This year marks the 100th anniversary of the production of the first Ford tractor, and to celebrate the occasion Blue Force has published a 528-page book dedicated to the tractor models made during the last century. Called ‘100 Years of Fordson, Ford and New Holland Tractors 1917-2017’ author Jonathan Whitlam details the development of the Ford tractor from the early days of the Model F through to the very latest New Holland machines of today. Launched at the visitor centre at New Holland’s factory in Basildon, the 528-page book is divided into four sections; Fordson, Ford, New Holland and a look at the how the legacy of the Ford tractor is remembered today and how New Holland carries that legacy forwards into the future. Fully illustrated appendices also detail many of the conversion builders and related companies, and almost all the 1270 full colour photographs were taken recently of member’s tractors and others still at work around the world. The hardback book costs £29.95. Blue Force will be working closely with New Holland throughout the 100th anniversary year and one of the highlights will be the Coastline Tractor Challenge which will see club chairman Philip Gibson and club treasurer Peter Plehov, drive two New Holland T6 tractors from the Basildon factory on a 5,000-plus mile trip around the coastline of the UK and parts of Ireland as well as the Isle of Man and Wight, before returning to finish at the factory once again.
Beginning on 13th April and due to return on 2nd June 2017, the road trip will raise funds for the Steps Care Centre and Cancer Research UK. Sponsors are still required, so if you would like to get involved, or require more details on the book, contact info@blueforce.uk.com
