Celebration of 50th anniversary of iconic tractor firm created in Langar
Farmers and agriculturalists from across the country are expected to make tracks for the John Deere 50 Celebration & Heritage Event, which will take place at the company’s birthplace in Harby Road in Langar.
The celebration will take place on September 24 and September 25, 2016, when John Deere will publicly mark its 50th anniversary across the UK and Ireland.
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John Deere Limited started trading from Langar in January 1966.
The original premises are still in use as the company’s visitor centre and national parts distribution centre.
Two of the original dealers are still John Deere dealers today and are owned by the same families – Ben Burgess in Norfolk and L E Tuckwell in Suffolk.
Heritage event organiser Peter Leech said: “Aside from the historic two-cylinder John Deere tractors on display, the main focus is to gather together examples of John Deere tractors and machinery sold through John Deere’s UK and Irish dealers from 1966 to 2016.
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“At the moment we have registered tractors for every decade from the 1940s, but we would still love to hear from anyone with more recent machines, especially classic models from the 1980s and 1990s – even up to the modern 30 Series tractors.
“It’s an event for everyone, so tractors of all ages are welcome.”
Owners of John Deere machines who would like to attend should submit an application form, which can be found at www.JohnDeere.co.uk/50years
A parade of 50 vintage, classic and modern John Deere tractors and machinery will start with a 1916 Overtime Model R tractor, belonging to Lincolnshire farm manager Malcolm Robinson.
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As well as trade stands, static machinery exhibits and working demonstrations of tractors and implements, the free event will feature activities and entertainment for the family. These will include archery, laser clay shooting, falconry and skydiving displays, synchronised kite flying and live music. There will also be a range of local food and produce as well as a licensed bar.
John Deere customers and fans are invited to join the anniversary celebrations by registering their attendance on the John Deere website at www.JohnDeere.co.uk/50years, with a chance to win special 50th
anniversary merchandise in a prize draw.