Our hosts for the Astwood Bank Vintage Gathering, organised by the North Worcestershire Vintage Tractor and Engine of which I am Chairman, are S.E. Davis and Son.
Now the Davis family are excellent hosts for a number of events during a calendar year, and not only that, there is a fantastic selection of vintage memorabilia on their premises. If you get the chance next year on 12th and 13th June come and visit the vintage gathering and have a good look at the Davis collection.
Now one of the events they host annually is the NTET (National Traction Engine Trust) apprentice training weekend. In fact the NTET organise a series of training programmes during the year for people of many ages and both sexes to learn the basic rudiments of the principles of steam motive power and how to drive a traction engine. There are seminars covering all aspects including safety of course, but the hands on of the apprentices includes preparing the engine for work, Check water levels, rake and clear the fire bars and empty the ash pan then light the fire. Cleaning and oiling are all on the list of tasks that have to be done.
This a weekend that only the engine men or owners really get involved in the training, the rest of us sit back, relax and drink tea or coffee (day time that is) whilst later that evening, the nature of the beverage changes its texture and becomes stronger.
The photographs are a selection of engines used for training purposes and a engine owner, 'Big Dazza', his lady friend Fiona and 'Little Daz'
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