1964 Fordson tractor to embark on 368-mile charity challenge

Farm machinery transporter Robert Wilson is set to embark on a six-day challenge between 15-22 April.

He will be driving his 60-year old Fordson Super Dexta vintage tractor on a 368-mile route to raise money for three deserving charities.

The special tractor was originally sold by Robert’s father, Andy, to a buyer on the Scottish Isle of Bute 60 years ago. It had never left the island until Robert bought the tractor back in December last year.

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Robert Wilson with his 1965 Fordson Super Dexta © Robert and Lesley Wilson

Robert will drive the 1964 Dexta from Ullapool in the north of Scotland, taking the ferry to Stornoway, continuing down through the Western Isles on a route that involves a total of six ferry crossings.

The journey will conclude on the Isle of Bute, where the tractor spent most of its life.

Robert will be joined by members of the Bute Vintage Tractor Club for a convoy on the last leg of the journey, from Rhubodach to Rothesay.

“My dad will be there when we get back,” said Robert, noting the family connection to the tractor. 

Asked what challenges he foresees, Robert said: “The weather! Flat out, the tractor does 18mph – there’s no air suspension, no power steering, no radio, no cab – no nothing!

“It’s a 60-year-old tractor with a 60-year-old driver. We’ve fully serviced it, but I’ll take my toolkit along with me just in case.”

Robert is no stranger to extreme challenges – two years ago, he drove a tractor from Glasgow to Orkney and back for charity.

He spent his younger years on Bute working as a tractor mechanic, and goes back when he can to his holiday home, in Ardbeg, with wife Lesley and their dog Stanley.

Donations towards Robert’s fundraiser can be made at Vintage Tractor Voyage through the Western Isles – GiveWheel. 

All funds raised will be split equally between Beatson Cancer Charity, British Heart Foundation and Calum’s Cabin.