There was a great turnout for the Southern Vintage Engine and Tractor Club’s August Vintage Rally at Belle Abbey Farm in Colby on Sunday.

There was some fine old vehicles and machinery on show.

Spokesman for the club, Orry Mitchell said that nearly 700 people came through the gate many of whom were very pleased to have a farming-based social event to go to after the cancellation of the two major agricultural shows.

He went on: ’There was a good variety of vehicle there and I’d like to give a big thank you to all the visitors and exhibitors who came to support the event.’

Orry himself had brought along his 1947 Field Marshall tractor belted to his Claas Buncher.

He said: ’I bought the Field Marshall tractor when I was working on the Norfolk/Suffolk borders and brought it back to the Isle of Man in 1994.

’It then spent 20 years working up at Cregneash from time to time.’

Orry also took part in the baling demonstration, assisting John Crawley on his 1948 thrashing set.

He added: ’I’d like give great thanks to David and Sarah Quayle, Bruce and Glenda Walker and Sir Miles and Lady Walker for giving us permission to use Belle Abbey Farm and to our judges on the day, Bobby Sadler, Kenny Callow, John Quaye and Bernie Wade.

’And especially thanks to the show organiser and director, Robin Settrey for all his hard work in making the show a success.’