Speaker at the meeting of 18th July was club member Ian McBain, who gave a facinating insight to the restoration of that icon of the farming of yesteryear - a grey Ferguson tractor model FE35.

The Ferguson FE35 (Massey Harris Ferguson Company) was manufactured from 1956 until part way through 1957, when production continued under the Massey Ferguson badge and red and grey livery of the MF35. The FE35 itself was painted in a distinctive contrast of grey tinwork and wheels with golden castings. 

The restoration was of a tractor bought on 10th May 1957 and first registerd in Arbroath. Ian and his son brought it back to Fife on trailer and it has to be said that, even after being power washed, it still looked like a pile of junk - a challenge indeed! 

Parts came from breakers yards and, because of serious damage, two gearboxes had to be cannibalised to produce a good one. This model of tractor was notorious for poor starting and one concession to 'modernity' was to replace the original 6 volt electrics with 12 volt units.

The original bonnet was saved as were the original gauges and - the height of comfort on this 'deluxe' model - a padded seat fitted!

Today and after many, many hours of work the tractor is finished and regularly attends gatherings of of enthusiasts.

In conclusion it was interesting to hear that this model of tractor is still produced in India under the brand name "Taffy".

A very interesting story and a vote of thanks was proposed by Bill Batchelor.