Firestone Pushes the Boat Out

Firestone will once again support Bicton College in their efforts to improve the lives of farmers in developing countries. A 1962 Fordson Super Dexta was restored to its former glory by a team of Bicton College agricultural engineering students, in a ‘24-hour challenge’ in April this year. This involved fully restoring the engine, steering, hydraulics and brakes in only one day.

The finished tractor will be raffled at the National Tractor Show in Peterborough on 4th November. The proceeds will go to Bicton Overseas Agricultural Trust (BOAT) and used to teach agricultural practices to people in the developing world. BOAT is a charity which teaches practical skills in food processing and agriculture to key personnel in countries such as Tanzania, which are then transferred to all areas of the community. The blue Fordson tractor is the fifth to be restored by the Bicton College team based in East Devon. The scheme has raised over £50,000 for BOAT to date.

Barry Coleman, Firestone’s Marketing Manager commented: “Firestone is delighted to supply the tyres for such a worthwhile project, providing valuable experience for agricultural engineering students and supporting important training schemes in developing countries. Congratulations to all involved.”