplendent paint and polished brass and cooper, and here special mention should be made of Burrell No. 3586 (Reg. No. BP5921) brought by transporter from Northleach Rally by her owner Mr. C. W. Simmons of Havant, Hampshire. Mr. S. W. Pearse's contribution—his two large models and his almost-completed 6 in. scale threshing machine paraded with the full-sized engines. His 6 in. model " Speciality " towed the threshing machine and a trailer loaded with tools, oil cans and even a bicycle,

and as it circled the ring the rear spectators could be seen tip-toeing and peering over the shoulders of those in front of them to get a better view of this old country scene in miniature. Later in the afternoon " Speciality " was belted to the machine and driving it, surrounded by a large and keenly appreciative crowd, many of whom had had years of experience with the full-size equipment before the combine harvesters took their place. Mr. and Mrs. Sparrow again brought their "Dorset Rambler " and Mrs. Sparrow's beautiful little 4 in. model. The offloading and re-loading of these engines with the specially built Foden low-loader is an operation worth watching. Another source of special attraction was the huge plougher (McLaren No. 1552) " Hero " owned by Mr. G. Hawkins of St. Issey and driven by four young heroes, two brothers named Daniels and two named Wood. During the last winter they had done a great deal of restoration work on the plougher to make her roadworthy. This engine, together with Mr. Mewton's Burrell " Millenium King ", Mr. G. Symon's Ruston & Hornsby " Trevithick " and McLaren No. 547 " The Mac " did good work in assisting the rubbershod engines, especially when the time of denarture arrived. In spite of the appalling weather in the morning between five and six thousand people attended the rally, and although the financial result to the Society was a considerable loss, some comfort can be found in the evidence that there is enough interest in the event for so many people to attend in such weather. Before the rally Mr. R. Haynes had done good work consolidating the roadway to the main field through the car park field with his Aveling & Porter No. 10190 "Joy ", and much of the transport before and after the rally was steam operated, Mr. J. Warren's Sentinel being the vehicle concerned. Anyone wishing to have a cony of the programme should send me a selfaddressed envelope (size 6 in. X 9 in.) with a 4id. stamp for postage. This address is: C. P. Gregory, Coombe, Camborne, Cornwall.

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THE APPLEFORD RALLY Foden "D" Type Tractor No. 12852 (Reg. No. RX1719). Owned and driven by R. G. Adnams of Reading.

Wallis & Steevens Expansion Engine No. 7683 (Reg. No. BL795). Owned and driven by Frank Upton of Maidenhead.

Burrell Showman's Engine No. 3833 (Reg. No. BR1498) "Queen Mary". Owned and driven by Viv. Kirk of Oxford.

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THE ST. EVAL RALLY Burrell Showman's Engine No. 3159 (Reg. No. 3823) " The Gladiator". Owned by The Gladiator Club of Redruth.

Fowler Traction Engine No. 7942 (Reg. No. TA626). Owned and driven by 1. C. W. Jones of Cam borne.

I

Burrell 6 h.p. Single Crank Compound (Reg. No. EB8351). Built 1900. Owned and driven by E. Mewton, of Mount Hawke, Truro.

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THE HAREWC

Mrs. Irene Sparrow receiving a prize from the Chairman, Mr. S. Cooper.

Harewood House, Yorkshire, resident(

Burrell 5 n.h.p. No. 3849 " Marshal Foch".

Foden Wagon owned by

Marshall 7 h. p. No. 58587.

Burrell 8 n.h.p. No.

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)OD RALLY

•

kr

of H.R.H. The Princess Royal.

Veteran Driver Jim Lewis in charge of Burrell "Marshal Foch".

J. & P. Alderson.

Fowler No. 14862 "Evening Star".

1080 "Dolphin ".

Fowler No. 9381 of 1902.

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Traction Engine Overhaul With the passing of the Steam Engine from our Roads and Factories, also went the many firms who used to cater for Repairs, Overhauls and Spares. The Traction Engine Rallies all over the country have shown that there are still a great number of Engines in existence and many owners who have little spare time may be pleased to have professional attention for their favourites and have difficulty in locating it. We would like to bring to your notice that we can undertake Repairs to these machines and have a staff who have been in this line for many years, which is a most important feature and we are able to make up duplicate parts, new Fireboxes, Smokeboxes, Tube Plates, etc., as today many Spares are non-existent.

If you think we can be of service to you PHONE SUNBURY SM8 2319 or write to : FACTORY " D ", SUNBURY TRADING ESTATE WINDMILL ROAD, SUNBURY-ON-THAMES MIDDLESEX Our own GARRETT TRACTOR is now being overhauled and may be seen completed very shortly

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THE TAUNTON RALLY Tite rally this year was held on 27th July, at the usual place, Ashcross, Thornfalcon, but in a different field. The weather was perfect, a cloudless sky but with the heat tempered by a slight breeze, different conditions to some of the rallies that have been held this year! Engine quantity was down this year on last year's total, but the quality was the same. The usual events were run off after the parade and line up across the field, the latter being taken at a pace compatible with the dignity of engines and not a flat out race. Another notable feature was the way people stayed on after the rally was finished and had even closer looks at the engines, interest was really keen. There was also the usual collection of vintage cars and motor cycles, including two motor cycles rescued only that week, and the recently retired pre-war Cheddar fire engine. The engines present were as follows : Burrell S C.C. General Purpose Encline No. 2767. Owner: J. Chappell of, Bridgewater. Marshall D.C.C. Convertible Tractor (as a roller) No. 74962. Owner: R. Raynor of Langport. Burrell D.C.C. Showman's Tractor No. 3192 " St. Bernard ". Owner: J. Gilbey of Yeovil. Wallis & Steevens S.C. "Simplicity" Roller No. 7832. Owner : D. Betty of Bridgewater. Foden " D " Type Tractor No. 13444. Owners : R. Smith and J. Chappell of Bridgewater. Burrell D.C.C. Showman's Road Locomotive No. 3711 " King of the Belgians ". Owner: D. R. Chappell of West Buckland. Burrell D.C.C. General Purpose Engine No. 3368. Owner: D. R. Chappell of West Buckland.

Burrell S.C. 10 ton Roller No. 3965 fitted with Burrell-Rutty Scarifier. Owner: D. R. Chappell of West Buckland. Aveling & Porter D.C.C. 5 ton Roller No. 8432. Owner: R. Burge of Temple Cloud. Aveling & Porter D.C.C. Type AB 8 ton Roller No. 14009. Owner : Thomas Bros. of West Buckland. Sentinel S.4 Wagon No. 9293. Owner: C. Hawkins of St. Issey, Cornwall. Burrell D.C.C. Showman's Road Locomotive No. 3888 " General Gough ". Owner : J. Miller of Witchurch, Bristol. Wallis & Steevens S.C. 3 ton Tractor. Owner: Dr. G. Romanes of Weymouth. Babcock & Wilcox (Clayton & Shuttleworth) S.C. 6 ton Roller No. 95/4009. Owners : Messrs. Buncombe of Highbridge. Garrett S.C./P.V. Type WS-2 Portable No. 33007. Owner: K. M. Vigus of Winscombe. Savage & Tidman Organ Engines. Owner: R. A. Macey of Puddletown. Also present were a Locomobile steam car engine and a table engine made by Cornealious of Chard. D. A. Chappell's " King of the Belgians " drove a small juvenile roundabout and generated power for his 46 key Chiappa organ. Special mention must be made of Don Betty's Wallis & Steevens Simplicity Roller No. 7832. This is the first of the Simplicity rollers that were made and unlike the others was constantly in gear. This has now been changed and has been most beautifully restored ; it was her rally debut. K.M.V.

BADGES AND TIES The new N.T.E. Club Badges are available (choice of Ploughing Engine, Traction, Showman, Tractor, Roller, or Wagon) price 5s. 6d. post paid. Club Ties in Green or Blue, price 18s. 6d. post paid. From the Membership Secretary, J. G. Hutchens, Esq., The A31 Cafe, Tricketts Cross, Ferndown, Wimborne, Dorset.

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THE ANDOVER RALLY Burrell Tractor No. 3815. Owned and driven by J. M. Baldock of Liphook.

Burrell Showman's Engine No. 3610 "William V". Owned by J. Crawley of Bedford. Driven by G. Woodland and W. Coates.

Burrell Tractor No. 3355. Owned and driven by A. Price of Reading.

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AREA NEWS THE CHILTERNS The biggest event in our calendar is now past and over, that being the Chartridge Rally of which a report was included in the July edition. In all, twenty-two engines were present, but as far as Rallies go, perhaps enough said! However, on August Monday, better weather prevailed at the village fete where five local engines disported themselves. They were Mr. de Fraine's Wallis & Steevens Expansion traction engine of 1917, Percy Turner's Fowler traction engine, Francis Grover's Aveling & Porter tractor, Don Harding's Aveling & Porter roller, and A. E. Reed's Marenghi organ and Savage centre engine. Mr. Grover, with the Aveling, introduced a novel feature by running "The Chartridge Express ". This was a four-wheeled covered wagon, similar to an old second class railway carriage, giving rides around the field. The photograph that I saw showed " the express " with enough eager passengers to make Dr. Beeching burst into tears! A " steamroller " said to have been a cross between a Burrell and a Fowler was recently at work in Lane End, near High Wycombe, and succeeded in getting itself a full page in the Daily Mirror, and even on to the television! This was Chris Edmonds' Fowler 6 ton Roller No. 15973 at present fitted with a Burrell chimney and cab. The only other engine that has been " throwing its weight about " recently is the Bucks. C.C. Compound Aveling at Brill, and Pitstone railway bridge. Mr. Bidmead has been out with his Fowler 7 n.h.p. Single tree-pulling at Aldbury. Mr. David Davis has purchased the ex Flintshire C.C. Robey Tandem from John Evans of Wigginton, and the Wallis Advance from the Wooburn Green R.D.C. and the 10 ton Fowler from Buckingham. Mr. Reed of Amersham has purchased the 65 key Gavioli barrel organ from Wigginton. C.L.E.

COTSWOLDS The main event of interest this time is the appearance of the " Triumph," the 5 n.h.p. D.C.C. Burrell No. 3917 belonging to Mr. R. Willcox, on the road again following retubing and other repairs. After being used to old unsprung agricultural engines it is quite a revelation, and it is surprising just how comfortable an engine on steel tyres can be with good springing. With this engine, the 6 n.h.p. Foster No. 12544, which has lain in another yard near by for several years has been moved to our yard, where restoration should begin shortly, time and weather, etc., permitting. Also a living van has been purchased, this too being retrieved with " Triumph," and work on the outside of this has started at once. The decoration of the inside should he possible during the winter, as there is a good stove in it! It is hoped that it will not suffer the fate of our last van, which was burnt to the ground by vandals about two years ago. The other Stonehouse engine, Tom Tucker's Fowler, has still not progressed owing to the owner's ill health, but it is to be moved in with all the others at Ryeford and put into store. Incidentally, the number of this engine has been misprinted on two previous occasions, so perhaps it will be as well to give it again. It is No. 9230 (Reg. No. NP3049), Class A4 Single. At the other end of the area, another Fowler A4 Single has been steamed again after a long period of idleness. This is the one owned by Neville Melhuish of Chipping Norton, who has just completed retubing her. She is slightly newer than Tom's engine, I believe the number is 11699 and Reg. No. AB9028, both originally being registered in Worcestershire. She is now out at Neville's garage on the Banbury road along with his two rollers, the Wallis Simplicity and an ex Glos. County Council Aveling D.C.C./S.V. 8 tonner No. 14083. In the Cirencester area things have been quiet this summer. Peter Young's Burrell S.C.C. 6 n.h.p. No. 3919 has not been steamed since coming home from Northleach Rally at the end of

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June, due to pressure of work on his night during mid-September, and farm. With the harvest all but com- miraculously coincided with a small plete, perhaps this will now soon be informal steam up which was planned remedied. This engine is only two for September 21st amongst a few numbers away from the writer's engine owners around Exeter. " Triumph," and it is understood that Three of the Marshall rollers were the one between, No. 3918, is presteamed (Nos. 78109, 75826 and served in Lincolnshire. 53351—the latter for the first time R.C.J.W. since it arrived from Wells, Somerset, DERBYSHIRE in February) and it was intended to The following five engines attended take all three for a circular run the Ashbourne Shire Horse Society round the lanes and back to the field, Show held in the grounds of Osmas- but before this could be started, car ton Manor, near Ashbourne, Derby- loads of people began arriving and shire, on Saturday, 17th August: the afternoon rapidly developed into Burrell D.C.C. Showman's Road something like our Cornish friends Locomotive No. 3509 " Rajah ", plus experienced some years ago at organ. Coombe, Camborno, as upwards of Burrell S.C,C. No. 2706 " The thirty people from various parts Admiral ". arrived quite unexpectedly! And to Foster D.C.C. Agricultural Traction cater for " the masses " two addiNo. 12539 "Winnie ". tional engines were lit up to enliven Foden D type Tractor No. 13222 the proceedings still further! Mr. " Cheshire Maid ". Balkwill then proceeded to give joy Super Sentinel Tractor No. 6695 rides on the footplate of Burrell No. and timber carriage. 3790 (Reg. No. FJ1609) and the RanAll five engines were under steam, some S.C. Portable No. 27441 was " Rajah" providing the power for hastily lit, the chimney erected, and the organ, and just before the Grand positioned with the sawbench to proParade also provided the power to vide a sawing demonstration! pull " Winnie " out of a soft spot. Many expressed their appreciation This was the first time that a Steam of our efforts to the effect that the Traction Engine Display was held in afternoon was better than a planned Derbyshire. rally! G.A.Y. In North Devon on the same afterDEVON & SOMERSET noon, our member George Tribe Mention was made in the last issue attended Barnstaple Fair Carnival of Steaming, of the prospects of a with his 1907 Compound Aveling club for Devon, and at a public Traction No. 6407 (Reg. No. TA meeting held at South Molton on 2759), and was followed by the very September 4th over thirty interested fine Ruston Proctor Compound Roller persons gathered on an appallingly No. 48359 (Reg. No. TA2894) owned dismal wet evening, and the Devon by J. Murch of Umberleigh and Traction Engine Club was duly driven by Mr. C. Hansford. launched by the Rev. H. Tucker of At Whimple, east of Exeter, a Mariansleigh, South Molton, who was lengthy restoration by Mr. D. E. unanimously appointed as Chairman Dicker on his Wallis Expansion Enof the Club. Numbered amongst our gine No. 7294 " Sheaf of Arrows " members are several engaged in is at last well on the way to comveteran and vintage vehicle preserva- pletion. New tubes and a number of tion, so the prospects for future new stays have been fitted, most of events featuring both steam and I.C. the topworks have been thoroughly augur well for Devon and Somerset. renewed and put back, wheels and Meetings are being held on the first tender are under way, and there is Wednesday of each month at the every hope that the engine will be Kings Arms Hotel, South Molton, advanced enough for a trial steam-up and an interesting and varied pro- before winter. Mr. Dicker has ungramme is being arranged for the dertaken this big overhaul almost winter months. The Secretary is Mr. single-handed over the past two years, Aitken, 12 Fir Terrace, South Molton and when finally re-assembled arid (Tel. 3089). lined out will undoubtedly be a very In the West Country, Summer fine engine and a big asset to the (Part II!) arrived for nearly a fort- Devon Club.

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A new engine owner in North Devon is Mr. Muxworthy of South Molton, who has acquired an 8 ton Aveling P.V. Compound Roller No. 6165 (Reg. No. MD4411) from Messrs. Buncombes of Highbridge, Somerset. The engine was new to the Middlesex C.C. and initially worked in the Harrow district. She was reconditioned by Aveling's in the early thirties and afterwards joined Buncombe's fleet. Since arrival at Mr. Muxworthy's farm, the engine has been repainted and lined out, and will he a worthy addition to the growing number of rollers preserved in the West Country. Yet another roller to come west to Devon is Burrell No. 4018 (Reg. No. PR4449), art 8 ton D.C.C. engine which the writer has finally managed to secure after two years of patient bargaining ! Owned at one time by Sharpe's of Blandford, Dorset, the engine was disposed of some 10-12 years ago to a farmer in the Wimborne area, who used it on the estate roads, etc., but it has seen little or no use during recent years. Fortunately, at the last steam up, the owner had the presence of mind to clean out the firebox and properly drain the engine and sheet her over, and she is thus in good order apart from renewal of some tubes and the usual clean up and repaint. Two or three further engines are in prospect before the end of the year and it is hoped to have more definite news in the next Steaming. The Teignmouth Quay Co. are supposedly to have sold their Sentinel S.4 Wagon No. 8850 (Reg. No. FJ 9248) to a buyer from the Nottingham area, but an attempt to steam the engine away during the week-end of September 21st-22nd proved abortive and its immediate prospects now seem doubtful. Their famous shunting tractor No. 5644 (Reg. No. 757 CTT) " The Elephant " is now withdrawn from use and stands on the quayside, currently for sale to highest offer. Her condition is rather shabby. Another engine which has received some attention during the last twelve months is the 8 ton Compound Aveling Roller No. 5853 (Reg. No. NO 3326) belonging to Mr. J. Ellis, a Chagford farmer, who has fitted a new canopy, a good deal of new piping and is currently retubing it, whilst repainting will be undertaken later.

Over in Somerset, the Somerset Traction Engine Club's Annual Rally took place again at Ash Cross, Taunton, on July 28th, and must have been one of the few rallies this year blessed with perfect summer weather —a clear blue sky and hot sunshine! Fifteen engines participated, and included the little Wallis Simplicity Roller No. 7832 (Reg. No. 1106472), owned by Mr. D. Betty, and which was making its first rally appearance after a lengthy rebuild, and is now once more in beautiful condition, both mechanically and as regards the paintwork. The recently formed Taunton Vintage Vehicle Group had a number of interesting motor cycles (some in " as found " condition), vintage cars and a well-preserved 1937 Leyland Cub fire engine, whilst Mr. C. Sparkes, from Cossington, exhibited an early Titan tractor. A.G.C. EIRE Two Fowler Steam Rollers, Nos. 17075 and 16238, and Aveling & Porter Steam Roller No. 7986, owned by scrap merchants in Portadown, N. Ireland, were cut up last June, 1963, also a Garrett Steam Roller (No. unknown). This same scrap merchant also has a Wallis & Steevens Steam Roller (No. not known) and a Robey Steam Roller (No. not known). However, they are in bad order and very rough, and they also will be eventually cut up. In May of this year Roscommon County Council had Garrett Steam Roller Compound No. 34177 (1924) in fair order, and another Garrett Steam Roller No. 34611 (1924) pretty rough, up for tender. I do not know who bought them, but I am sure they went for scrap. Another steam enthusiast, a Mr. Jack Louth of Slane, Co. Meath, has bought a Mann Steam Cart (Mann Steam Cart & Waggon Co., Leeds, on brass plate one side of coal bunker). This engine is complete and in fair order considering that it was out in the open for the last ten or twelve years. Again I was unable to find a number on this engine. This is the first time I have ever seen a Mann steam cart as I would say very few ever came to Ireland, and it could happen that this is the only one that ever worked here. Mr. Louth is a keen steam enthusiast and the engine is now in capable hands. G.D.

STEAMING HERTFORDSHIRE Ransomes No. 20760 and Fowler " AA " No. 15564 have moved to Brian Hailey's premises at Wymondley, due to the poor state of the ground where they were previously kept. No. 15564, owned by Michael Goodman, has been joined by its sister engine No. 15563 from Gordon Luggs' yard at Billingshurst at the beginning of September. Another arrival in the area is the immaculate Sentinel DG4P No. 8571 (Reg. No. KF6472), which was steamed from Warrington to North London in a total of thirteen hours by its owner Mr. E. Shone, on Saturday, 16th Sentember. The writer's S4 No. 9277 (Reg. No. DKN689) is having a new superheater installed and should be in steam within a few days, at time of writing. The writer was hoping to take this wagon to a static show organised by the Enfield & District Veteran Vehicle Society on October 5th, but it was not ready. Mr. E. Shone kindly loaned the writer his DG4P for the occasion. Also at this show was S. Statham's Fowler Showman's No. 14425 " Carry On "; H. Nicholls' Burrell Tractor No. 4072 looking vary smart after its recent overhaul and repaint ; Steve Neville's MacLaren Road Locomotive ; Bert George's Aveling Showman's Tractor ; and the Foden Wagon and Tractor of Messrs. T. T. Boughton and T. Halls respectively. The next day Fowler No. 14425, the MacLaren, Burrell No. 4072 and the Sentinel attended a small static event in aid of charity at Potters Bar. At the close of this event the writer and his accomplice (Martin Forder) drove the Sentinel the ten miles or so to Mill Hill. Finally, Mr. E. Shone has just nurchased the remains of a Sentinel DG6 in Berkshire and intends to tow it home in the next week or so with his DG4P, also the replacement boiler has arrived for the other DG6, so some further progress will probably be made on this before long. R.N. LEICESTERSHIRE It is unusual to find a farm in the middle of a town, let alone to discover a road engine hidden away, but I had the satisfaction of seeing a Ransomes Sims & Jeffries Tractor, No. 39149, of 1928, in very rough external condition but a possible can-

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didate for restoration. It is sited on the farm of Mr. Andrews of Holycroft Farm, Hinkley, Leics. At Norton Juxta Twycross, Fowler Single Plough Engine No. 4223, ex Bamford & Evershed, together with Allchin Traction No. 1261 and Aveling & Porter Convertible Roller No. 9267 (Reg. No. KE1290), are in the capable hands of Mr. T. Henton. D.A.C. NOTTINGHAMSHIRE Possibly the most interesting entrants to the recent Rempstone Traction Engine Rally included 'Fowler Compound Plough No l5497 "Black Prince " (Reg. No. WR7182). Chris Dabell and his hard-working staff of South Notts Bus Company, Gotham, worked hard up until midnight the day before the rally, in fact the last lick of paint was administered at " the witching hour ". No. 15427 and her sister engine No. 15426 (Reg. No. WR7181), also owned by Mr. Dabell, were once owned by Mr. Candy of Counter Drain, Lincolnshire, and before Mr. Dabell bought them were in use at Loseby, Leicestershire. Out of the five engines new at Gotham, Ransomes Sims & Jeffries No. 27014 " Cambrian " (Reg. No. D02043) and Aveling & Porter Roller No. 10991 (Reg. No. BC9483) have been restored, leaving the Fowler Plough No. 15426 and Fowler Roller No. 14342 (Reg. No. AX3512) to be put in rally condition. The other surprise at Rempstone was the last moment activity on Beeby Bros. single cylinder Plough (Reg. No. AL8345). This engine, one of a pair of friction drive engines, had not been on the road for twentytwo years, yet a trial run two days prior to the rally proved she was " sound in wind and limb " and duly shared the fame with another of the Fowler Single Plough Engines (Reg. No. NR1212). Ruston Proctor No. 35501 (Reg. No. BE7438) has recently changed hands. Mr. J. F. Stubbins of Nottingham is now the owner of " The Muddler ", having bought her from Mr. Toyne of Hykeham, Lincoln. NORFOLK Norfolk is seldom mentioned in Steaming reports. Yet the Norfolk Club's annual Whit Monday Rally continues to be a very popular event. This has been held for several

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years at Woodton, between Bungay engines. A driving skill event for and Norwich, at the home of the veterans over 60 was very well supClub's chairman, G. C. Howlett. This ported and the prize was shared by year's event coincided yet again with Bob Pumfrey and 81-year-old Mr. fair weather and the attendance was a Cardy. In addition there was time record, being well on the way to- for the ever popular ladies' steering wards 10,000. Thirty engines were race and the day ended with a subentered, showing a wider range than stantial sum to be devoted to charitever before. Indeed, every type was able causes. Bressingham Gardens represented, from portables to show- are incidentally open every Sunday man's and rollers to road locos. afternoon till late September and Tractions and tractors made up the Alan Bloom always has two or three largest proportion of course, but this of his collection of twelve engines in year, Burrells were not quite so much steam. the predominant make. There were, in fact, thirteen makes of portables NORTH STAFFS. & CHESHIRE and self-propelled engines, and comLatest engine arrival to the area is petition for the various events was so the very fine S.C.C. Burrell No. 2003 keen that time ran out before all was (Reg. No. YA509) " Firefly ", whose completed. The President's (Mrs. adventures in the hands of the CotsGeraldenc Neale's) Cup " John Wil- wolds area's Mr. Willcox we have kin " Cup for the engine of her choice read in previous editions of Steaming. went to Dick Jokes immaculate Now owned by Bill Briggs of KnutsFowler Traction and the Woodton ford, it is turning out regularly to Shield for the most outstanding en- club events. gine to the newly restored 8 h.p. Another of the Liverpool Super Burrell Showman's " Black Prince " Sentinel tractors, No. 5558 (Reg. No. which Alan Bloom acquired last year PD1854), the ex Criddalls stablemate from the late Mr. Evans of Wigging- to Alan Williamson's No. 6695 (Reg. ton, in a very rough state. No. EX1638), is now owned by Denis It was at Alan Bloom's home at Wedgwood. This makes the fourth Bressingham Hall, near Diss, that the Liverpool Sentinel to be preserved by Club held its first ever Rally. club members. This took place on July 20th and 2Ist The July Rally at Bellamour Park, in conjunction with the gardens which Rugelev, was a terrific success on an are open to the public on Sundays. ideal site, and we are pleased to Space limitations called for some say that this is going to be an annual restriction in the events. No more meeting. than four acres were available. On Many engines travelled to Rugeley this were several large trees, yet apart under their own steam, one good perfrom parking space for the twenty- formance being Colin Dale's sixty two engines in attendance, a parading mile trio on his 2 speed, unsprung, track nearly 300 yards long was S.C.C. Burrell No. 2950 (Reg. No. roped off. A disappointingly small AF35321 " Little Mac ", towing living crowd of about 1,500 on the Saturday van and water cart. saw two main events. The first was Arthur Wedgwood, of course, had a parade following the awarding of no difficulty in steaming his Foden marks for the engine in the best con- Wagon No. 5218 (Reg. No. M72871 dition. The five judges, G. T. Cush- all the way from Bottom. His skill ing, H. Bushell, R. G. Pratt, T. W. with Fodens is well known, but Page and Rev. R. Stebbing, held up seventy miles single handed on the numbered cards so that the aggregate morning of the rally with a 2 speed of marks out of 50 went to each en- wagon takes some beating. On the gine in the parade. The highest return trip he had the assistance of award of 46 marks went to Fred near eighty-year-old Uncle Joshua Hemmant's outstanding piston valve changing gear (on the move, of Garrett Traction. To him went the course). newly presented Page Trophy, a handAnother notable effort was the somely mounted brass oiler taken attendance of the ex Dingle Fowler from an 1869 steam engine made in Roller No. 16045 " Crusader ", which Norwich. The second event was a was steamed all the way from Sutton test of driving skill over a course be- Coldfield by its youthful crew. Members spent a very pleasant set with trials. On the Sunday nearly 7,000 people Saturday evening at the Gosstry Barturned up to see both gardens and becue in aid of the village hall.

STEAMING Engines present were Foster No. 12539 (Reg. No. MA5739) " Winnie ", Aveling & Porter Portable Engine No. 3338, S.C.C. Burrells Nos. 2003, 2950, and "Stanley Monarch ", Foden Tractor No. 13222, and Burrell No. 3509 " Rajah " driving lights and organ until midnight. Hot chicken rolls and draught beer blended very well with steam and cylinder oil! Engines are now being assembled at Jodrell Bank ready for the Autumn Rally, which by the time these notes are printed will be another pleasant memory. J.P.S. THAMES VALLEY Appleford Rally on July 20th had one of the best day's weather of the whole summer. Member John Plaister had his Marshall Compound Traction Engine No. 71837 there for her first rally. John and his friends have made a really grand job of this engine. Other engines attending their first Appleford were : Allchin No. 669 (1890), C. C. Russell ; Burrell No. TR 3554 (1915), D. W. Davis ; Foden No. 13238 (Reg. No. UU111), (1928), A. Napper ; Fowler T.E. No. 11941 (1910), Brian Oram ; Fowler Plough Engine No. 14712 (1917), C. Reeves. The regulars included Marshall No. 37690 (1902) " Old Timer ", owned and driven by our Chairman Arthur Napper, this being the combination that started this business of " messing about on an engine ". The Friday after Appleford is now a well-established date for our run to Sutton Courtenay. The engines present were Fowler No. 15710 and Foden No. 13238, A. C. Napper ; Marshall No. 71837, J. Plaister ; Wallis & Steevens No. 7872, R. Jolly ; Burrell No. 3458, P. Barker ; and driving light Burrell No. 3489, J. Wharton. Ran Hawthorne had his Fowler Roller No. 14674 " Busy Bee " at a wedding in July. They collected Wendy Sparks and her father " Brusher ", who drove " Busy Bee " for nine years, and got them to the church on the stroke of two. After the service the bridesmaids left their car standing and joined the bride and groom, best man, and of course dad on the trailer, for the journey to the reception. The villagers came to their garden gates to see the party go by, many of

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them having known this roller since she was new. She did her first job of work in the village in 1922 and has been a regular visitor ever since. Burrell Tractors Nos. 3355 and 3458, A. Price and P. Barker ; Foden Tractors Nos. 12852 and 13238, R. Adnams and A. Napper ; Fowler Rollers Nos. 14674 and 15988, R. Hawthorne and J. Marrington ; Wallis & Steevens Tractions Nos. 7664 and 7683, F. Upton and Messrs. Palmer & Manning, were present at Hurst Show on August Bank Holiday to parade, play musical chairs and provide trailer rides. At the end of August the two Burrell tractors and the two Fowler rollers were joined by James & Cockerell's Burrell No. 3887 " The Prince of Wales " for a steam evening, " The Prince " being busy driving lights. The next move for this engine was to Newbury market place where she again drove lights to advertise Enborne Show the following day, the seven engines present being Burrell No. 3887 ; Fowler Plough Engine No. 14712 " Wilbur ", C. Reeves, driven by Bill Fall ; Foden " D " Type No. 12852 (Reg. No. RX1719) " Early Bird ", Bob Adnams ; Allchin No. 669 (1890), C. C. Russell ; Fowler No. 11941, Brian Oram ; Marshall Traction Engine No. 73901 " Princess Mary ", Hamish and Ann OrrEwing ; Marshall Roller No. 89549 (Reg. No. FRX 129) (1943), Harry Fall. The recent rain made the field impassable, two engines never got in at all and "The Prince of Wales" went right down in the gateway, and so apart from the Marshall T.E. threshing the trailer load of barley, the organised programme was ignored and men and engines spent the rest of the day getting each other and the showman's out. A good time was had by all, but not in the way we expected ! Arthur Napper has purchased Foden Tractor No. 13238 (Reg. No. UU111). She was built as a rigid six-wheeler and was converted to a tractor and used for threshing in Co. Durham. John Keeley of Knowl Hill has purchased a 10 ton single cylinder Wallis & Steevens Roller No. 2574 (Reg. No. H06045) from a local farmer, and her canopy still carries the name Wright's (Alton) Ltd.

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More recently he has purchased Burrell No. 3906 (Reg. No. CR5830), a 5 h.p. 3 speed showman's engine, new 16th March, 1921. Many readers will know this engine, for she has stood to my knowledge for ten years in Goodey's yard at Twyford, and as she could be seen from the road everybody seemed to know she was there. Jack Wharton has sold his Sentinel timber tractor to an enthusiast in Norfolk. Ran Hawthorne has purchased Fowler Showman's Engine No. 15653 (Reg. No. CU978) " Renown ". She is a Class R.3 engine and was new in 1920 to John Murphy and travelled the northern fairs with his Peacock Scenic and later with his Ark till 1942. Jack Wharton spent two long days at St. Giles' Fair, and he had his Burrell No. 3489 (Reg. No. PB9624) " King George VI " (1913) generating light to the delight of enthusiasts and public alike. In all Jack's travels with an engine he has never met such interest nor had so many questions as at St. Giles. The Cancer Research benefited by £20 due to his efforts. G.R.H. WEALD OF KENT The executors have now wound up the estate of the late Mr. C. M. Rostron and his two traction engines Burrell Road Engine No. 3941 " Badger " and Allchin No. 3251 " Royal Chester " have passed under the terms of the will to Mr. J. Lucas of Horsmonden who was employed for a number of years by the late Mr. Chris Lambert and who had helped Mr. Rostron with the repair and maintenance of the engines when they were at Horsmonden. The pair are now stabled on Mr. D. Eastwood's farm at Horsmonden. The five rollers owned by Mr. Rostron have been taken over by his brother Mr. I. H. Rostron. Wallis & Steevens Oil-bath Tractor No. 7289, owned by Mr. R. A. Whitehead, is now being repaired as time permits. A new front tube plate and smokebox are being fitted. Mr. S. Wells of Leigh has made some further progress with the restoration of his Clayton General Purpose Engine No. 46823 which has now been retubed and fitted with a new smokebox as well as having some welding done to the front tube plate.

A Wallis & Steevens " Advance " (No. 7907), one of the last steam rollers to work commercially in the area, owned by H. Camps Ltd., of Tonbridge, has been working on the making of roads for a number of housing schemes in Tonbridge. Driven by Mr. Jack Dadswell of Eridge, it is quite a tidy-looking machine but has been somewhat marred by a new parallel chimney. Another roller that has been at work in East Peckham, near Tonbridge, is one of the Allen converted Avelings owned by the Wingham Engineering Co. Ltd., driven by that redoubtable steam man Mr. Ted Vousden, but the writer has no note of which one it is. Mr. J. C. Butler's Garrett sixwheeled Undertype No. 35464, which has been parked for a long while at Mr. D. Harding's yard at Edenbridge, has now been towed to Tonbridge, using Mr. Butler's Foden, and is parked on the farm alongside the Foden. When a new building is completed these wagons will stand under cover. The Foden is used on odd jobs about the farm, and when the farmer's eldest daughter got married this spring was used as a going-away car from the farm to the public road, preceded by a flagman bearing a pair of lady's underwear on a pole. Mr. W. Chandler has sold his Fowell G.P. Engine to a purchaser in Scotland and we shall, no doubt, hear further about its progress north of the border from our Scots friends. R.A.W. WEST OF ENGLAND At St. Issey " Challenger " (Burrell No. 2651, Reg. No. AY9840) is being stripped and prepared for a new firebox. Near Lands End, restoration, or more correctly, re-building proceeds on Fowler No. 12693. Some new parts have been made, bearings rebushed, gear teeth built up, etc., and I am pleased to report that Mr. Alford has decided not to " showmanise " the Fowler as he had at first intended but to fit an awning to match up with his beautifullymaintained threshing outfit. The Clayton & Shuttleworth Compound G.P. No. 48279 (Reg. No. TA 4561) which was derelict in North Devon for many years until bought by Mr. P. Herbert of Bude a year ago, has again changed owners, Mr. Herbert being unable to find time to

STEAMING carry out the enormous amount of work the engine needs. The Clayton has been bought by Mr. Solway who owns a garage on the A30 between Redruth and Summercourt at Marazanvose. He wanted an engine which would present him with a challenge and he has certainly got that as so many parts are missing, including all bearing brasses, flywheel, one trunk guide and all boiler fittings. Still, Mr. Solway and his son are determined people, and we wish them luck and ultimately look forward to seeing a very rare type of engine at a future rally. I believe that a Compound C. & S. is very rare, so if any readers know of sources of parts, perhaps they will get in touch with Mr. Solway if he advertises his needs in a future issue of Steaming. In August a plaque in connection with the Richard Trevithick statue in Camborne was unveiled in the presence of the town's civic dignitaries. Appropriately, Mr. George Symons was present with his Ruston & Hornsby which is named after the great man whose inventions have resulted in our rallies. Recently, George has had a week or so in hospital, but his many friends will be glad to know that he is about again and intends to bring his engine to the small steam party to be held at Coombe on October 12th when some members of the Plymouth Railway Circle will be present. About six engines are expected to be in steam, including "'Titan " (Marshall No. 693031 which was steamed on September 28th, the first time since driving a stonecrushing plant in South Cornwall many years ago. Many visitors to Coombe have seen this engine being rebuilt by her owners, Messrs. M. F. T. Leath and M. J. Pearce, and they will be pleased to know that all went well when she was tried out apart from a couple of minor adjustments to bearings which were quickly rectified. Now, after two years' work, the owners have an engine which, although considered as being too far deteriorated several years ago, has been restored to a condition almost equal to new. A great achievement carried out in the open and with minimum facilities. An elderly member of the West of England Steam Engine Society passed away a few days ago. He was Mr. B. Holman, who drove rollers for Messrs. R. Dingle & Sons for many

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years. With his friend, Mr. Jennings, he worked hard behind the scenes each year helping to prepare for the rallies and, equally important, clearing up afterwards. Mr. Holman told me recently that the fine Compound Fowler Roller No. 21833 (Reg. No. CRL110) was sent to Germany when new. Owing to currency fluctuations the German buyer was unable to pay Fowler's in full and the roller was shipped back to England and bought by Messrs. Dingles. Mr. Holman off-loaded the engine for Dingles and was its first driver as it had not been used while in Germany. WORCESTERSHIRE The two day City of Worcester Show and Traction Engine Rally was held on Friday and Saturday, 9th and 10th August, the usual nine engines from Hartlebury attending. Mr. King from Temple Cloud, Bristol, again brought his Sentinel Waggon, and the Lambe Bros. from Bromsgrove brought the ex Royal Borough of Leamington Spa Fowler Roller and the beautifully restored Foster "Little Gem " Traction Engine. This engine has been in the news in many ways reeenily on radio, B.B.C. television and in the Radio Times. I am indebted to Mr. Jim Hardy of Bromsgrove for the following report: WALTER GABRIEL'S TRACTION ENGINE On Sunday, the 8th of September, the 5 n.h.p. Foster Compound Agricultural Traction Engine No. 14564 was at Inkberrow, Worcs., to take part in the BBC " Archers " programme for the episode where Walter Gabriel took his engine to the village of Ambridge for the first time. This " Little .Gem " type Foster engine, on which the owner Mr. Fred Lambe of Bromsgrove, Worcs., spent two years in restoration, went to Worcester's Annual Show on August 9th10th for its first outing and the early recordings were made at Bromsgrove. As Godfrey Basely said in an article in the Radio Times, the engine was " adopted " for the Archers' programme some time ago and the script material was developed by the editor and producer making several visits during the restoration period. The Foster travelled the twelve miles to Inkberrow on the previous day driven by Fred Lambe and steered by W. J. Hardy, and was " lodged " at Mr. Perks' farm. On

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Sunday morning, L. J. Lambe and Alf Burden, a lifelong steam roller driver formerly with the contracting firm of Eddisons, helped with the final preparations. The owner and Alf took the engine to a rendezvous just below the church where Walter Gabriel (Chris Gittins) and Ned Larkin (Bill Payne) were waiting. After photographs of Walter and Ned taking over " their " engine had been taken, they set off up the hill to arrive at " The Bull " beside the village green where a large crowd of " Ambridge " inhabitants including several other members of the " Archers " cast were waiting to see and cheer Walter's latest fad. Naturally Walter and Ned looking highly pleased with themselves were soon having pints of best bitter thrust into their hands, and more recordings (which came over with a quite realistic atmosphere on the programme next day) and photographs were taken. Fortunately the weather which had been wet and miserable up to the early morning improved and the sun shone on Walter's first journey out. " His " restored engine in green with red and yellow lining was much admired to the accompanying good deal of cheerful banter from his friends. After a two hour stay outside " The Bull " the Foster set off again for Bromsgrove with Fred and Alf in control and thus ended a very pleasant outing whereat another page was written or should it be recorded in the daily life of the country folk of Ambridge ?

It is with regret that one notices in The Model Engineer that Mr. Cliff James wishes to dispose of his two crane engines. The Fowler Bighton " Duchess of York " is a 23 ton 10 n.h.p. engine and must be the largest crane engine in existence. The Burrell 7 h.p. D.C.C. 2 speed spring mounted crane Road Locomotive No. 3197 is ex Screen Bros. of Oldbury. Both engines are standing at Hartlebury where once again Miss D. and Mr. C. Middleton held the annual at home and tea on the lawn Steam Party on the traditional Saturday after the Worcester Show. A very large number of guests attended and everything " steamable " was in steam and many other interesting exhibits were working. Mr. David Walker is progressing very favourably with the renovation of the Burrell Scenic Showman's Road Locomotive " Princess Marina " and hopes in the near future to have the boiler and firebox shell back soon with the new firebox fitted. Then the second half of this gigantic task will commence, that of returning an engine from what is now a coal bunker only (with hundreds of bits and pieces scattered around it) to a Scenic Road Locomotive in all her glory. David Walker is doing all this just in the corner of a field and is determined to complete the job to prove to all and sundry that this can be done and that if an engine has got a " dud " box it is still restorable, and he hopes he will set the example to many people who would otherwise have had their engines cut up. J.L.T.

No. 4 Moor Close, North Street, Langport, Som. Dear Mr. Editor, I notice with interest reference to Aveling & Porter S.C. Roller No. 9370 (Reg. No. YA1177) in the special steam roller number of Steaming. This engine stood at " Brooklands Corner " at Langport for two-and-ayears and was taken to the S.C.C. Central Repair Dept. at Underwood Quarries, Wells, early in July. She was steamed for the first time in two-and-2-half years on Monday, 8th July, and driven to the Council yard at Somerton, the remainder of the journey being completed the follow-

ing day. The driver (Mr. D. Francis, who by the way was the last driver with my Marshall Roller No. 74269 when in Council ownership), told me he had instructions to take YA1177 on to a weighbridge before entering Underwood Quarries, when she scaled 144 tons and was almost out of coal and water by this time! In the July issue of Steaming the writer asks about Burrell veteran Traction Engine No. 1432 of 1899 at Messrs. Braddick's yard, Station Road, Gillingham, Dorset (" Devon and Somerset " news column). I'm very much afraid this engine has now been cut up. REX RAYNOR.

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THE ANNUAL DINNER FOLLOWING the Annual General Meeting a reception was held in the Cotillion Rooms where we met many guests and their wives. This year 240 members, guests and their wives sat down to dinner, a good indication of the popularity of this event. Despite this, however, many people were disappointed, as they applied too late for tickets which of necessity are limited. After an excellent meal, followed by the Loyal Toast, the Rev. Philip Wright acting in a dual capacity as Chairman and Toastmaster, introduced Mr. John Dowland, the Chairman of The Bedford Steam Engine Preservation Society, who proposed the toast of The National Traction Engine Club. The Chairman replied in his usual good form, which was much appreciated by those present. Arthur Napper, one of the few remaining founder members of the Club, proposed the toast of The Guests, which was replied to by Mrs. R A Whitg.1 ,-1 Weld Kent Traction Engine Club. Among the official guests was Mr. R. D. Howell, Chairman of the North Staffordshire Club ; R. A. Whitehead, Secretary of the Weald of Kent Club ; Prince Marshall, Editor of The Veteran and Vintage Magazine; Mr. and Mrs. W. S. Love, Secretary of The Road Locomotive Society ; Mr. and Mrs. John Dowland, Chairman of the Bedford Steam Engine Preservation Society ; Mr. Alf Pepper, President of the Leeds & District Traction Engine Club ; and Ronald Clarke, the well-known author. Apart from our official guests, fifteen other clubs and societies were represented. Then followed the prizegiving, the trophies being presented by Mrs. Wright, the wife of our Chairman.

The " Arthur Napper " Cup for Tractors was awarded to D. W. Davis for the work he had put into his Burrell tractor. The " Arthur Napper " Cup for Tractions was awarded to John Plaister for his efforts on his Marshall traction. The " Curtis " Trophy went to Steven Neville. The " Dacre Lacy " Cup went to Leslie Smith. The " Choisy & Simson " Cup went to Arthur Fearnley for work on his Fowler Tiger tractor. The " John Crawley " Cup was awarded to Ernie Liversidge for his efforts to the movement. The " Edney " Trophy was awarded to Dick Jolley. The " Golden Film " Shield was awarded to the Fensom family. A film show, presented by Jack Barnden and Jack Cox, was followed by a remarkable skit on a farm labourer of •yestcrycar by our Chairman who wore costume to fit the part. The dinner has now firmly established itself as the social event of the Traction Engine Winter Season, and our thanks are due to Alan Martin for the amount of work he puts into this function which is very much appreciated as indicated by the fact that each year we have to refuse many members who leave it too late in applying for tickets. Coupled with Alan Martin, we should also mention that Alan has, as one would expect, the assistance of our secretary Eric Fillmore, and this year I am told that both Mrs. Diane Martin and Mrs. Joan Fillmore also assisted. Altogether a most commendable effort, roll on the next Annual Dinner.

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NEWS FLASHES Mr. D. Fielding, of Liverpool, writes to say that Aveling Roller No. 8506, a single cylinder engine with three-quarter cab, built 1913, and lettered " Joshua Rogers, South Crosland, No. 4 ", stands in a farmyard at South Crosland, near Huddersfield, Yorks., and is taxed for the current year. L. R. Youd writes from Backwell, Somerset, to say that Aveling & Porter Roller No. 14001 (Reg. No. KR478), ex Barnes Bros. of Trowbridge, owned by Mr. Cheesman, was seen recently at work at Belmont Hill, " Flax Bourton ". He also says that Clevedon U.D.C. still work a Fowler 8 ton Roller No. 18637 (Reg. No. YD1601). K. M. Vigus writes from Winscombe, Somerset, to say that: (1) Aveling & Porter Roller No. 11833 (Reg. No. YC29), a D.C.C. piston valve engine, No. 62 of Somerset County Council's fleet, is at present at work on a new road at Bridgewater. (2) Babcock & Wilcox (Clayton & Shuttleworth) Roller No. 95/4009 (Reg. No. YB7976), S.C./S.V. 6 tons in weight, owned by Messrs. Buncombe of Highbridge, is at work at Puriton, near Bridgewater. This roller, fitted with a flywheel off an Aveling & Porter GND type tractor, attended this year's Taunton rally.

The same firm have a further roller working near Yeovil. (3) In a yard near the old canal wharf at Wantage, Berks., lying derelict amidst a bramble patch and almost invisible, is a Wallis & Steevens wagon. (The rareties still turn up!) The number is invisible, and the wagon is probably a 5 or 6 tonner. It has chain steering and iron shod wooden wheels. (Since purchased for preservation by T. Redbourn of Enfield.—Editor.) John Wykes writes from Altringham to say that he recently saw Marshall Roller (Reg. No. PY6079) at work at Morley, near Leeds. T. H. Tarling writes from Northampton to say that he recently saw Marshall Roller No. 79669 (Reg. No. PX2690) at work in West Sussex. Garrick Sharman writes from Thames Ditton that he recently saw the following rollers belonging to Devon County Council: (1) Marshall Compound No. 35978 (Reg. No. TA2434), unlicensed and in poor condition, near Bideford. (2) Marshall Roller No. 68955 (Reg. No. TA212) was seen on a council layby in good order on Barnstaple to Tlfracombe road. (3) Marshall Roller No. 85106 (Reg. No. DV4005) also in a council layby, near Umberleigh, and in first class condition.

FOR SALE A ND WANTED Parts too Wanted.—Good secondhand sheet lers (12 ton class). for covering traction engine. Price numerous to mention. Spart parts for and condition to S. Hubbuck, 60 Burrell S.C.C., mostly boiler fitings. Heath Road, Petersfield, Hants. —J. T. Beeby, Wymeswold Road, Sentinel Owners.—Anyone requir- Rempstone, Loughborough. ing a Superheater (single or double Wanted.—Cylinder drain cocks for coil) for a Sentinel, is invited to con- Aveling & Porter Roller (12 ton).— tact me as I am in a position to give J. T. Beeby, Wymeswold Road, practical assistance.—R. Nixon, 24 Rempstone, Loughborough. Georges Wood Road, Brookmans Wanted.—John Fowler nameplate Park, Hatfield, Herts. as attached to roller forks. Brake For Sale.-10 ton Aveling Piston screw and nut to suit Fowler 12 ton Valve Compound Roller (1923) in Roller No. 15935.—A. J. Barton, Rally condition and good working " Penfold," Red Lane, Kenilworth. order, new tubes, repainted, new For Sale.—Full set of rubber solid canopy, new chimney, or would ex- tyres for disposal, secondhand and a change for 8 ton Single. Price and bit rough, but at least would keep particulars : J. Procter, No. 3 Gran- iron wheels off the road. Owner just ville Cottages, Gunthorpe, Notts. removed them from Fowler Tiger in For Sale.—Front fork for Marshall order to fit new tyres. Price £5, 12 ton Steam Roller. Snare parts for buyer collects.—J. H. Russell, Coton Aveling & Porter and Marshall Rol- Lodge, Chacombe, Nr. Banbury.

STEAMING Wanted.—Traction Engine. Not particular as to make, Single or Compound. Must be in reasonable condition and boiler test passed in last twelve months.—G. Burnand, Great House, Orford, Woodbridge, Suffolk. Wanted.—Urgently required, rolls of 65 key Organ Music for Chiappa Fairground Organ.—Please send details of tunes, condition and price required to R. Franklin, 61 Leighton Street, Woburn, Bletchley, Bucks. Wanted.—Volume 5, No. 2 and Volume 6, Nos. 2 and 4, of Steaming. —Offers to C. V. Waine, Mount Pleasant, Albrighton, Nr. Wolverhampton. Wanted.—Makers' Catalogues and Conditions, especially Steam Wagons and Rollers.—J. Harraway, 16 Vicarage Street, Warminster, Wilts. Wanted.—Engine Makers' Plates for restoration and preservation only. Particularly Ransomes, Fowler, Foster, Wallis, Allchin, Ruston, Fowell, and Brown & May—Anthony Beaumont, " Waynefleet," South Wootton, Kings Lynn. Wanted.—Road Locomotive. Condition, make and price to Alan Bloom, Bressingham Hall, Diss, Norfolk. Wanted.—Pair of Hind Wheels. Suitable for A. & P. Roller No. 11496. Diameter 64 in. Width 18 in. Bore 12 in. X 41 in. Price and condition to S. Sutton, West View, Beckermet, Cumberland. Wanted.—Set of Traction Engine Lamps for BurielL—J. R. Barker, 59 High Street, Edgware, Middx. For Sale.—Fowler 6 h.p. Chimney with hinged bottom flange. No top. 141 in. X 93- in. X 53 in. Marshall 7 h.p. Chimney (stove pipe). No bottom flange. 13 in. X 101 in. X 48 in. 40/- each plus carriage.—M. J. Pearce, 31 Trevue Road, Camborne, Cornwall. For Sale.—Fowler 8 ton Compound Roller No. 21635 (Reg. No. CS7852) " Cavalier ". New in 1938 and in very good order. Fowler Spares : Dunbar & Slater mech. lubricator. Used but in good order. New brass bush for diff.centre of late type roller as above. New chimney bottom flange, 9 in. i.d., undrilled. One set new and one set slightly used slide valves for late type roller, 41 in. X 31 in. One new throttle spindle with buckle and glands for earlier engine. Other Spares : New final drive

151

pinion, believed Aveling. Has 12 teeth, boss 6 in. long for 31 in. dia. shaft, and six bolting lugs having 1 in. dia. holes on 111 in. p.c.d. New set (3) diff. bevel pinions, make unknown, may be Tasker or Aveling, 9 teeth, 3 in. deep, 11 in. bore. 22 new boiler tubes, 2 in. X 3M. X 111 in. long. Further details from Ian W. Muir, Earnockmuir Cottage, Hamilton, Lanarkshire. Tel.: Chapelton 283. For Sale.-2 Burrell chimneys, cast type, no copper caps ; 1 Pickering governor ; 1 Pickering (U.S.A.) lubricator ; 1 Manzel lubricator ; 1 Skew check valve, believed ex A. & P. roller boiler ; 1 doz. assorted wheel speeds. All carriage extra. Details from Box I. For Sale.-2 Aveling & Porter steam roller spares catalogues, 1907 slide valve compound, 1923 piston valve compound. 30/- each, postage extra.—Box No. 2. Wanted.—New superheater tube for Sentinel D.G. Timber Tractor. Full particulars please to : Pearson, 137 Pilkington Avenue, Wylde Green, Sutton Coldfield, Warwickshire. For Sale.—Excellent smokebox, unused, to suit tractor or small traction engine. 25 in. i.d. Complete with door, baffle, etc. Very solid construction. Also Scenic type dynamo with extension shaft, brass rails. In use recently.—Apply : W. M. Salmon, " Belgrave," Llandrindod Wells, Radnor. For Sale.—Castings for star and ring (13 in. diameter) for Showman's Engine. Genuine design made from pattern used by J. Boddy, Showman, Maidstone. 45/- ner set, including nostage.—R. A. Whitehead, 42 Hadlow Road, Tunblidge, Kent. For Sale.—Books! The Development of the English Traction Engine, 87/6 ; The Development of the English Steam Wagon (Clark), 65/(ready November) ; Album of Steam Traction Engines (Clymer), U.S.A., 470 illustrations, many English, 22/6 ; Some Working Traction Engines. 5/6. All post paid. S.E.A. for full list. —G. R. Hawthorne, 19 Bridle Path, Woodcote, Reading. Wanted.—Fowler name and number plates, owls, etc. Fowler literature and photographs. Will exchange similar items of other makes. —G. R. Hawthorne, 19 Bridle Path, Woodcote, Reading.

BY APPOINTMENT I 0 PI .11 , THE QUIIN

Consult :

HOUSEMAN & THOMPSON LTD. SPECIALISTS IN WATER TREATMENTS AND DESCALENTS

THE PRIORY • BURNHAM • BUCKS.

alma water treatment for

Wallis & Steevens Compound Roller No. 7797. New to Colwyn Bay U.D.C. in 1924. Whether he is ' nursing' a boiler of an Ocean Liner, or a Power Station, for a living, or tending a traction engine for a hobby :

For longer life and greater efficiency Engineers all over the world recommend D.M. Water Treatment. If one is using hard or soft water, ,the scale or corrosion which results can only be prevented by efficient water treatment. Published by National Traction Engine Club for private circulation Printed by Stonebridges Printers Ltd., 32 Brereton Road, Bedford