24 APRIL 2008

NEWS RELEASE No: 10552

A REAL ANTIQUES ROADSHOW! VINTAGE VEHICLES SHOW THEIR PULLING POWER   From nostalgic old motorbikes to 1940s tractors, vintage vehicle fans are being invited to marvel at mechanical wonders of yesteryear in Kielder Water and Forest Park.   The Forestry Commission is hosting the second ever vintage vehicle rally at Kielder Castle on 10 and 11 May after the success of last year’s inaugural event.  Magnificent machines will jostle for parking space at the 18th century Castle, giving visitors a close-up view of motoring history and chance to meet the proud owners.   The event is being co-ordinated by 64 year-old ex-Jumbo flight engineer, Wesley Turnbull, from Bellingham, whose love of flying is only surpassed by his passion for restoring vintage agricultural machinery.  He said:   "Last year we had 70 entries booked in and this time round there'll be more polished chrome and sparkling paintwork to admire, from cars to working wagons," he said.  Even ex-lumberjacks are getting in on the act.    Derrek English, from Hexham, spent 40 years working for the Forestry Commission, but when he hung up his axe he opted to lavish his spare time on repairing two dilapidated tractors – a 1960s Fordson Dexter and a 1970s Leyland. Now he’s joined the ranks of the tractor boys.  Derrek explained:   “I spent about 20 years driving tractors for the Forestry Commission, so really got the bug. Vintage machines often take a bit of restoring, but getting them back in good shape is tremendously rewarding.  They are also becoming highly collectible, fetching good prices.”   For more details on entering the rally contact Wesley Turnbull on 01434 220860.    The free event runs through both days of the weekend at Kielder Castle.  For more information contact 01434 250209, or long on to www.forestry.gov.uk/NorthEastEngland   Note to editor Forestry Commission England is the government department responsible for protecting, expanding and promoting the sustainable management of woods and forests and increasing their value to society and the environment. Forestry makes a real contribution to sustainable development, providing social and environmental benefits arising from planting and managing attractive, as well as productive, woodlands. For more information visit www.forestry.gov.uk/NorthEastEngland   Media calls: Richard Darn on 01226 246351.  Mobile: 0775 367 0038.