A rare 1910 Talbot 6AS introduced to compete with the Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost is among more than 100 veteran cars that will be showcased at Tractor Fest at Newby Hall, Ripon (6-7 June), which once again is sponsored by Cheffins.
The Edwardian car was one of just 52 manufactured by Clément-Talbot Limited in Kensington, of which just four survive. Only two remain on the road - one in Australia and one in the UK, owned by North Yorkshire businessman Richard Sturdy.
The 6AS was the first Talbot to feature a six-cylinder engine and has a 3.6 litre capacity. With a maximum speed of 60 mph, braking is on the rear wheels only (as was usual in 1910), requiring some forethought on the part of the driver.
The car, now owned by Mr Sturdy, was shipped to Australia in July 1910 and sold to a local landowner. It was rediscovered in the 1960s in a derelict state by car enthusiast John Gloyne and meticulously rebuilt in time to compete in the 1970 Sydney to Melbourne International Rally.
More recently, this imposing and powerful car sporting a French blue livery with red leather upholstery, was purchased by an English collector, before being acquired by Mr Sturdy who will drive the Talbot to Tractor Fest in June.
This year’s festival has a Centenarian theme with 100 pre-1920 cars, 100 1920 vintage tractors and 100 stationary engines that are 100 years old all on show. There will also be a special exhibition of Case tractors and machinery, and another displaying early horse drawn and tractor implements.
Mr Sturdy said: “I was fortunate to acquire the Talbot in 2015, since when it has been used on many Veteran Car Club road events and has performed impeccably throughout.
“The car is in fine condition with a powerful engine that was very advanced for 1910 and is a comfortable ride.
“It is equipped with a calcium carbide/water reactor which supplies acetylene gas for the headlamps, Lucas oil side lights and a generous hood to protect passengers from the weather. The car came complete with the original dealer’s brass plate mounted on the dash, log book and factory build sheet which shows the car was built on 26 April 1910.
“I consider myself fortunate to have such a lovely example of such a rare Edwardian motor car and it is my personal favourite from my small collection.
“Tractor Fest takes place annually at Newby Hall and is about much more than tractors – with exhibits of thousands of vintage engines, commercial vehicles, cars, lorries and motorcycles, as well as vintage tractors and more modern marques from around the UK and Europe.”
Tractor Fest attracts 12,000 visitors every year – tractor owners, collectors and enthusiasts as well as families from across the country. There will be more than 1,500 exhibits on display.
Other fun activities for families over the weekend include opportunities to drive mini tractors, face painting, colouring, interactive exhibits, working machinery. There are also trade stands, crafts and a choice of street food.
Tractor Fest is sponsored by Europe’s leading agricultural and machinery auctioneer Cheffins. Other sponsors are Ripon Farm Services and Econ Engineering.
Tickets are £15.50 adults and seniors, £12.50 children, under 4’s go free – includes entry to the gardens and adventure playground – and can be purchased in advance from here.