ON Tuesday, October 12, 1982, a group of 43 enthusiasts held a public meeting in Chulmleigh Town Hall and agreed to form the Mid Devon Tractor, Engine and Machinery Group.

It was recorded that "The objects of the Group shall be to stimulate interest in all types of old vehicles and machinery".

The founder members were tractor and engine enthusiasts, many of whom had previously belonged to the Devon Traction Engine Group, which it was felt catered more for those interested in steam and old cars, leading to the formation of the new club.

The subscription was set at £6 per family, £4 per individual and £1 for juniors.

Shortly afterwards, on November 7, an outdoor get-together was held which the then “Crediton Country Courier” recorded as being on "...a pouring wet afternoon", but noted the enthusiasm of those present with "...just a tiny few of the many machines owned by members, some restored, others in various stages of restoration".

The Group quickly got into its stride and began to hold meetings, working events, road runs etc and to engage in fundraising for charity, all of which continue to this day.

After some time, the Group moved its base to Morchard Bishop Memorial Hall, where meetings are now held on the third Wednesday of the month from September to May, typically with a presentation from a visiting speaker.

There is also a busy programme of events throughout the year, although less so in the summer months when many of the Group’s members are otherwise heavily engaged in agricultural activities.

For many years, the Group organised and ran the very popular Downes Rally, initially jointly with the-then Crediton Round Table until it withdrew and thereafter alone, until a sequence of very wet events led to the Group deciding not to continue with the rally any longer.

The rallies and other activities have raised tens of thousands of pounds for charity, especially for the Devon Air Ambulance Trust which the Group is proud to have been supporting for more than the 25 years of flying operations that DAAT is itself celebrating this year.

In addition to DAAT, to which the Group continues to donate, the members decide annually at their AGM to which other charities donations will be given.

In contrast to 1982, the Group now has more than 100 members, most of whom are owners of vintage tractors, engines or other machinery and are happy showing and/or working them, while others neither own nor show, but enjoy coming along to the meetings and events and being with like-minded people.

Pleasingly, a number of the founders are still members of the Group, which will be celebrating its 35th birthday at its next meeting on October 18. Any other founder members would be welcome to be there.

The Group meets in a relaxed and sociable atmosphere and is always pleased to welcome potential new members. The subscription now stands at £10 per individual or family.

Further information is available from the Secretary on 01363 84622 or on the website (www. mdtemg.org) which the Group has just launched in celebration of its 35 years (thanks to the hard work of Mike Brett).

Michael Coleman