Last weekend Michael Hoey and his family opened their impressive yard and sheds to hundreds of visitors in what has become an annual pilgrimage for charity to see one of Ireland’s finest collections of classic tractors. Buses of enthusiastic tractor men came from all corners of Ireland over two days to see the impressive tractors on display.

Many were keen to share their pride in the fact that Michael Hoey’s tractor collection is in the country. Those never there before were hugely impressed with the range from the dominant blue Fords to an equally extensive Massey Ferguson collection. There were tractors there from every brand name that we have known in the past and to the present, in an extraordinary display that reflects Michael and his team’s attention to detail.

Over the two days, the Hoeys raised over €8,000 from voluntary contributions from the many hundreds of visitors. The funds were collected for the St Vincent de Paul Society’s Christmas appeal.

At the close of the day, Michael Hoey thanked everyone who had contributed to the success, especially the army of friends and neighbours with a tractor interest who rallied to support the event.

Irish Farmers Journal Vintage Diary

4 Dec Ballincollig Club Christmas Party Cork 087-9096616

5 Dec North West Model Show, Fir Trees, Strabane Tyrone 087-9976905

6 Dec Shamrock Club Vintage Ploughing Wexford 087-2229038

12/13 Dec Durrow Diecast Model and Toy Show Laois 086-8860598

18 Dec Lakeland Vintage Club Christmas Party Longford 087-6649069

28 Dec Murt & Minty Tractor Run Kilkenny 086-2662105