The Muir-Hill name became well known in the construction industry for building loading shovels and dumpers, the first of which was based on the Fordson F and was introduced in 1927. In the absence of hydraulics, ropes, wires and gravity were used to control the machines.

Muir-Hill production increased dramatically during World War II as the manufacturer’s dumpers were required for the war effort. Many of these dumpers were modified for agricultural use after the war and were known as Powacarts — marketed as multi-purpose farm machines that could transport grain and tow implements.

Muir-Hill dumpers with hydraulically powered tipping shovels were introduced in the early 1950s. The company’s first hydraulic loader was based on the Fordson Major E1A and was unveiled in 1954.

In 1966, a new range of loading shovels was launched, and the flagship models had both four-wheel drive and all-wheel steering.

That same year, the first proper four-wheel drive agricultural Muir-Hill tractor, designated 101, was introduced. The 101 was powered by a six-cylinder Ford 2704E diesel engine which was mated to a Ford 5,000 transmission.

The Muir-Hill 110 and 161 were launched in 1969, powered by six-cylinder and V8 Perkins engines, respectively. The Muir-Hill 161 had a power-output of 163hp and was fitted with a 10-speed gearbox.

In 1971, the Muir-Hill 101 was fitted with a 120hp Ford 2715E diesel engine. The Muir-Hill 101, 110 and 161 tractors were superseded by the 121, 111 and 171, respectively, between 1972 and 1975, the new models having flat-floor cabs. The tractors’ cabs were further improved with the launch of the Series III range in 1978 with reduced noise levels and a more spacious operator environment.

The power output of the Muir-Hill 111, 121 and 171 tractors increased to 116hp, 132hp and 177hp, respectively, with the introduction of the Series III range.

The Muir-Hill 141 was added to the line-up and was available with a choice of either a 132hp or 143hp six-cylinder diesel engine.

Production of the Muir-Hill 111, 121, 141 and 171 ceased in 1982 when the company went into receivership.

Muir-Hill was sold to Sanderson Ltd in 1984, which was in turn sold to Aveling-Barford and later to Lloyd Loaders Ltd in 1991.

Although not as popular as their more attractive County rivals, Muir-Hill tractors nevertheless have a loyal following due to their reliability and manoeuvrability. Muir-Hills are often found at vintage shows, usually hard at work ploughing in the rally field as opposed to being on display in the exhibition area.