Start'em Young

The Scottish Borders has an enviable reputation as a hotbed for classic Ford tractors in original condition. Bob Weir went to meet Sean Campbell, and his Ford 4000.

- Sean Campbell

Sean Campbell comes from the village of Blainslie near Lauder. The region is well-known for its agriculture and classic tractor enthusiasts. The Borders recently received a boost to its economy when the Queen opened the Borders Railway linking Tweed bank to Edinburgh. The new line has already attracted thousands of passengers and is expected to provide significant extra growth for the area.

At the time of my visit, Sean was looking forward to his summer school holidays. He said: “Although I come from a farming background, I am hoping to go to university to study architecture. I am currently studying at Earlston High School, and will be going into my sixth year after the summer break.”

A Ford 4000 is Sean’s first tractor and was a present from his uncle, well-known collector Robert Wardhaugh. Robert has put together a superb stable of tractors over the years and is a regular visitor to tractor shows on both sides of the England/Scotland border.

“It was my uncle who first got me interested in old tractors, and I have been hooked ever since,” said Sean, who is a member of the Borders Vintage Agricultural Association (BVAA). “He was also the one who taught me how to drive, and I have already passed my test. Because my uncle has a large collection I spend a lot of time at his farm in Darnick, between Melrose and Galashiels, learning about all the different types of tractors. I also help out at the annual BVAA show at Spring wood Park in Kelso, where the family usually takes along several machines. Being around so many tractor enthusiasts is an excellent way to learn about all the various makes.”