THE Sunnymead Gas-Up held at Thorverton on Sunday, May 13 was the 17th of this now well-established annual event held at the invitation of the Lee family.

The good weather saw a large number of both exhibitors and visitors attend the gathering and the hosts would like to thank all those who supported the event and gave generously to support the Devon Air Ambulance Trust.

More than 40 old tractors represented the core of the exhibits and these provided a striking reminder of how much such machines have changed over the years since they replaced horses as the main source of power on farms.

The oldest was a Fordson Model F on steel wheels which came off the production line in the USA in mid-April 1918 and was therefore 100-years-old this year.

This tractor was one of the first Model F’s to be produced and is possibly the oldest true Fordson Model F (as distinct from the earlier MOM model) to have survived.

In addition to the tractors, there was a good turnout of stationary engines, motorbikes and classic cars. As in previous years, a highlight was the visit of a group of well turned out motorbikes to the show at lunchtime.

Other attractions included various stalls, live music from “Lenny and Lime”, a raffle with numerous prizes, guess the weight of the cake and a popular and hotly contested skittles competition.

As usual, the excellent refreshments served in the barn by a dedicated team of helpers were a key feature of the event.

The organisers are delighted to report that a total of £1,131.46 was raised by the event to support the Devon Air Ambulance Trust.

A small donation of £40 was also made to Thorverton Primary School to support its Garden Club. The money has been used to purchase a wheelbarrow.