Collector's sadness over tractors

A 1974 Leyland County tractor made £33,000 at the sale

A collector who auctioned his farm machinery, including 133 classic and vintage tractors, says it was like "losing part of the family".

Peter Bourne, 75, of Ynyslas, near Aberystwyth, Ceredigion, who built up his collection over 20 years, saw it sell for more than £650,000.

The most expensive lot was a 1974 Leyland County tractor, which went for £33,000.

Hundreds of people from around the UK and Europe attended the auction.

As well as vintage and classic tractors, implements such as ploughs and straw balers were auctioned, along with spare parts and workshop tools.

I always said when I reached 75 I would get rid of them... they need a lot of looking after and tender loving care Peter Bourne

Mr Bourne, who owns some holiday cottages with his wife, kept his tractors in insulated and heated buildings near his home.

They were lovingly cared for and were covered with blankets.

But having just turned 75, Mr Bourne said he wanted more time to himself.

"My first career was farming, but I joined my father in the holiday caravan business," said Mr Bourne.

"I never lost interest in tractors or farming and a few years ago I thought it would be a good idea to buy some old tractors so the children visiting the holiday park could play on them.

"But they never got the chance to play on them because I started collecting them."

He explained that he had always said his hobby would stop when he reached the age of 75.

"They need a lot of looking after and tender loving care," he added.

"But I'm feeling very lost just at the moment - it's like losing part of the family."

Among the collectables was a 1969 International 4x4 County tractor, which sold for £17,200, and a 1967 Bray Nuffield 4x4 tractor, for £21,000.

Other rare tractors included a 1950 Field Marshall series 3, at £13,500, while a fully restored 1919 Fordson F tractor went for £9,200.

Mr Bourne also had 22 Allis Chalmers tractors which attracted attention from collectors in the UK, Ireland, the Netherlands and Germany.

Howard Pugh of auctioneers H J Pugh said: "It was a privilege and honour to sell an amazing collection that Peter Bourne has put together.

"In my 42-year experience this auction beats them all."