Tractors plough a straight furrow in competition

MORE than 40 vintage tractors and ploughs battled it out this weekend to win one of the country's most unusual competitions. Some of the finest ploughmen from across the North East of England and Scotland put their ploughs to the test during the prestigious Northern Counties Ploughing match on Sunday. The event featured three classes of vintage ploughs and tractors - the vintage trail plough, vintage mounted ploughs up to 1959 and classic ploughs up to 1975. Against the grand backdrop of Chipchase Castle in Northumberland, the farming enthusiasts showcased their skills in four different categories - consisting of "classic", "vintage hydraulic", "vintage trailed" and "novice". Each competitor was allocated their own plot of land measuring 100 x 40 yards and were judged on everything from straightness to weed control. Charlie Halliday, Secretary of the Northern Area Ploughing Association said: "Ploughing is sadly a hobby that is dying, so we try to keep the hobby alive in Northumberland. "The winner of each category will qualify to compete for the British Championships next year down in Taunton in Somerset, so it is quite aprize to go for today." 

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