History comes alive at this year’s VTS

History comes alive at this year’s VTS 

Massey Ferguson, a stalwart of farm machinery manufacturing with a history dating back 177 years, is set to make waves at this year’s Newark Vintage Tractor and Heritage Show. 

Celebrating 60 years of the iconic ‘Red Giants’ 100 series, the show, co-supported by Friends of Ferguson Heritage (FOFH), will host a record attempt for the largest gathering of the legendary 135 model.  

It’s an important series of tractors for Massey Ferguson, says Peter Lawrence, Chair of Friends of Ferguson Heritage. “Not only did it look very different with its American-inspired flat panelling, but it was their first series of tractors to be fitted with direct injection engines. 

“The 135 is an iconic model,” adds Mr Lawrence. “More 135s were sold than any other model in the series, and they remain very much a part of farming today – all over the world. 

“From fruit growers in South Africa to dairies in Devon (UK), they are still being put through their paces. It’s a remarkable tractor and we couldn’t let the milestone pass without a memorable celebration.” 

Originally unveiled at the Earl’s Court Smithfield Show in December 1964, the 100 series included the British-built 135, 165 and 175 models, alongside the French-built 130. Offering new levels of power over their predecessors, the 135 housed a 2.5-litre three-cylinder Perkins AD.3152 engine, while the 165 and 175 boasted four cylinders. 

The series delivered on power, compactness and adaptability offering up to 45.5 horsepower in a body just 3m long and 1.6 wide, featuring adjustable wheel widths in two-inch increments. Standard transmission comprised a six-speed gearbox but, as an option, a multi-power system could offer a 21% speed increase with on-the-move clutchless gear change. 

In 1970, UK legislation made it mandatory for all tractors to be fitted with a safety cab, which coincided with Massey’s evolution of the 100 series – where many enthusiasts draw the line for the original line-up.  

For vegetable farmer and FOFH director, Martin Evans, the record attempt will be a family effort with nine 135 entries. “My sons Matt (age 23) and Lewis (age 21) are very much involved in the effort to get the 135s ready to bring along,” he says. “And my daughter, Danielle (age 20), is working hard to finish her Super Dexta – she’s really keen to get to the show with it this year.” 

Among the tractors Martin will display is a 1965 MF 135, purchased from a farmer in Aberdyfi, Wales, complete with an interesting history. 

“Having been involved in a fire and rolled down a hill, it was practically in bits when we bought it, with the engine by the door and most of its other bits in wrong places,” explains Mr Evans. “We rebuilt the engine and put things back where they should be, but what we love and try to keep as much of as possible is the social history – in this case, the wings forged by an Aberdyfi-local blacksmith.” 

And while the tractors are a focus at the show, it’s the people who matter the most, he says. “Year-on-year there are new things to see, but the experience is also what keeps people, like myself, coming back.  

“It’s a place to be inspired, to meet old and new friends, find new parts, gain knowledge, and laugh at the hiccups and good times we’ve had. Without the show so much would be lost, so I encourage everyone to come along; they won’t regret it.”  

• Tickets are available at: www.newarkvintagetractorshow.ticketsrv.co.uk/tickets/ 

Discounted tickets are £15 for adults (17+ years) until 1 November, increasing to £19 thereafter. Children (16 and under) enter for free.