A damp, drizzly and overcast morning last Sunday, June 2, meant a slow start for the Vintage Rally organised by the Southern Vintage Engine and Tractor Club.

’But those who did come down enjoyed it,’ said organiser Orry Mitchell.

They get regular visitors and some from far-flung places such as Jeff Butters, Keith Bailey, Derek Grayson and Kirsten Butters from Gladstone, Queensland, Australia, who are here for the TT.

Exhibits included vintage and classic tractors, farm machinery such as hay balers, stationary engines, vintage and classic motorbikes and cars.

The stories behind the exhibts were shared.

They included Fred Quaye’s Lister Auto Truck, which he rescued from Ramsey Shipyard and Dave, Warren and Graham Corkish with their National engine and generator that came out of the Bay Hotel in Port Erin.

It cost £25 and a bottle of whisky.

Stuart Hill and John Dowling from the Manx Amateur Radio Society transmitted from the show and a highlight was a performance by the Southern Belles.

Orry thanked the Gawne family for use of the field, which is by the bypass in Castletown.

However agricultural demands mean it won’t be available next year and the hunt is on for a suitable venue in the south.

â?¢ Order copies of these photos and more taken by our photographers online at iomtoday.co.im/buyaphoto