Bicton students’ marathon charity tractor rebuild

Engineering students from Bicton College in Devon worked through the night recently as part of their 24-hour tractor rebuild marathon.

The students refurbished a 1967 David Brown 880 Selectomatic tractor, restoring it to its former glory, overhauling the engine, steering and gearbox and fitting new hydraulic parts and brakes.

“Although the preparation takes considerable logistical planning, it is a great incentive for the students to complete the rebuild in 24 hours,” says lecturer Chris Jaworski.

Last year’s restoration of a Massey Ferguson 35 resulted in nearly £20,000 being raised for Bicton Overseas Agricultural Trust (BOAT), all the parts required donated by The Vapormatic Company from Exeter.

The tractor was the sixth to be restored and raffled by the charity and they have now raised over £87,000. BOAT was established by Devon farmers in 1991 to “train trainers” working in the developing world.

Raffle tickets with the tractor as the main prize will be sold at shows throughout the summer with the money raised going to support BOAT. Contact Bill Vellacott on 01884 277 329 or email.

Bicton College students with their rebuilt David Brown 880 tractor