John Cook's funeral will be held on Wednesday 8th September at 1.00pm at St Andrew's Church, Heckington.

Heckington is a village approximately 6 miles east of Sleaford just off the A17

Posted 06/09/10

You are invited to attend a Conference to be held at

Kilsby Village Hall, Kilsby, Nr. Rugby Cv23 8Xx
Saturday 16th October 2010
Commencing with coffee at 9.00am.

Subjects to be covered will be:-
Rally Safety and Rally Signing.
First Aid, Incident and Accident Reporting,
Caterers, Catering and Food Hygiene
Update on the Event Safety Guide
Open Forum.

The cost of the full day conference, including coffee and biscuits, light luncheon and tea/biscuits before departure is £20 per head (for representatives of authorised events) and £25 for representatives of non authorised events and others.

To reserve a place a booking form can be downloaded below or obtained from the NTET General Secretary, South View, Hutton Roof, Carnforth, Lancs LA6 2PF
Tel: 015242 71584 or E mail: general.secretary@ntet.co.uk
Booking forms should be returned to Tim Holt, Head of Rally Section with the correct remittance (cheques payable to NTET) to the same address.

Download Booking Form Here (pdf format)

The conference is designed to provide a variety of help and information to assist you in running a successful, trouble free event.

Certificates will be awarded to all attendees

Posted 06/09/10

The coal supplier Evans & Reid Coal Co of Cardiff went into voluntary liquidation on May 21st 2010.

The new Ffos-y-fran main distributor is Coal4Energy/ Hargreaves plc. All enquiries should be to Paul Paddock who can be contacted by telephone on 07968-048482 or by e-mail at ffos@coal4energy.co.uk

Posted 06/09/10

I am deeply saddened to inform everyone that our Vice Chairman and stalwart of the Trust, John Cook passed away peacefully in Lincoln hospital during the early hours of this (Sunday) morning.

Robert Herring, Chairman.

Posted 29/08/10

Saturday 18th September 2010 is the closing date for nominations for members of the General Council.

A copy of the nomination paper can be found on page 116 of Steaming. All nominations require a proposer and seconder together with signatures and relevant membership numbers. Completed nomination papers must be received by the General Secretary, Jenny Holt by Saturday 18th September 2010.

Posted 22/08/10

At a recent rally after the public had left an exhibitor decided to take his grandchildren in the front skip of his restored dumper for a ride around the site. Unfortunately the skip tipped them out resulting in injuries to the two children including a broken arm.

Passengers should never be transported in places that were never designed for them.

Posted 10/08/10

During the early morning hours a 4 1/2 inch scale model traction engine was removed from an exhibitor's awning on the rally field. It was later found abandoned on its side with considerable damage probably because it had parted from its transport.

The message from this unfortunate incident must be to ensure your equipment is secure and safe at all times.

Posted 10/08/10

The coal supplier Evans & Reid Coal Co of Cardiff went into voluntary liquidation on May 21st 2010.

The new Ffos-y-fran main distributor is Coal4Energy/ Hargreaves plc. All enquiries should be to Paul Paddock who can be contacted by telephone on 07968-048482 or by e-mail at ffos@coal4energy.co.uk

Posted 10/08/10

Below is the list of engines that are planning to attend the 2010 Great Dorset Steam Fair McLaren gathering:

The Government is embarking on a series of consultations relating to reforming the licensing act. If you are interested use the link here to read the pdf document.

http://www.homeoffice.gov.uk/publications/consultations/cons-2010-licensing-act/alcohol-consultation?view=Binary

Posted 03/08/10

Once again there will be an Open Forum in the NTET marquee at the Great Dorset Steam Fair on Friday 3rd September 2010 at 6.30 pm. Please note the earlier time.

There is no agenda for this meeting. Officers of the Trust will attempt to answer questions from members on traction engine related topics. Already there are a number of interesting developments with the current review of the Trust's activities. Should the Trust provide benefits to non-members such as the provision of free boiler discs and should non-members be invited to Engine Owner's Meetings? How can the Trust reconcile its duties and responsibilities as a charity and at the same time offer benefits to its members?

There are many questions about the future of the Trust which need to be considered and the opinions of members are of vital importance. If possible, please attend the meeting and make your opinions known. Whatever your concern, I'm sure the meeting will be both interesting and informative.

Posted 31/07/10

A new, more secure V5C Vehicle Registration Certificate will be introduced from 15 August 2010.

The new registration certificate is being introduced following the theft of a number of blank certificates in 2006. The aim is to reduce the risks to motorists of buying a stolen or cloned vehicle.

The new documents will be issued from 15 August 2010 for all newly registered vehicles and when there are changes to an existing registration, such as a change of keeper or address.

From the middle of next year, the new certificate will be issued to all remaining vehicles when they are re-licensed or declared to be off the road.

The existing blue V5C will remain valid for these vehicles until it is replaced and DVLA will not be asking for the old V5C to be returned.

I don't believe there are any sinister undertones that effect the traction movement per se, however I would advise those who do change to the new documents to check and ensure that ALL relevant details including any exemptions and vehicle class are properly carried to the new document.

David Smith
Head of Technical Services Unit

Posted 27/07/10

The review group has been preparing questionnaires to collect information about the work of the Trust and seek opinions on the Trust's activities.

The review group is currently working on two separate questionnaires. One is for all members of the Trust which will be distributed with the next issue of 'Steaming'. The second questionnaire is for targeted focus groups which are made up of members and non-members with a wide geographical spread across the country with each group receiving the part of the questionnaire which is relevant to them.

The focus groups include engine owners, non-engine owners, rally organisers, affiliate members and commercial organisations. It has already been suggested it may be necessary to increase the size of our focus groups and this could be done via the Trust's exhibition unit or our website. However, handling large amounts of data does present problems. Collating and interpreting the information we collect from the member's questionnaire and the focus group questionnaires will form the basis of the interim report to the AGM. The review is taking a hard look at all aspects of our hobby which will take considerable time if it is to be done thoroughly.

Please return your questionnaire as the information you supply is important and will assist in determining the future of the Trust and its activities.

Posted 05/07/10

A press release from the Vehicle & Operator Services Agency (VOSA)

Increased powers to crack down on dangerous trucks and coaches were set out today by Transport Secretary Philip Hammond.

The proposals would give the Vehicle and Operator Services Agency (VOSA) more flexibility in tackling vehicles they suspect of being overloaded or breaking operating or driving hours rules.

The new powers would also help VOSA to enforce new cabotage rules, which govern the amount of UK domestic work hauliers from outside the UK can undertake.

Today's consultation also outlines plans to give VOSA officers in Scotland the power to independently stop commercial vehicles for the first time. Currently, all VOSA enforcement in Scotland is assisted by the police.

Philip Hammond said:
"If our roads are to remain among the safest in the world we need to make sure that the drivers and vehicles on our roads are fit to be there. VOSA's work is vital in keeping dangerous vehicles and drivers off the road.
"The measures I am announcing today will make sure that rogue operators have nowhere to hide by ensuring that VOSA inspectors across Great Britain have all the powers they need to stop vehicles that may pose a threat to road safety.
"These plans will also help VOSA to enforce the rules governing the amount of domestic work hauliers from outside the UK can undertake, helping to make sure that UK operators do not face unfair competition for business.
"The new powers will also free up police time as VOSA will be able to operate more independently."

Currently, VOSA inspectors can only independently stop drivers if they suspect there is a fault with the vehicle - although they can and do then check for other offences. These new plans would extend VOSA's powers and allow their inspectors - without the need for police assistance - to pull drivers over to check that they are complying with rules on maximum weight limits, driving hours, operator licensing and cabotage.

The planned changes will also include new measures to allow the VOSA Chief Executive to authorise inspectors to stop vehicles rather than needing to get accreditation from individual police forces. This is a significant streamlining of bureaucratic process and will free up VOSA time and resource to concentrate on front-line enforcement.

The consultation can be found at http://www.dft.gov.uk/consultations/open/ and will close on 13th August 2010.

Notes: 1. In 2009/10 VOSA carried out roadworthiness checks on 173,951 heavy goods vehicles including 99,507 vehicles from outside the UK. 2. 12,232 roadworthiness checks were carried out on buses and coaches.

Posted 02/07/10

The Trust is receiving increasing numbers of enquiries from owners of models and miniatures asking if their flat bed lorry can be included in the breakdown and recovery scheme. The simple answer, if you are a member of the Trust, is yes. Application forms can be found on the website.

There will be a full update of information about the scheme which will be published on the new, much improved website.

Posted 02/07/10

Fifteen members attended.

Treasurer's Report

The Treasurer circulated the Summary of Budget and Actual Income Sheet for the year ending 31st March 2010 and explained the figures in detail. After much discussion the report was unanimously accepted by the committee. The Chairman commented that the report justified raising the subscription to £30.

Correspondence

• A question had been raised about the need to inform DVLA about converting a roller to a tractor. Enquiries reveal this is not necessary.
• A letter has been received from the Steam Car Club of Great Britain asking why they were still not being accepted as an Affiliated Group together with a number of accusations. The Secretary is to send a letter pointing out the SCCGB has not read the documentation correctly and that their accusations are false.

The Trust is saddened to learn of the conviction of Tony Reen for serious breaches of health and safety obligations following a successful prosecution brought by the Office of Rail Regulation (ORR). This news is carried on the ORR's news page (http://www.rail-reg.gov.uk/server/show/ConWebDoc.10096) and on Old Glory's news page (http://www.oldglory.co.uk/news/competent-person-failed-to-properly-inspect-loco-boiler)

The NTET has always held that competent persons acting in the role of boiler inspector are an extremely important backstop that helps in safeguarding the longevity of our hobby. When the process of inspections is seen to fail, as it appears to have done in this case, a number of questions are inevitably raised about the ethics, conduct and integrity of the boiler inspections community, particularly the so called independent boiler inspectors.

It is to their credit that the independent boiler inspectors have recently joined together to form The Association of Independent Boiler Inspectors to address these same issues. The Trust has been encouraged by their endeavours thus far. However, it is one thing to have standards and procedures but it quite another to ensure that they are adhered to. Let us sincerely hope that this fledgling organisation will have the courage and conviction to deal with these issues as they arise, for all our sakes.

In the past the Trust has been heavily criticised by engine owners and non-owners for attempting to put in place standards and controls for boiler inspections carried out on traction engines and the like. These processes were designed to assist inspectors and owners alike meet the spirit of the Pressure Systems Safety Regulations 2000 (PSSR 2000). This was felt to be necessary by the Trust particularly as the hobby is held to operate mainly outside of the requirements of the Pressure Systems Safety Regulations 2000 and consequently there was no other body that could legitimately police our hobby. Since the conclusion of this court case however, it has come to light that this 'freedom to adopt the spirit of PSSR 2000 rather than have it enforced' may be dissolving as the HSE is now thought to be reviewing its stance on 'hobby steam' in whatever guise it appears.

Posted 27/05/10

A number of safety seminars for rally organisers have been held at venues up and down the country. Unfortunately the venues have not been convenient for all those who would like to attend especially for people living in Scotland, Cornwall, Northumberland, Kent, etc

The subjects covered usually include:-

• Defining Hazard and Risk
• Risk Assessments
• Control Measures
• Identification of Hazards
• Manual Handling
• Noise
• Safe Access
• Transport Safety
• Organisation, Planning and Implementing
• Health and Safety Plan

As a charity, we are always pleased to assist programme makers and feature writers as we benefit from gaining publicity for our work. Where possible, the NTET will try to facilitate requests for the production of specialist TV and radio programmes, interviews and photo shoots.

In particular we would welcome enquiries relating to documentaries, dramas, lifestyle and news features as well as technical, historic and human interest features.

Email your proposal or request giving as much notice as possible to public.relations@ntet.co.uk.

Posted 10/04/10

A number of safety seminars for rally organisers have been held at venues up and down the country. Unfortunately the venues have not been convenient for all those who would like to attend especially for people living in Scotland, Cornwall, Northumberland, Kent, etc

The subjects covered usually include:-

• Defining Hazard and Risk
• Risk Assessments
• Control Measures
• Identification of Hazards
• Manual Handling
• Noise
• Safe Access
• Transport Safety
• Organisation, Planning and Implementing
• Health and Safety Plan
• Benefits of being an Authorised Event
• Motor Vehicles Off Road Regulations

Drive It Day is on Sunday, 25th April. It is the day when the Federation of Historic British Vehicle Clubs(FHBVC) encourages owners of historic vehicles to use them on the road so that everyone can see the extent of the hobby. We would like to encourage all traction engine owners to support the FBHVC and demonstrate our heritage with steam on the road. If members would like to participate in one of the many FBHVC's organised events, information can be found at www.fbhvc.co.uk where there is a page dedicated to this day's events.

Posted 03/04/10

The report is based on the draft minutes of the meeting held on 21st March 2010. Present were the chairman and 26 council members and observers.

Report
It was agreed a report of the meeting should be placed on the website.

Membership Leaflet
The leaflet is almost finished and should be available from early May.

Membership
A letter is to be sent out to lapsed members to find why they have not renewed.

Steam Car Club of GB
Concern was expressed that the Steam Car Club are claiming affiliation to the Trust when this was withdrawn at the end of 2009.

Treasurer's Report
The low bank interest rate, a fall in membership and increased operating costs will cause the Trust to operate at a loss. A long discussion followed. The suggestion of a reduction in the size of ‚ÄòSteaming' as a cost cutting exercise was rejected. Finally, it was agreed to accept the recommendation of the Executive to increase the cost of subscription by £5.

Changes to Driving Licence Exemptions
A report was given of the meeting with DVLA about the proposed withdrawal of exemptions. As requested, a written answer to DVLA's six key questions is being prepared for submission.

Review Group
A list of focus groups has been drawn up and questionnaires are being prepared for distribution.

Insurance
A review of insurance provision is currently being conducted.

GDSF
The Trust is assisting with the organisation of the McLaren feature which it is hoped will include 46 engines with some coming from New Zealand. The display will be inside and around the Trust's marquee. The Trust will host a reception for all McLaren owners.

Road Run 2014
There was strong support for the plan but as yet no venue has been chosen. The previous event cost £12,000 and unease was expressed about how this event might be financed.

Website
David Collidge's company is to be asked to update and improve the website. This work will be carried out over the next six weeks.

Succession Management
Concern was expressed that there is danger of a number of officers and section heads retiring at the same time.

SAC
Subscriptions rose to £10 on 1st January 2010

Training Weekend
Plans are well advanced but there are still vacancies.

Rally Section v100,000 copies of the rally list have been produced with copies going to 768 tourist information offices.

Aveling & Porter Book
The eagerly awaited book by Michael Lane and published by the Trust should be available at GDSF.

Photograph Competition
It was suggested a competition should be held with entries displayed at GDSF.

Posted 26/03/10

The Unit will once again be travelling the country and appearing at the following events throughout the spring and summer.

• 22/23 May: Belvoir Castle Steam Festival
• 29/30/31 May: Strumpshaw Steam Rally
• 5/6 June: Beaulieu Steam Revival
• 26/27 June: Banbury Steam
• 10/11 July: Woodcote Rally
• 17/18 July: Masham Steam Engine & Fair Organ Rally
• 24/25/July: Cumbria Steam Gathering
• 31 July 1 August: Cromford Steam Rally
• 6/7/8/ August: Gloucestershire Steam
• 21/22 August: Lincoln Steam & Vintage Rally
• 1/2/3/4/5/Sept: Great Dorset Steam Fair
• 11/12 September: Essex County Show
• 18/19 September: Bedfordshire Steam

Below is a precis of items from the Events Industry Forum which might be of interest to rally organisers. It seems likely the Olympics will have an impact on steam events particularly in areas such as the provision of toilets which may be in short supply over the period of the Games.

Daylight Hours

Michael Hirst, Business Visits & Events Partnership, raised the issue of Daylight hours and said that all three political parties have now agreed in principle to a three year trial which would keep the UK on the same time zone as the rest of Europe.

Impact of Olympics on Established Events

Jim Winship, EIF Secretary, reported that the EIF had raised concerns about the Olympics at a meeting with the Department of Culture Media and Sport (DCMS) and this had been well received. DCMS officials reported that others, including their Minister, was also complaining about lack of communication from the organisers.

The two key issues raised by EIF were:

* Lack of information about the events being planned around the Olympics and the potential impact these could have on established events in the same area.
* Lack of communication with the supply sector over requirements or understanding of the risks of shortages of supply in some areas that could impact on established events.

EIF agreed to provide DCMS with information on the key events planned over the Olympic period (mid 2011 - mid 2012 in particular) and DCMS will seek to make the organisers aware of these. They will also encourage Olympic organisers to communicate more with the established industry.

Posted 23/03/10

The Rally List giving details of 106 authorised events will be published shortly. 100,000 copies are being produced supplying over 760 outlets including most tourist information offices. All NTET members will receive their copy with the next edition of Steaming. The Rally List is now also available on here the web site.

Any organisation which has not previously received copies and would like to be included on the next mailing list are asked to contact Tim Holt at rallychair@ntet.co.uk.

Posted 22/03/10

The unusual two wheel living van is offered without any charge. Yes, it's free and the owner can load it with his 4 tonne tele-handler. It is located 5 miles north west of Leicester. However, the person who would like it has to provide their own transport and move it in the next two weeks!

Please study the photographs carefully:

If you are interested in restoring this unusual living van and would like further details of this generous offer please contact public.relations@ntet.co.uk.

Posted 17/03/10

On 3rd March 2010 NTET Chairman, Robert Herring and David Smith, Head of Technical Services along with David Hurley - Federation of British Historic Vehicle Clubs, Dr Colin Billington - National Association of Road Transport Museums and Fraser Clayton - Historic Commercial Vehicle Society met with seven senior officers of the Department for Transport, Driving and Vehicle Licensing Agency and the Driving Standards Agency at the DVLA's Offices in Swansea.

During the meeting, which was conducted in a constructive and amicable manner, strong representation was made by each of the 'Interest Groups' for the retention of the status quo with regard to category B licence exemptions and all current arrangements. Subsequently it was agreed that the 'Interest Groups' would assist the Government Officers to assemble a case for the retention of the current category B licence exemptions for presentation to the Commission in Jan/Feb 2011. The work will be undertaken over the next 3 to 4 months.

Posted 09/03/10

Further to representations made to the DfT and DVLA by the NTET has now been invited, along with other interested parties including the FBHVC, to attend a meeting on 3rd March 2010 at the DVLA Swansea to discuss the implications and available options relating to the withdrawal of 'B' category licence exemptions as related to "goods vehicles propelled by steam". These changes are proposed to be implemented by the DfT/DVLA as part of Directive 2006/126/EC.

The effect of withdrawal of these exemptions, as far as we can tell, is that the 'G' category licence group will be expanded to include all steam propelled road going vehicles and a new 'specifically designed' competence test will be required to be undertaken on an appropriate vehicle. If not successfully challenged these arrangements are scheduled to come into force in mid-January 2013. They will not apply however to anyone holding a 'B' category licence before the implementation date.

Whilst many of today's owners and drivers may not be affected by the changes the youngsters joining our hobby certainly will be and so we have a dilemma. Would any safety minded organisation object to a test of competence for vehicles being used on modern roads or should we resist the removal of the exemptions on the basis of cost implications and loss of a freedom based on the preservation of our heritage?

In order that I am able to cover all of the issues surrounding the proposed removal of the exemptions, and not withstanding that I have already made strong representation to the DVLA and to the DfT, I would be pleased to receive any additional comments and suggestions from drivers and owners of traction engines, whether or not they are members of the NTET, that I can take with me to the meeting. Please email me at dvla-response@ntet.co.uk or write to David Smith, Head of NTET Technical Services, c/o Yew Tree Cottage, 98 The Ridgeway, Astwood Bank, Redditch, Worcestershire. B96 6NA before 26th February 2010.

David Smith
Technical Services

Posted 17/02/10

Further to my letter 22/01/2010 to Robert Goodwill M.P. who is also a Patron of the Trust put down a Parliamentary Question as follows.

Transport: Written answers and statements, 2 February 2010

Robert Goodwill (Scarborough & Whitby, Conservative)

To ask the Minister of State, Department for Transport what category of driving licence will be needed to drive a steam engine or steam lorry on the public highway when EU Directive 2006/126/EC comes into force in 2013

Paul Clark (Gillingham, Labour)

The new directive will come into force on the 19 January 2013. Those drivers who already hold a full car licence (category B) on that date will retain the right to drive a steam engine or steam lorry.

Drivers who pass a motor car test after that date will need to pass a further test in either a category c vehicle (over 3.5 tonnes ) or category G (road roller ) before they can drive a steam engine or steam lorry

The Department for Transport is currently in discussion with the commission about the possibility of an exemption from the requirement being offered additional groups of drivers.

Robert Goodwill M.P. will follow progress on our behalf.

Robert Herring, Chairman

Posted 09/02/10

On February 2nd I sent a letter of response on behalf of the Trust's General Council to the DVLA with regards to their proposals to remove exemption for Category B licence holders to drive a steam traction engine, etc, after January 2013. In that letter I spelt out in detail the financial impact that such proposals would have on the hobby and the potential it would have for radically reducing the involvement of ordinary folk, particularly the younger generations, in an important heritage area. I also pointed to the work undertaken by the NTET with regards to the SAC, Driver Training programmes, Code of Conduct and the Competence Scheme, all of which are established to assist the road going steam fraternity in maintaining an impeccable road safety record.

I am pleased to say that the DVLA have responded in a gracious manner and have agreed to meet with us "once we've had an opportunity to review your letter".

Quite separately I have also written to Christopher Curson, of the Department for Transport (DfT), on behalf of the Trust in response to their Consultation Document relating to Directive 2006/126/EC. In the letter I pointed out, in strong terms, the lack of transparency in the consultation process, particularly with regard to paragraph G13, which gives only the very slightest hint of changes to exemptions, and even then you would not be aware of how they might affect us. I complained also that if it hadn't been for the, albeit very late, letter from the DVLA the Trust would have known nothing of the proposals. I also asked for a meeting with the DfT and its member Agencies. I am awaiting a response.

It is extremely important for our members to know that neither the FBHVC nor the NTET received the 2006/126/EC consultation papers despite being on the list of interested parties and subsequently we had very little time to research and prepare a measured response. Our first alert was the notification from the DVLA dated January 14th, received on the 16th and with a deadline to respond of 5th February! Under these unusual and highly charged circumstances the Executive took the view that there was no time to afford the luxury of a fuller debate and neither did it want to set wild hares running. It therefore acted by instructing me to research the affects of the proposals and to respond accordingly. Latterly the General Council members were made aware of the correspondence from the DVLA and that a response was being prepared. In all of these processes the Trust took counsel from the FBHVC and I am personally very grateful indeed to David Hurley for his assistance and for his contributions. Incidentally the FBHVC has made it own, very strong representation on this matter to the DfT and is also seeking a joint consultation meeting between the potentially affected groups with in the Federation and the departments/agencies that make up the DfT.

David Smith
Head Technical Services

Posted 05/02/10

The world of Road Steam continues to evolve, be it changing public attitudes, the ways in which we communicate as a group of enthusiasts or, potential constraints to the enjoyment of our hobby. The NTET is now over 50 years old and has always recognised it needs to be proactive in addressing the risks, challenges and opportunities that exist in maintaining our heritage with steam on the road.

Therefore, as part of a continuous review cycle, the NTET is preparing to undertake a focussed review of the 'business' of Road Steam to ensure that they and the steam fraternity's wider interests remain aligned with the opportunities and challenges that lay ahead.

This wide ranging review will aim to draw in feedback from across the spectrum of road steam, from members and non-members, from those who serve our hobby commercially (e.g. suppliers, repairers, inspectors, insurers) to event and rally organisers (both authorised and non-authorised) and those government agencies that continue to work with the NTET in support of all our interests in ensuring steam remains freely on our roads. This feedback will be encouraged through a small number of focus groups to develop a series of recommendations that will be shared with all of the participants.

An independent and voluntary working team has been created to undertake this review. Consisting of 8 current General Council members with Rich Hurley, as chairman, an engine owner, who is a partner in a leading accountancy firm and supported by John Douglas an Independent management consultant. The level of success that this review can deliver, will depend on the active participation from anyone or any organisation that has an interest in road steam and who would like to join one of the intended Focus groups. This participation will range from providing openly their thoughts and comments to also calling for volunteers to work with the team to help shape its' recommendations to the membership at the planned November NTET Annual General Meeting.

If in reading this you would like to be involved and share your views, whatever they may be, or more importantly, become a member of a focus group please contact us by email at feedback@ntet.co.uk or by writing to NTET Review Feedback c/o NTET General Secretary, South View, Hutton Roof, Carnforth, Lancs. LA6 2PF.

Rich Hurley, Chairman, 2010 NTET Review

Posted 29/01/10

The Engine Owners Meeting to be held on Sunday 17th January has been moved from the Village Hall at Willoughby to the Village Hall at KILSBY, CV23 8XX.

The village hall is on the A5 at the northern edge of Kilsby Village.

Approaching from the M1 and the north and down the A5 it is on the corner of the first road on the right after entering the 30mph limit

From the south it is approximately 300m on the left hand side of the A5 after the roundabout. There is a sign on the A5 pointing to the village hall.

Posted 11/01/10

The funeral of Joe Powell will be held at Holy Cross Church, Ashton Keynes.

Friday 8th January, 2010 at 1.00pm.

Posted 02/01/10

Joe Powell of Ashton Keynes near Swindon who was recently made an honorary member of the Trust died early today. Joe was an earlier preservationist and over many years contributed much to the road steam movement.

The Trust and all its members extend their heartfelt condolences to all his family and many friends.

Posted 28/12/09

The Engine Owners Conference will be held on Sunday 17th January 2010, commencing at 11am with coffee available from 10:30. A buffet lunch will be provided.

The agenda will cover the normal topics of Insurance, Rallies, SAC, etc. and will also have a presentation about Cast Iron Welding and an update on the formation of the Association of Independent Boiler Inspectors.

All engine owners, crew and other interested parties are invited to attend whether members of the Trust or not.

Posted 26/12/09

The National Trailer and Towing Association have produced a flow diagram which appeared with permission in the FVBHC Winter magazine. It gives clear guidance as to whether a tachograph is required to be fitted.

The flow diagram can be viewed at: http://www.ntta.co.uk/images/tachograph_chart_l.gif

Posted 22/12/09

Many engine owners and steam enthusiasts visit the Republic of Ireland each year.

Please note that in from 1st January 2010 the Irish Government has introduced more stringent drink driving laws. The legal limit of alcohol allowed in the blood is cut from 80mg per 100ml of blood to 50mg per 100ml. In addition learner drivers and those who drive as a matter of course for their work must not exceed 20mg of alcohol per 100ml.

This move leaves only Britain and Malta as the last two European countries with a drink-drive limit of 80mg.

Posted 22/12/09

Recent calculations relying on a variety of sources show that there are currently 2486 UK Trust members with 919 members owning one or more engines.

Of the 3340 preserved engines in the UK 2155 are owned by Trust members.

Therefore Trust members own 65% of preserved engines.

During 2009 the Trust issued 2600 insurance discs of which 1000 were supplied to miniatures/models.

Posted 19/12/09

Despite dismal weather conditions, an estimated crowd in excess of 1000 mourners attended the funeral service of Michael Oliver at Child Okeford Parish church Dorset, on Tuesday 15th December 2009. Many people had travelled considerable distances from all over England and Europe to pay their last respects to this stalwart of the preservation movement and for many the founder of the Great Dorset Steam Fair.

Playing outside the Church was the mighty 110 key Marenghi organ belonging to Alan Caudwell from Sheffield. The cortege to the Church was led by Robert Coles' Burrell Scenic Quo Vadis. For many it was standing room only in the church and the remainder standing outside where the service was re-laid by PA.

The service was conducted by The Reverend Dr Michael Foster, assisted by The Reverend Roger Redding, Chaplains to the Great Dorset Steam Fair.

Tributes were given by Robert Herring, Chairman of the National Traction Engine Trust and by Martin Oliver for the family. After the service Michael was laid to rest in the church yard.

Posted 17/12/09

Please note that all applicants for the Voluntary Experienced Based Route to the Certificate of Competence should ensure they have the permission of the Event Organisers they are using to endorse their application before they return it.

Some delays have been experienced because Event Organisers have not been contacted prior to the application being made.

Posted 15/12/09

The Banbury Civic Society is currently responding to Cherwell District Council's Canal-side Draft Supplementary Planning Document, consultation for which closes on 14th December. The Banbury Civic Society are very keen that the current proposal to demolish both the locally-listed Barrows & Carmichael's works and the Samuelson's works is scotched because these are the very last standing monuments to Banbury's once-proud engineering tradition and, indeed, almost the very last of the town's 19th-century industrial buildings. See here.)

It has occurred to the Banbury Civic Society that members of the Banbury Steam Society, members of the National Traction Engine Trust and other concerned individuals may wish to comment to the Council directly via their website. The closing date is the 14th December, so responses would ideally arrive by that date. However, late submissions should nevertheless also receive consideration, especially if Cherwell Council are contacted by the 14th Dec, explaining that some consultation responses may arrive late due to late notification of the proposals.

The Banbury Civic Society hope to get a steam presence on the Barrows site and in the Market Square for a photo opportunity and press coverage to coincide with Christmas shopping and the Council's own deliberations on the responses to their draft planning document. Perhaps some engine owners may wish to join in the fun by bringing their own engines (Banbury built or not), or any other Barrows or Samuelson's products (such as carts, water carriers etc.

The Barrows Erecting Shop.

Interior of the Barrows Works.

Part of the old Samuelson Works.

Posted 10/12/09

Details of Michael's funeral are on the GDSF website at http://www.gdsf.co.uk/.

The funeral will be held on Tuesday 15th December at 2.00pm at St Nicholas Church Child Okeford, Dorset.

Due to limited parking a shuttle bus service will be operated from sign posted car parks. Those intending to attend are invited to ring the GDSF office 01258 860361 or email julian.hubbuck@gdsf.co.uk to enable the family to obtain some idea of the numbers expected.

Posted 03/12/09

It is with great sadness we have received the news of Michael Olivers passing; he was one of the great ambassadors of the traction engine movement and a mentor to so many

We offer deepest sympathy to Jean, Martin, Sarah and families

On behalf all Officers and members of the

National Traction Engine Trust

Posted 29/11/09

Martin Clark is a chartered engineer with a wide range of experience in steam preservation. Following repeated requests from people he knows Martin started to provide these services on a commercial basis some time ago. His main service is that of an independent boiler inspector, recognised by the NTET. (Please see his MGC Engineering advertisement in Steaming).

He is based in the Surrey/Hampshire/Berkshire borders area and he provides a service across the South East and South Central England.

He offers a 10% discount on boiler inspections for people who are able to show an up to date NTET membership card.

He can be contacted on 0118 9730098 or 07974 960 292 or e-mail martin.g.clark@googlemail.com

Posted 26/11/09

At the recent AGM a question was asked about the insurance cover given to the officers of the Trust. A more complete answer is given below.

The Trust has insurance cover provided by an 'Enthusiasts Club Combined Insurance Policy' brokered by Footman James which includes the following:

• Property Damage
• Business Interruption
• Money Cover
• Goods in Transit
• Employer Liability - including working members and volunteers
• Products Liability
• Libel and Slander
• Professional Indemnity - this applies to our Codes of Practice, replies to request for help, presentations made at conferences, seminars, forums, AGM's (i.e. all aspects of the NTET's advisory functions)

Posted 26/11/09

The Annual Awards Ceremony took place at the recent AGM at Meriden. It has become a tradition to consider members in the local area to the AGM although other members are not excluded.

Dacre Lacy Cup
This is awarded for an example of outstanding restoration. This went to Barry Cousins for his painstaking restoration of Sentinel DG6 Nippy. Unfortunately he was not present to receive the award.

Baker Toc H Cup
Bill Hunt was awarded the cup for the restoration of his Burrell showman's engine Wait and See.

Golden Film Shield
The shield was presented to Guy Debes for the restoration of Fowler single cylinder ploughing engine 2528.

Eric Middleton Trophy
This trophy is presented for the restoration of an engine which has been carried out with limited budgets and minimal equipment. This was awarded to Paul West for the restoration of Aveling & Porter E type roller 11446.

Arthur Napper Cup
Father and son team, Phil and Richard Jeffs received this award for the restoration of Fowler road loco Cynorthwywr.

Edney Shield
The shield was presented to Michael Davies for his service to the Trust and in particular for promoting steam ploughing through 'hands on experience' encouragement and guidance.

Choisy & Simpson Cup
Bob Payne received the cup for the help he has given numerous engine owners by carrying out meticulous research to enable detailed and accurate restorations.

Percy Hirons Bowl
The bowl is presented to an engine owner who carries out proper working demonstration. This went to Rob Freeman for using his elderly Marshall Sparks for all manner of belt work.

Curtis Bowl
This is awarded to an engine owner who takes an engine on long road journeys. This was a posthumously awarded to the late Jim Calder and the bowl was received by his widow, Sue and members of his family.

Posted 24/11/09

At the recent AGM, the Trust conferred honorary membership on three long standing members who have made significant contributions to our hobby over many years.

• Peter Barker
• John Crawley
• Joe Powell

An addition to the AGM published agenda is to be a presentation by Chris Boocock of the progress with the Independent Boiler Inspectors.

Posted 19/11/09

At the forthcoming AGM, the Trust will confer honorary membership on three long standing members who have made significant contributions to our hobby over many years.

• Peter Barker
• John Crawley
• Joe Powell

Sadly we report that Martin Chedgy, who will be well known to many Trust members, was involved in a fatal accident on Sunday 4th October 2009.

Our condolences go to his family and many friends.

Posted 12/10/09

2 DRIVING AND CONDUCT ON THE ROAD AND IN PUBLIC PLACES

2.1 INTRODUCTION

During the time when most steam traction engines were built and used in this country 'for a living', the roads carried very little mechanised traffic. When on the move the drivers' main concerns, beyond those related to steaming his charge, was for horse-drawn carriages, rough road surfaces, ditches and pedestrians. Today, driving a steam traction engine on crowded roads with mainly fast moving traffic is not for the faint hearted and requires considerable judgement and skill as well as the ability to competently steam and manage the engine. Although the average speed of the traction engine is only around 4-8mph and that of road locomotives around 12 mph the driver and steersman is required to give undivided attention to all other users, and passers-by. For those owners whose experience is limited to driving on the grass at rallies at low speeds there is no comparison with the harsh reality of the modern highway.

In order to become fully competent in the skills of engine driving and management it is not sufficient just to have a driving licence for a car or commercial vehicle and to be filled with enthusiasm; this approach is only for the foolhardy. As part of preserving our heritage in steam on the road, the NTET is committed to providing all traction engine drivers with the opportunities to learn and develop the necessary skills and techniques that today's modern roads demand. The voluntary Engine Driver Competency Scheme is designed to ensure that all of the necessary skills are known, understood and practised in a routine manner.

This Section 2 of the NTET Code of Practice covers the many aspects of driving on the road in a practical manner and draws upon the guidance and long experience of drivers of all types of steam traction engines. Reference should also be made to Part 1 of the Code of Practice for additional information, Sections 1.1. - General, 1.5. - Boiler Operation, 1.6. - Daily Operation and 1.7. - Action in An Emergency. However, for the purpose of continuity when reading, a limited amount of replication of other Sections of the COP will be found in this section.

Vehicles and their drivers using the public highways are subject to a number of Regulations and Acts of Parliament predominantly the Road Traffic Acts, the Construction and Use Regulations and the Motor Vehicles (Lighting) Regulations, all of which are varied from time to time. It is not the intention of this Code of Practice to quote such regulations verbatim as to do so will mean a constant stream of updates being required. Therefore, in all cases where clarification as to the precise wording and interpretation of the regulations is required, the reader is advised to obtain personal copies and to consult the relevant sections.

Some Regulations do not apply to vehicles over a certain age; July 1947 is a significant date for Steam Traction Vehicles but again the reader is urged to seek personal clarification on specific points as required.

There are a few publications, which provide good, additional background reading including:

• "Traction Engines and the Law" by David Tew and published by the NTET (now out of print)
• "Modern Manual for Drivers of Steam Road Vehicles" by W. Michael Salmon and published by Model Aeronautical Press Ltd (now out of print)
• "Steam Road Vehicles" by L. M. Meyrick-Jones and originally published by G.Iliffe and Sons Ltd., and reprinted in 1978 by the NTET.
• "Steam Wagon Manual" first published in 1918 and republished in 1994 by TEE Publishing
• "Driving and Operating Traction Engines" by Mike Dyson, published in 2007 by Haven Publishing. ISBN 978-0-9556147-0-5

The complete NTET Engine Owner's Code of Practice in Pdf format can be accessed by following the link http://www.NTET.co.uk/2007-COP.html

Posted 12/10/09

The Engine Owners Conference has been planned for Sunday 17th January at Willoughby and topics will include Competency and the Boiler Inspection Scheme. There may also be a Technical Talk.

Further details will be found in the next edition of Steaming.

Posted 12/10/09

The next Driving Course will be held on 8th and 9th May 2010.

Ways are being investigated in which we can encourage greater participation, particularly years 2 and 3. With this in mind we are proposing to introduce a fourth year for those who have completed years 1, 2, and 3 which would be entirely driving on the road (off site).

Further details will appear in the next edition of Steaming.

Posted 12/10/09

Paul Davis (Member No 15272) from Astwood Bank, Redditch, Worcestershire has been nominated for the General Council.

No formal motions have been received for discussion at the AGM of the Trust on Saturday 21st November 2009 at The Manor Hotel, Meriden.

Posted 28/09/09

Specialist steam insurance brokers Walker Midgley have scooped a major award at the UK Broker Awards 2009 ceremony. The Trust is delighted to be able to congratulate Tony Wood who heads up Walker Midgley and all his team on being awarded the Schemes Intermediary of the Year Award. This comes following much hard work and dedication to providing specialist insurance cover for not only miniature railway and road engines but also for full size road steam engines. In addition it acknowledges all the background work Tony has done in helping to develop and co-ordinate the Examination & Testing of Miniature Steam Boilers (New Edition 2008) code of practice and so highlights the depth of knowledge found within the company.

The NTET has been working with Walker Midgley for a number of years now as they act as issuing agents for the NTET Insurance Disc scheme. More recently Walker Midgley has developed with the Trust, specialist insurance schemes which offer exceptional cover for full size road steam engines underwritten Royal Sun Alliance.

Posted 09/09/09

• Dutch S'TEAMWORK team message - PDF Format (6.3mb)

A conference for all rally organisers, safety officers and other interested parties will take place.

On Saturday 31st October 2009, 9am

At Willoughby Village Hall, Near Rugby, Warwickshire CV23 8BX

The cost is £20 per delegate which includes coffee, a light lunch and afternoon tea. To book or to obtain further information please contact:

Tim Holt
Chairman, Rally Organisers Section
South View
Hutton Roof
Carnforth
Lancashire
LA6 2PF

Telephone 01524 271584 or email general.secretary@NTET.co.uk

Posted 09/09/09

The Trust marquee was once again the focus for traction engine enthusiasts in a prime position next to the heavy haulage arena. A team led by John Cook put on an impressive display with a very large bookstall, a display of engines, a demonstration of traditional lamp making, an art gallery and a large hospitality area. The volunteers in the hospitality area worked non-stop producing tea and coffee and queues quickly developed when the many heavy rain showers had everyone running for shelter. Officers of the Trust were on hand for most of the time to answer questions from members and non-members.

Our thanks go out to all who worked so hard in the marquee producing the displays and providing the much needed refreshments.

Engines displayed in the trust marquee.

The two meetings held in the marquee were a great improvement on previous years. Public address equipment made it possible for everyone to hear what was being said and a radio microphone enabled speakers from the floor to be heard.

On Wednesday evening Bob Garnett gave a resume on the new Voluntary Certificate of Competence which is the experience based alternative to the practical assessment. The new scheme was well received and all available application forms were taken. For those unable to attend the meeting, forms can be obtained by clicking on http://www.NTET.co.uk/pdf/vcoc_handout.pdf.

On Friday evening Robert Herring, chairman of the Trust, invited questions from members about the current work of the Trust. Topics covered included:

• Gift Aid for subscriptions
• Advice for driving engines on the road
• The relationship of steam car clubs with the Trust
• Incentives for new members

Please download the following Adobe Acrobat file to find out how to apply:

• NTET Voluntary C of C Handout

A serious incident occurred at Castle Fraser Rally on 20th June whereby two individuals were seen and filmed riding around the arena inside the two wheels of a traction engine.

The NTET deplores any action of this kind which is both suicidal and brings the Trust into disrepute.

The safety officers report has been received detailing the circumstances, and informing the Trust that the people concerned had been severely reprimanded.

Steps are to be taken by the Organisers to ensure that there is no recurrence of this malpractice. This report will be discussed by the General Council in October.

Before considering any future authorisation the Trust would require an absolute assurance that no such incidents will happen again.

Posted 26/08/09

The Northampton Borough Asset Management Department has negotiated a new home for Allchin roller 1131 with the Northampton & Lamport Railway Preservation Society. This single cylinder ten ton roller built in 1900 worked in the Borough until 1954. It appeared at a number of steam rallies but was dismantled for major repairs in the 1980's and then languished in the Council's Bridge Street Depot until recently. It was considered by those that viewed it to be at considerable risk.

On 24th July 2009 the roller was moved to the Northampton & Lamport Railway Preservation Society's premises at Chapel Brampton to the north of Northampton. The roller is 95% complete but some of the bearing brasses and a few other parts are missing. Work will start on the roller shortly and it is anticipated it will be five years before it is fully restored and back in steam.

Posted 18/08/09

Any member may submit a motion for discussion at the AGM on Saturday 21st November 2009 at the Manor Hotel, Meriden.

All motions should be in writing and signed by the proposer and seconder together with their respective memberships numbers. All items for discussion must reach the General Secretary by Saturday 19th September 2009 so they can be published in the Agenda for the AGM as required by Article 16 of the Trust's constitution.

Posted 12/08/09

The Trust has now produced information and guidance for the use of trailers when carrying passengers.

For more information please see the Adobe Acrobat file below:

• Use of trailers for carrying passengers

As announced in Steaming the AGM will take place at the Manor Hotel, Meriden, West Midlands on Saturday 21st November 2009.

Several members of the general Council are retiring by rotation after their three year period of office. All these members are eligible for re-election. In addition there are vacant positions on the General Council.

For a nomination paper follow the link below:

• Nomination Paper

The exhibition and sales unit will be attending the following events:

• Kemble, Gloucestershire: 31st July - 2nd August
• Fairford, Gloucestershire: 22nd - 23rd August
• Great Dorset Steam Fair: 2nd - 6th September
• Barleylands, Essex: 12th - 13th September
• Old Warden, Bedfordshire: 19th - 20th September

There will be an Open Forum at 7pm on Friday 4th September 2009 in the Trust's marquee. A public address system will be used to enable all speakers to be heard by the audience.

Posted 28/07/09

Once again the Trust will have a large marquee at the Great Dorset Steam Fair for the sales unit, hospitality area and displays.

The sales unit will have a wide selection of books, DVDs and clothing for sale. An art gallery featuring the work of Robin Wheeldon, John Hancox and John Wigston will again offer for sale a range of paintings at a variety of prices.

Volunteers will be providing tea and coffee for members and their friends. This is an ideal opportunity to renew your membership - or perhaps even persuade a friend to join!

The main display will feature two Marshall engines which both appeared in the Trust's 50th Anniversary display at Dorset in 2004. Michael Davison's 8nhp traction No 17134 now fully restored and Matthew Peacock's 6nhp traction which is nearing completion. In addition there will be a demonstration of engine oil lamp making by Roger Mills.

Members with concerns affecting engines and ownership will have the opportunity to talk to members of the Executive Committee or General Council. There will usually be two or three present.

Posted 19/07/09

The initial proposals for this scheme were outlined in the Winter 2008/2009 issue of Steaming. From responses, some valuable ideas have been received and incorporated. It has now been debated and approved with a few amendments by the General Council.

The scheme will be formally launched at the Great Dorset Steam Fair in the Trust marquee at 7.00pm, Wednesday, 2nd September 2009. Non-members are invited to attend.

Further details and application forms will be available shortly.

Posted 14/07/09

The latest edition of Steaming has now been published and all members should have received their copy by now.

There is usual mix of in-depth news and articles.

A major feature is Nippy Comes to Life (featured on the cover) being the story of the restoration of Sentinel DG6 No 7966. The waggon had been derelict for nearly 70 years but over the last seven years has been restored by Sentinel enthusiast Barry Cousins. All who have seen the waggon agree this has been restored to as near original condition as is possible. Others talk of this as being the restoration of the year. Reading the article makes it obvious this is an incredible achievement.

Posted 13/07/09

Steam car owners, please click onto the link http://www.steamcarassociation.org.uk/wiki/index.php/NSCA_News for information about MOT Certificates.

Posted 12/07/09

The Trust is very concerned about a dangerous incident that occurred at the recent Castle Fraser Steam Rally a video of which is been currently shown on YouTube.

This matter is being investigated as a matter of urgency. Normally the Safety Officer of an Authorised Event is required to submit a safety report within 30 days of the closure of the event. In this case however the Safety Officer has been asked by the Trust to submit his report as soon as is possible. Once all of the relevant facts have been gathered the Trust will closely scrutinise the information before deciding on any action it may take, appropriate to its findings.

Posted 26/06/09

With the ever increasing interest in Steam Car preservation, the National Traction Engine Trust were approached by a group of well known Steam Car Owners who as a result have formed the National Steam Car Association, very much affiliated to the National Traction Engine Trust, sharing in general the same principles and aims as the NTET.

The objects of the new National Steam Car Association are, apart from catering for all those interested in Steam Cars themselves, to promote responsible preservation, restoration and conservation of all steam cars, including those of both historic and educational value. Members of the new NSCA, aim to take part in not only their own activities, but to integrate with the NTET's Steam Apprentice Club and Approved Rallies and Events, allowing their interest in Steam Cars to be spread amongst all steam related groups. Together with the NTET they aim to develop a guide for all Steam Car users, covering maintenance, restoration and the general running and regular examinations of the pressure systems, so that anyone interested can come to the NTET for the same advice and support as any new Engine owner, likewise the Steam Apprentice Club will have a route for any younger members specifically showing an interest in cars. Another important activity of the new NSCA will be to build a historic archive, pattern register and technical support for all cars in preservation. Like the NTET, the NSCA will share the objective of 'Preserving our heritage with steam on the road'.

David Webster, well known to both the traction engine and steam car fraternity will be the NSCA'a first Chairman. David was one of the initial End to End runners in his Sentinel S4 in 1977 and previous owner of the Sentinel S6 'TARMAC' waggon, before retiring from bigger things and taking up his own interest and ownership of a Stanley Steamer several years ago, being an active member of the steam car fraternity.

Membership is being handled by Mrs Diana Goddard and all enquires for membership can be addressed to her or Sally-Ann Dod who is the new Company Secretary. Membership is £25.00 per year.

The new National Steam Car Association has its newly developed website, www.steamcarassociation.org.uk, where full contact details can be found and they plan to publish a quarterly and informative magazine to all members.

The new National Steam Car Association will be staging its main launch at this year's Great Dorset Steam Fair, where the NTET will be hosting the new Club with a display of steam cars in its marquee and all those interested will be welcome.

For more information contact:

Sally-Ann Dod, Middleton Lodge Farm Astrop Road Middleton Cheney Banbury OX17 2PJ email: - sallyanndod@hotmail.com Mb: - 07970721976

Membership: Diana Goddard ,29 Nibs Heath Montford Bridge, Shrewsbury Shropshire SY4 1HL email: - steamcargb@aol.com Tel: - 01939 260595

Posted 16/06/09

Over the last few months members of the Technical Services Unit and the Rally Organisers Section have been working to develop an internet based Insurance Disc Enquiry service. The scheme was officially declared live over the past weekend.

This new on-line service enables organisers of Authorised Events to check the validity of Insurance Discs of steam exhibits attending their events, prior to them actually attending the event. Access to this service is obtained by using a combination of the Event Authorisation Reference and a unique password, the specific contents of each will be included in individual 'Authorised Rally Packs'. For this year only supplementary letters have been sent to the organisers of Authorised Events that post date this weekend advising them of their access arrangements.

Full details of the scheme will appear in Steaming Magazine and in the Rally Organisers' Code of Practice.

Posted 16/06/09

After considerable research, hard work and last minute tweaking by its authors, Bob Garnett, Stuart Tomlinson and Tony Seddon, the General Council is pleased to announce that it has approved the formal launch of the 'Experience Based' route to the award of a Competency Certificate. This 'alternative route' will dovetail completely into the existing 'Examination based' route leading to the award of common Certificates of Competency.

Full details of this scheme, along with application forms will be available on this website later in the year with the formal launch planned to take place at the Great Dorset Steam Fair. The Engine Owners' Code of Practice will also be modified to include details of the combined scheme.

Posted 16/06/09

The Exhibition and Sales Unit will be appearing at the following events:

• Strumpshaw, Norfolk - 23rd to 25th May
• St Albans, Hertfordshire. - 30th to 31st May
• Banbury, Oxfordshire - 27th to 28th June
• Helmsley, North Yorkshire - 4th to 5th July
• Ardingly, Sussex - 11th to 12th July
• Langport, Somerset - 17th to 19th July
• Boconnoc, Cornwall - 24th to 26th July
• Kemble, Gloucestershire - 31st July to 2nd August

The Steam Apprentice Club is holding a special driving day to mark their 30th Anniversary. This will be held at Old Warden Park, Near Biggleswade, Bedfordshire over the weekend of 27th -28th June 2009. This is a superb venue and probably known to many people as the site of the Bedford Steam Engine Preservation Society's annual rally in September.

This is an exciting event for all youngsters interested in traction engines and as expected there are large numbers who want to attend. However, although over 40 engines are already booked - more are needed!

This is not a public event but one which is dedicated to apprentices to learn and practice their skills. If you would like to bring your engine please contact Kevin Munns (SAC Chairman) at sac.chairman@NTET.co.uk as soon as possible. Expenses will be paid to participating engines.

Posted 21/05/09

For some time rally organisers of large NTET authorised events have been able to have information provided about the details of the discs for engines attending their event. The information will soon be available online for all authorised events. Each event will be given a password so they can access the website and view the latest insurance disc information.

The new scheme is in an advanced stage of development and once the outcome of proving tests have been evaluated it will be released for general use later this year.

Posted 12/05/09

The advice from the National Traction Engine Trust is that: -

Steam Cars of any type attending an Authorised Rally, or appearing in a public place should be able to demonstrate that an independent examination of the steam generation and pressurised fuel supply systems has been undertaken.

This advice is given to ensure that they are adhering to the NTET's 'Duty of Care' ethos and Health and Safety Policy, both of which are in the public domain.

Issued on behalf of the Executive Committee of the National Traction Engine Trust

Posted 01/05/09

From 'Steaming' Spring 2009

It has recently been brought to the notice of the Trust that there are commercially made boilers manufactured after 30th May 2002 in use without CE marking. These boilers are either miniature traction engine boilers or boilers for locomotives up to 10¼ inch gauge, although we have just heard of a boiler for a steam car being affected.

For those unaware of the Pressure Equipment Regulations 1999, it is an offence for a boiler built commercially after 30th May 2002 to be sold unless the boiler is safe, meets essential safety requirements covering design, manufacture and testing, satisfies appropriate conformity assessment procedures and is accompanied by a declaration of conformity and carries CE marking.

The full text of the article will be found on pp 60 and 61 of 'Steaming'.

Posted 19/04/09

The latest edition of Steaming has now been published and all members should have received their copy.

As usual there is a good mixture of news, technical tips and articles about traction engines. This edition has an excellent article by Derek Rayner about steam wagons which operated in the Dewsbury area of Yorkshire. Some research in the Kirklees Image Archive has brought to light a number of interesting photographs. This would suggest there is a wealth of photographs of traction engines in local authority archives which are waiting to be 'discovered'.

Posted 19/04/09

Caveat Emptor [Latin, Let the buyer beware.] A warning that notifies a buyer that the goods he or she is buying are "as is," or subject to all defects.

A term not very often used these days but when a sale is subject to this warning the purchaser assumes the risk that the product might be either defective or unsuitable to his or her needs.

This rule is not designed to shield sellers who engage in Fraud or bad faith dealing by making false or misleading representations about the quality or condition of a particular product. It merely summarises the concept that a purchaser must examine, judge, and test a product considered for purchase himself or herself.

However, the modern trend in consumer protection laws is designed to minimise the importance of this rule and, although the buyer is still required to make a reasonable inspection of goods upon purchase, increased responsibilities have been placed upon the seller, and the doctrine of caveat venditor (Latin for "let the seller beware") has become more prevalent.

Generally, there is a legal presumption that a seller makes certain warranties unless the buyer and the seller agree otherwise. One such Warranty is the Implied Warranty of merchantability. If a person buys soap, for example, there is an implied warranty that it will clean; if a person buys a car, there is an implied warranty that it will be safe to drive, unless otherwise stated.

Importantly, a seller who is in the business of regularly selling a particular type of goods has still greater responsibilities in dealing with an average customer. A person purchasing antiques from an antique dealer, or jewellery from a jeweller, is justified in his or her reliance on the expertise of the seller. And so it is with a dealer specialising in the sale of antique steam equipment.

However, and notwithstanding the presence of consumer protection laws, the NTET's strongest advice to a potential owner is 'take nothing for granted'. The NTET recommends that despite the absence of a 'caveat emptor' notice alerting a potential owner to the possibility of defects likely to affect the 'fitness for purpose' status of a traction engine up for sale, and even where there are boiler examination reports purporting to vouchsafe the item, that any potential purchaser should enlist the services of a reputable inspector surveyor who is not associated or even familiar with the history of the item being offered in order to obtain an up to date and qualified opinion upon which to make a reasoned judgement of value and suitability. In simple terms 'don't believe what you see or read without further qualification'! If you are serious about becoming the owner of a particular item then obtain a qualified opinion from a reputable independent source before parting with your money!

Recent events reported by correspondents to the Trust paint a woeful picture of moneys spent badly, naivety on the part of buyers and blatant misrepresentation by sellers that should know better.

So, 'Buyer Beware'!

Posted 24/03/09

Places are still available for the 19th course which will be held at Astwood Bank near Redditch, Worcestershire over the weekend of the 9th and 10th May 2009.

This is an excellent practical course on boiler management, mechanical operation, care and maintenance and driving techniques. The cost for adult members is £176.25 for the two days. Steam Apprentice Club members aged 13 to 15 will be charged £58.75 and those aged 16 to 21 £88.12

For further details please contact Stuart Tomlinson: hazel.tomlinson@homecall.co.uk.

Posted 17/03/09

The conversion of Fowler DNB roller 17506 has once again brought the issue of the conversion of engines to the fore. A number of members have contacted the Chairman requesting the Trust should take further action and some have gone further to accuse the Trust of 'sitting on the fence.' There is widespread support for doing something.

The policy statement agreed at the National Committee meeting held on 19th March 2000 reads as follows:

One of the major objectives of the National Traction Engine Trust is to preserve our steam heritage, including the original design of steam road vehicles, their use and maintenance. Therefore the Trust does not support in any way the conversion of any steam road vehicle into a form which that particular machine never had during its working life.

It was hoped the statement would create sufficient publicity and dissuade those considering converting an engine. Unfortunately this policy has failed and the Trust now feels that it should explore other ways of addressing this important issue.

The recent FIVA definition of a Mechanically Propelled Historic Road Vehicle as one "which is preserved and maintained in a historically correct condition" has been welcomed and is being considered carefully. This may raise issues with VOSA/DVLA and recent correspondence with FBHVC suggests some owners of converted engines may be acting illegally. Further advice is being sought on this matter.

A small working party has been established to look at what action can be taken by the Trust bearing in mind it has no law-making powers. A number of suggestions have been made which include publishing a list of converted engines and circulating it to the organisers of authorised rallies. However, preparing an accurate list is fraught with difficulties.

More information about this thorny topic will be published in the next edition of Steaming .

Practical ideas on how the Trust can limit and perhaps even halt the conversion of more engines are urgently needed. If you have a suggestion please contact public.relations@NTET.co.uk.

Posted 14/03/09

The author of the E mail posted on 19/2/09 is correct in that the extract does NOT ask for an NTET Certificate of Competence, it merely states that drivers of steam vehicles will be required to be competent. As Rally Organisers We would categorically state that it is in all our interests that drivers operating steam vehicles at rallies should be competent to do so. We doubt that even our worst critics could argue with that..

As regards PROVING competency, having a certificate to show that you have demonstrated to an examiner that you know what you are doing is ONE way. There are a number of others which I feel would be acceptable, certainly to us and no doubt to other event organisers.

1. Being a past/present member of the SAC and learning the trade by being supervised by an expert.

2. Attending the driving days and proving that you are capable of handling a steam vehicle.

3. Having your own private arrangements and been instructed in the necessary skills by an experienced driver, who in a local area would almost certainly be well known and respected by the Rally Organiser

It goes without saying that if during the event any driver was clearly seen to be a liability to both himself and the public the appropriate action would need to be taken regardless of whether a driver was the holder of a competency certificate or not.

We would have thought that any potential entrants to the Cumbria Steam Gathering, Barnard Castle Steam Fair or any other rally who were uneasy about the wording on the entry form would have phoned the Organiser for clarification before signing and submitting the entry form. Any delay by not completing the form, as was suggested by the unnamed author of the E mail, may well have led to a late entry which would not have been accepted by the Cumbria Steam Society.

This matter would appear to have escalated out of all proportion and such phrases as 'it has come to the notice of the Trust' and 'the matter is currently being investigated by the Trust' is not helpful in establishing a good working relationship between engine owners and rally organisers both of which spent a great deal of voluntary time, effort , finance and expertise in keeping our hobby up and running. Long may it continue.

For the record, the General Council on the 8th March suggested that the word 'show' could perhaps, for more clarity, be replaced by 'demonstrate' to indicate that proof of competency need not necessarily be in paper form. I have no argument with this but it is too late for an alteration to be made for 2009 as entry forms have been circulated and 95% returned, including some from senior members of the Trust who had no difficulty or issues with the wording.

Tim Holt
Rally Organiser, Cumbria Steam Gathering

John Toulson
Rally Organiser, Barnard Castle Steam Fair.

Posted 11/03/09

Work continues on the Experienced Based Route for the Voluntary Certificate of Competence. It has been decided to operate a trial with around 20 or 30 people chosen from all parts of the country and representing owners of different types of steam vehicle. Once the trial has been completed the scheme will be ready for operation.

The scheme will be launched at the Great Dorset Steam Fair.

Application forms will be available on this website. Application will be free of charge to Trust members but the cost to non-members will be £25.00 which is the same as the annual subscription.

Posted 11/03/09

A few places are still available for the final seminar which takes place on 21st March 2009 at
Willoughby Village Hall,
Willoughby,
Warwickshire

The subjects to be covered will include:-

• Defining Hazard and Risk
• Risk Assessments
• Control Measures
• Identification of Hazards
• Manual Handling
• Slips, Trips and Falls
• Noise
• Safe Access
• Transport Safety
• Organisation, Planning and Implementing
• Health and Safety Plan
• Open Forum

The cost of the full days seminars including refreshments and a light lunch will be:-

* £25 for the first delegate * £20 for subsequent delegates * Groups five or over by negotiation

Delegates will be certificated on completion of the days training seminar.

To reserve place(s) please contact Tim Holt (Chairman of the Rally Organisers Section) Tel. 01524 271584

Posted 11/03/09

The above matter was discussed at the General Council Meeting on Sunday 8th March 2009. For further information see the earlier posting dated 19th February 2009 (below).

The organisers have been contacted and both agree the wording is ambiguous. In addition they have said a Certificate of Competence is not a requirement for entry to their events. A statement by the two organisers will be placed on this website shortly.

Posted 09/03/09

It has come to the notice of the Trust that two rally organisers are using the following wording as a condition of entry for steam vehicles:

As of 2008 all drivers of steam vehicles will be required to be competent operators show proof of competency. The NTET is now operating a testing scheme.

The wording on the forms is ambiguous. It does not explicitly request an NTET Certificate of Competence. However, until this matter can be resolved with the event organisers it is suggested no one completes an entry form with this wording.

The matter is currently being investigated by the Trust and will be discussed at the next meeting of the General Council is on Sunday 8th March 2009. The results of these discussions and recommendations for engine drivers will be published on this website.

Posted 19/02/09

The Federation of British Historic Vehicle Clubs (FBHVC) Drive It Day will be on Sunday 26th April 2009:

A statement from FBHVC:

"Drive It Day demonstrates our commitment to keeping old vehicles on the road, where they belong. We are showing the public, the press and the politicians that the historic vehicle movement is a large group of people from all social and political spectra that is devoted to preserving our road transport heritage.

Just think: what would you do with your historic vehicle if you were told you could no longer use it? Sell it? Fine. But who would buy it if they could not use it either?

With that in mind, can you think of anything more basic and more important to the owner of a historic vehicle than the right to use it?

And that's what FBHVC is all about. FBHVC exists to uphold the freedom to use old vehicles on the road. Drive It Day is to show politicians and public alike why that is so important.

Worried about the environment? Aren't we all. Historic vehicles represent less than one thousandth of overall traffic - which is why you hardly see them - except on days like DID. The aim is simply for historic vehicles to be seen on the highway so the public is reminded they exist and that there are lots of people involved in preserving them for posterity."

If your engine can be steamed, please consider joining the throng for a modest trundle.

For more details see http://www.fbhvc.co.uk/events/drive-it-day-09.htm

Posted 16/02/09

The 2009 Rally list will be available in March when all the relevant information has been received and compiled. The list will then be available from tourist Offices or direct from Bill Evans rallies@ntet.co.uk or Jenny Holt general.secretary@ntet.co.uk.

Posted 10/02/09

The list of NTET Authorised Rallies for 2009 is now available on the site, please visit the events page by clicking the link below:

• Events Page

The 19th course will be held at Astwood Bank near Redditch, Worcestershire over the weekend of the 9th and 10th May 2009.

This is an excellent practical course on boiler management, mechanical operation, care and maintenance and driving techniques. The cost for adult members is £176.25 for the two days. Steam Apprentice Club members aged 13 to 15 will be charged £58.75 and those aged 16 to 21 £88.12

For further details please contact Stuart Tomlinson: hazel.tomlinson@homecall.co.uk.

Posted 30/01/09

The Rally Authorisation scheme is progressing apace and at the latest count there were 105 applications from Rallies and other similar events. Once these have been processed and approved the Rally List will be compiled and only then distributed.

Distribution will also be via Steaming and of course the Trust's sales unit. The tourist authorities will also have them at their distribution outlets. The magazine 'Best of British' is to distribute thousands of lists as an insert in their magazine.

Event Organisers are well aware of all the benefits from Authorisation so, please, if you have not already done so, submit your application to the Rally Authorisation Officer, Bill Evans at rallies@ntet.co.uk.

Posted 28/01/09

The latest edition of Steaming is now available to members.

Among the many interesting articles is a fascinating one about the early days of the North Staffordshire & Cheshire Traction Engine Club and their early rallies at Alton Towers.

As always the magazine has an excellent mix of archive and more recent photographs of traction engines.

Posted 26/01/09

The Federation Internationale des vehicules Anciens (FIVA) has finally decided on a definition of an 'historic' vehicle. It is a mechanically propelled road vehicle:

• At least 30 years old
• Preserved and maintained in an historically correct condition
• Not used for a daily means of transport
• Part of our technical and cultural heritage

You are invited to attend the Training Seminars at one of the following venues:-

14th February 2009
The New Charnwood
4 Westgate
Heckmondwike,
W. Yorkshire
WF16 0EH

28th February 2009
Burbage Village Hall,
Eastcourt Road,
Burbage,
Marlborough,
Wilts.
SN8 3AJ

21st March 2009
Willoughby Village Hall,
Willoughby,
Warwickshire

Please select the venue which suits you best.

The subjects to be covered will include:-

• Defining Hazard and Risk
• Risk Assessments
• Control Measures
• Identification of Hazards
• Manual Handling
• Slips, Trips and Falls
• Noise
• Safe Access
• Transport Safety
• Organisation, Planning and Implementing
• Health and Safety Plan
• Open Forum

Some engine owners are still being asked to provide MOT certificates when licensing their vehicles at local post offices. We were told by the DVLA sometime ago that this is due to a glitch in the database that the Post Office accesses when reading the bar code details on the DVLA reminder. However, it still persists unfortunately.

The resolution to the problem is to fill in the form V112/G, which is linked below, and hand it over the local PO counter.

For qualification of the exemption see Item 29 page 2 on V112/G

• V112/G Form - PDF Format (231kb)

A recently repaired boiler has suffered rivet failure with the heads of rivets shearing off shortly after the boiler was returned to service. After independent analysis some of the rivets were found to be made of inappropriate material which contained small amounts of nickel and chrome.

A boiler maker has described a piece of boiler plate which after being hot-formed cracked and had areas where the plate delaminated.

These two incidents would appear to be isolated examples but if anyone has personal experience of either type of failure they are asked to contact the Trust at: engines@ntet.co.uk

Posted 12/01/09

Discussion of the proposed Experienced Based Route for the Voluntary Certificate of Competence took place at the recent Engine Owners' meeting.

Initially 500 hours of 'in steam' experience was considered to be a minimum for this part of the scheme. However, the meeting thought this figure too low. On a show of hands the majority favoured raising the figure to 750 hours but there was a significant minority who thought an increase to 1000 hours was preferable.

It is anticipated the final details for the Experienced Based Route for the Voluntary Certificate of Competence will be completed shortly so it can be introduced in early May. Application forms will be available on this website. Application will be free of charge to Trust members but the cost to non-members will be £25.00 which is the same as the annual subscription.

Posted 12/01/09

The following document is being provided in hard copy form at the Engine Owners Conference on Sunday.

You can download in the handout in advance of the conference by clicking the link below:

• Competency Scheme Development, Engine Owners Conference Handout - PDF Format (153kb)

The experienced based route to obtaining a Certificate of Competence is in draft form and discussion will take place at the forthcoming Engine Owners Meeting. The flow chart linked below shows the three existing routes to obtaining the certificate with the proposed new experience also shown.

Please click the links below to see the flow chart:

• Flow Diagram - jpg format
• Flow Diagram - Word Format

1. Welcome and introduction

2. Apologies

3. Minutes of Meeting held on 17th February 2008

4. Matters arising from the minutes

5. Where the Buck Stops - The Responsibilities & Liabilities of Engine Owners & Drivers - Chris Boocock

6. Insurance Matters - James Blenkinsop

7. Independent Boiler Inspections - Progress & Plans - Chris Boocock

8. Steam Apprentice Club - Kevin Munn

9. Competency, a second route - Bob Garnett

10. Reporting of incidents and near misses

11. NTET Matters - Robert Herring

12. AOB

The meeting will take place at The Village Hall, Willoughby, near Rugby.

It will start at 11.00am with coffee being served from 10.30am.

All owners of engines, drivers, potential owners and all others involved in the operation of steam road vehicles are invited to attend - whether they are members of the Trust or not.

Posted 23/12/08

The Vehicle and Operator Services Agency (VOSA) are proposing increased charges for tests on HGV vehicles as part of their cost harmonisation programme. VOSA are running a consultation programme, due to end on 29th January; follow this link for more details, www.dft.gov.uk/consultations/open/vosafees.

Having read the documentation one might find it difficult to argue about the rationale leading to the proposed increase in fees. However, the implication for the hobby owner of HGV's, of which there are many within the traction engine movement, do not appear to figure in the considerations leading up to the proposals.

Under the proposed arrangements the cost of an annual test on a two axle unit and a two axle trailer combination is set to rise from £89 to £124 and for a three axle unit and a two axle trailer from £111 to £155. The non-commercial owner (hobby owner) has no means of recouping the increases which some will perversely interpret to be a tax on our hobby.

Posted 21/12/08

At the 2007 AGM a motion was passed.

That a formal review be made of the Driver Competency Scheme after the 2007 rally season and this completed review to be returned to the 2008 AGM for open discussion and acceptance.

The review was published in the Autumn edition of Steaming (Vol 51 No 4) pages 177 - 179.

The review was not included in the 2008 AGM Agenda but discussion of the Alternative Voluntary Competency Scheme did take place. Apologies are offered as the review should have been included.

Posted 16/12/08

The agenda for the above meeting has not been finalised but the following three items have already been included:

• Insurance
• The Voluntary Certificate of Competence - Bob Garnett
• Engine Owner's Responsibilities - Chris Boocock

Since Derek Rayner has taken on the role of Authenticating Officer for reclaiming 'Lost Registration Numbers' under the DVLA V765 Scheme he has received a number of enquiries from Trust members wishing to reclaim the registrations for their engines which have for one reason or another have lapsed.

A few of these enquiries have been pursued in the right and proper manner, the forms completed, the various bits of traceable documentary evidence provided and the respective owners have eventually received the necessary V5C for the engine. Members are reminded it is the engine owner's responsibility to provide adequate traceable documentary evidence to prove that they have is what they say it is.

There have been a number of enquiries which for whatever reason have not been pursued. This may mean the engine in question does not have a current V5C. To take an engine out onto the road without such a document is unlawful and should a problem arise, it will negate whatever insurance is held for the engine. It may result in 'points on licence' and perhaps even a driving ban. This is a similar situation for those people who drive a steam roller without a Category G Licence and without 'L' plates.

Since last year there have been minor changes regarding V765 applications. All vehicles now have to be inspected prior to the forms being sent to Swansea. In addition, DVLA require a report on any V765 claims which have been turned down and it is understood they will not allow the registration mark to be issued. An enquiry is not an application. However, where any enquirer in this situation is known to the Authenticating Officer who has seen photographic evidence with the engine being used on the road then he will know it is being used unlawfully. Advice is being sought on this matter so the Authenticating Officer and the Trust are not compromised in any way.

Members who have sought advice about V765 applications and not pursued them may at some point in the future find themselves unable to have the historically correct registration mark for their engine.

'Dating Letters' can be provided for applications for a 'new' age related registration number for a recent import. This uses the same yardstick as required for V765 applications.

Posted 16/12/08

The future of the surviving buildings of the former Aveling & Porter premises at Strood in Kent is in doubt and the Friends of the Medway Archives (FOMA) are seeking support in a bid to protect the company offices built just a hundred years ago with a preservation order.

We have only a short time to wait until the full history of Aveling & Porter is published but here it will suffice to record that in 1933 the firm left the Strood works for Grantham, the result of the debacle that was the Agricultural & General Engineers combine. When the engineering firm Winget vacated the works in the early 1980's, much of the site was developed by the then Rochester upon Medway City Council, including the building of a new civic centre. Now through central government policies, the offices have moved on and the former Aveling site is to be for sale for housing development.

FOMA worried that the original building will be subject to a demolition order have applied to English Heritage to order a halt on this until the site can be investigated and hopefully have a preservation order placed to protect the historic property for the future. Members interested in supporting the local group can contact John Witheridge, vice chairman, at Friends of the Medway Archives, Medway Archives and Local Studies Centre, Strood, Kent or by email john.witheridge@googlemail.com Alternatively further promotion could be made to English heritage Russell.mann@english-heritage.org.uk.

Posted 16/12/08

Over the past few weeks Bob Garnett has been working with other Trust members to devise a experience based process leading to the award of a Competency Certificate in accordance with the NTET’s Voluntary Competency Scheme. This additional route is being designed to dovetail into the existing scheme processes and will lead to the award of a common Certificate.

It is proposed that the integrated scheme will consist of the existing 3 Examination Based Options (Self Sponsoring, Steam Apprentice and Adult Mentoring) plus the new 'Experienced Based Option'. Bob is currently devising a discussion document which will provide the details of the processes in the 'Experience Based Option' and it is anticipated this will be discussed at the General Council Meeting on Sunday 14th December.

Integrated Competency Scheme Diagram [pdf format - 43kb]

Posted 13/12/08

It is with much sadness that we report the passing of David Hirst on the 6th of December after a long illness.

All his friends within the NTET are welcome to attend his funeral which will be held at St Peter's Church, St Mary Bourne, Andover on Friday 19th December. The cortege will leave at 14:00 and is expected outside 'The George' in The Square at 14:20 for a short stop before moving on down to St Peter's Church @ 14:30. It is hoped that many of will be able to join the family after the service in the village center.

More details and a map can be found on the Traction Talk forum.

Posted 12/12/08

Past President Giles Romanes celebrated his birthday with family and many friends including several from the steam world at his home near Edenbridge Kent on Sunday.

Posted 11/12/08

The next meeting for drivers and enginemen will be held at the Village Hall, Willoughby, near Rugby, Warwickshire on:

Sunday 11th January 2009

The meeting will start at 11.00am with coffee served from 10.30am. A buffet lunch will be provided.

The meeting is open to all owners, crew, potential owners and all others interested in the working of preserved road steam vehicles - WHETHER THEY ARE TRUST MEMBERS OR NOT. This is an excellent opportunity to share your concerns about the future of our hobby with like-minded people.

If you wish to have a topic discussed please contact Bob Siddall, Chairman of the Engine Owners Section at RGSiddall@aol.com

Nearer the time an agenda will be published on this website.

Posted 09/12/08

At the recent meeting of FIVA representatives held in Brussels, including members of the FBHVC the long running issue of determining the definition of a 'historic' vehicle was finalised. The wording agreed is;-

FIVA defines a historic vehicle as a mechanically propelled road vehicle: which is at least 30years old; which is preserved and maintained in a historically correct condition; which is not used as a daily means of transport; and which is therefore a part of our technical and cultural heritage.

The definition is considered important, most for political lobbying purposes. For example, the EU Commission have given indications that while they are happy to consider legislative exemption for a reasonably small number of vehicles, used for relatively low mileages, they would become concerned if the number of vehicles or the mileage they covered grew too large. It is hoped that by lifting the defined age to 30 and excluding vehicles used for daily transport, this would be avoided.

Posted 30/11/08

At the recent annual dinner which followed the AGM at Shaftesbury, Trust President, Richard Sandercock presented the Golden Film Shield to the Oliver family for the great contribution made by them in promoting our hobby through the Great Dorset Steam Fair. The photograph shows the shield being accepted by Michael Oliver on behalf of his family.

The shield was given to the Trust many years ago by Morris Oils of Shrewsbury.

Posted 25/11/08

The alternative competence scheme is designed to run in parallel with the existing formal examination route to basic competence in the driving and handling of steam powered road vehicles. The certificate of competency obtained after successfully completing either competency route will be identical in all respects.

This scheme is not an examination process but a peer review of engine and boiler operational staff with regard as to how engines are handled.

The rational behind the need for a parallel route to basic engine handling competence is to ensure a completely inclusive scheme open to all members who can demonstrate a competence acquired over a period of engine operation and subject to a peer review and the completion of a short safety orientated question paper will seen to have proved themselves to be competent.

It should also be taken into consideration where people coming into the hobby with a certain amount of demonstrable competence but not sufficient to complete the whole experience route to competence, such that recommendations can be made as to requirements both by the experience route and the formal examination route to achieve competence can be advised.

It should be noted that the legal age for operating steam powered road vehicles in the United Kingdom is 21 years. With this in mind the experience route would not normally be open to candidates below this age.

Whilst operation of engines on the public highways is part of the experience that would form part of any competence submission, enginemen who do not operate engines on the public road will not be barred from this route to competence.

Posted 18/11/08

The latest version of the Voluntary Certificate of Competency Syllabus can be found on the Owners & Drivers page, or click the links below:

• Outline of the Scheme [pdf]
• Competency Syllabus [pdf]

Motion A

That in order to protect the voluntary nature of any form of Certificate of Competency (CofC) introduced by the National Traction Engine Trust (N.T.E.T.) that a statement is introduced into the Certificate of Competency syllabus stating that the General Council of the N.T.E.T does not seek to make the holding of a CofC conditional upon being invited to attend an N.T.E.T authorised event.

Proposed: Andrew Bradbury (member 12263)
Seconded: Ken Milnes (member 14691)

The motion was carried with a large majority.

Motion B

That any authorised rally found to be requiring drivers and operators of steam vehicles to hold a voluntary CofC as a condition of exhibit entry has its authorization reviewed.

Proposed: Ken Milnes (member 14691)
Seconded: Andrew Bradbury (member 12263)

The motion was defeated with a significant number of abstentions.

Posted 16/11/08

All five nominees for the Trust's General Council were elected. Unfortunately Colin Brown from Luton was busy working on the Trust's bookstall when the photographs were taken and his photograph is not included.

Joe Black who is shortly moving to Yorkshire

Sue Doncaster from Colchester

Adam Marriott from Warwickshire

Stuart Gray from Hertfordshire

Posted 16/11/08

The recently announced Drivers Certificate of Professional Competency (CPC), managed by the Driving Standards Agency should not be confused with the CPC that transport managers and the like have to undertake.

Full information is available in the latest edition of Steaming.

Posted 12/11/08

At the recent Executive meeting it was agreed to appoint Jennifer Holt as the new General Secretary. This will come into effect immediately after the AGM. The current Secretary Sue Jackson will retire at the AGM after seventeen years being in the position.

Posted 10/11/08

A meeting between the executive of the Trust and Andrew Bradbury and Ken Milns discussed the two motions for the AGM at a meeting on Thursday 6th November 2008. It has been agreed the original motions will now read as follows:

Motion A

That in order to protect the voluntary nature of any form of Certificate of Competency (CofC) introduced by the National Traction Engine Trust (N.T.E.T.) that a statement is introduced into the Certificate of Competency syllabus stating that the General Council of the N.T.E.T does not seek to make the holding of a CofC conditional upon being invited to attend an N.T.E.T authorised event.

Proposed: Andrew Bradbury (member 12263)
Seconded: Ken Milnes (member 14691)

Motion B

That any authorised rally found to be requiring drivers and operators of steam vehicles to hold a voluntary CofC as a condition of exhibit entry has its authorization reviewed.

Proposed: Ken Milnes (member 14691)
Seconded: Andrew Bradbury (member 12263)

The Annual General Meeting will take place at The Royal Chase Hotel, Shaftesbury on Saturday 15th November 2008 at 2.00pm

Posted 07/11/08

There will be a meeting of Competency Assessors in January 2009. This has now become an annual event which gives an opportunity for assessors to discuss the scheme and suggest ways to refine and improve it.

Posted 07/11/08

The Steam Apprentice Club is currently carrying out a review of its Child Protection Policy which has now been in operation for nearly two years.

Posted 05/11/08

Plans are well advanced for web access to the NTET Disk data by the organisers of NTET Authorised Rallies. Further details will be available later.

Posted 05/11/08

Recently the thorny issue of conversions has been much discussed.

This has been debated by the Trust many times. A motion was put forward by Lyndon Shearman at the Lincoln AGM in 1999 which was carried. It was felt at the time making people aware was the only way to deal with this difficult issue as the Trust is in no position to dictate terms.

The policy statement agreed at the National Committee meeting held on 19th March 2000 reads as follows:

One of the major objectives of the National Traction Engine Trust is to preserve our steam heritage, including the original design of steam road vehicles, their use and maintenance. Therefore the Trust does not support in any way the conversion of any steam road vehicle into a form which that particular machine never had during its working life.

Posted 02/11/08

The NTET has a lot of information about patterns, who owns them and how they may be loaned for having castings made. Colin Hatch is currently preparing a web document.

The data will be made available on this website when the work has been completed.

Posted 02/11/08

Engines driving on the roads during the winter months are advised to carry adequate lights even if they do not anticipate driving after dark.

In addition to the required side-lights and tail-lights drivers should consider using a flashing beacon or LED strobe lights.

Currently LED Strobe Amber Lights are available for around £20. These are very effective. They are normally sold in pairs and each light unit contains 24 LED's. They run off a 12 volt car battery and consume 4 - 6 watts. A selection of flashing modes can be used.

Posted 29/10/08

After the AGM at Shaftesbury on Saturday 15th November 2008 there will be an informal dinner at the Royal Chase Hotel. Tickets for the four course meal are available at £26.00 per person. A vegetarian option is available.

Tickets must be booked with the General Secretary and paid for in advance before 7th November at the latest. Please send your cheque payable to the NTET to The General Secretary, Susan Jackson, 16 Lady Garne Road, West Hougham, Dover, Kent CT15 7BA

Posted 29/10/08

At the recent Rally Organisers and Safety Officers Conference Bob Siddall, Chairman of the Engine Owners Section gave an illustrated presentation of the various types of steam coal, its quality, availability and estimated cost. He also talked about firing techniques and the control of smoke.

Posted 27/10/08

Attending this event were 114 representatives from authorised rallies, affiliated clubs and others.

Risk Management

Mike Garstang explained that anyone associated with running an event should be aware of risk and have the management tools to deal with it. A number of examples were discussed. It is necessary when appointing a safety officer that he or she should have had sufficient training and the entire organisation should be risk aware and familiar with the duty of care. He explained that the NTET Code of Practice is not a legal document. However, it aspires to achieve standards of what can be expected. An Authorised Rally can be challenged if not abiding by the code, unless some other practices have been put in place, which are better. Falling short of the code is not acceptable, as safety is the cornerstone of any event.

Open Forum

The meeting concluded with an open forum where it was unanimously agreed that safety officers should receive further training at regional venues where possible.

Posted 23/10/08

Next year sees the 30th anniversary of the Steam Apprentice Club - SAC. This truly remarkable organisation will soon have been running for 30 years giving many youngsters the opportunity to learn about and drive traction engines.

As part of these celebrations the SAC will be offering for sale, a special Mamod traction engine in the livery of the SAC.

Further information on how to reserve your model will be available shortly.

Posted 22/10/08

A meeting was held on Sunday 19th October with 10 out of the 13 Independent Boiler Inspectors who appear on the NTET's Register of Independent Boiler Inspectors.

Apologies were received from Alan Prout, Ian Farrance and Martin Clark.

Chris Boocock of Rainham Industrial Services and Glyn Amphlett, Principal Engineer, Allianz Engineering (and a member of the Safety Assessment Federation, Pressure Systems Committee) acted as facilitators.

In concluding their working session with Chris and Glyn the Independent Inspectors in seeking to demonstrate their commitment to the longevity of the hobby, proposed that they form an informal association, the founding principles of which are made clear in the following announcement:

Bob Siddall, Chairman of the Engine Owners Section of the NTET warmly welcomed this initiative and stated that the NTET would support this move.

He went on to state that the NTET Code of Practice was in place and being used by a number of Inspectors and this arrangement would continue until such time as there was an agreement between the Inspectors Association and the NTET on changes to that scheme.

In the meantime any Inspector who wishes to use the NTET Scheme may do so and any owner who wishes his engine to be examined under the scheme may also request it.

Posted 21/10/08

A second means of obtaining the certificate by experience and examination.

Here are just a few suggestions of what could be included in a certificate that is based on experience and examination:

• Self declaration of experience
• Review by peers
• A mentoring scheme
• A safety test paper

The autumn edition of Steaming is now available to members.

The Chairman poses the question, What two issues have the potential to ruin our hobby? He believes the answer is a fatal accident involving an engine in the wrong hands or an explosion caused by an engine that was unfit to steam. What do you think?

The Review of the NTET Voluntary Driver Competency Scheme is published together with a response from the General Council.

Among the many interesting articles is a fascinating one by Steaming editor Roger West about a Fowler compound traction engine which was converted to a an amazing looking roller with the front rolls of approximately 6ft 6in diameter! The conversion of the traction engine to an unusual roller took place at Invercargill in the southern end of the South Island of New Zealand.

As always the magazine has an excellent mix of archive and more recent photographs of traction engines.

Posted 20/10/08

Nominations for the General Council have been received for the following:

• Colin Brown
• Stuart Gray
• Joe Black
• Adam Marriott
• Sue Doncaster

The following motions have been received:

Motion A

That in order to protect the voluntary nature of any form of Certificate of Competency (CofC) introduced by the National Traction Engine Trust (NTET) or any other organisation, a section be included in the Rally Organisers Code of Practice to the effect that a (CofC) may not be used as a condition of entry for exhibits at NTET authorised rallies. Further that a statement is introduced into the Certificate of Competency syllabus stating that the CofC is not to be used as a condition of entry by event organisers. The above will apply until mandate declares otherwise.

Proposed: Andrew Bradbury (member 12263)
Seconded: Ken Milnes (member 14691)

Motion B

That any authorised rally found to be requiring a voluntary CofC as a condition of exhibit entry has its authorisation removed.

Proposed: Andrew Bradbury (member 12263)
Seconded: Ken Milnes (member 14691)

Posted 16/10/08

A reminder that the conference will take place this coming Saturday with around 120 people already booked to attend.

If at this late stage you would like to attend this important meeting please contact Tim Holt Tel. 01524 271584

Posted 16/10/08

Proposals for a second means of obtaining the Voluntary Certificate of Competency will be presented at the forthcoming AGM at Shaftesbury by Bob Garnett. It is hoped to publish some of these proposals on this website shortly.

It is anticipated there will be a lot of input from the membership - unlike the recent review of the Voluntary Driver Competency Review when only four replies were received from the membership!!

The final opportunity for discussion on this important matter will take place at the Engine Owner's Meeting on 11th January 2009.

Posted 14/10/08

Almost 80 reports from Safety Officers of authorised rallies have yet to be received. Normally they should be submitted within 21 days of the authorised event but sadly there are many outstanding.

If you are a Safety Officer and have not submitted your report please do so as a matter of urgency!!

Reports can be submitted in the usual way or alternatively by email to: rallies@ntet.co.uk.

Posted 13/10/08

If you have a matter of concern that is relevant to steam rallies and operating traction engines please contact the appropriate Head of Section or Trust Officer (see Contacting NTET)

Alternatively you can contact the Public Relations Officer, Mike Dyson at mandm.haven@virgin.net

Posted 06/10/08

If you have a matter of concern that is relevant to steam rallies and operating traction engines please contact the appropriate Head of Section or Trust Officer (see Contacting NTET)

Alternatively you can contact the Public Relations Officer, Mike Dyson at mandm.haven@virgin.net

Posted 06/10/08

It is with much sadness that we report the passing of Esmond Kimbell who was a founder member. In his lifetime he had held many positions in the Trust. He passed away on Thursday 25th September 2008.

His funeral service will be held at Boughton Church Northants on Tuesday 7th October at 11.30am.

Posted 28/09/08

A new Act on manslaughter is being introduced. It is not yet fully understood how this might affect the Trust, if at all. However, the Trust's solicitor is looking into this important matter.

Posted 22/09/08

The General Council Meeting met on Sunday 7th September 2008 to consider the report of the Review Panel.

The Review Panel thought that the present test system was both fair and comprehensive and covered all aspects of owning, maintaining and driving a traction engine. However, it was thought that in order to achieve a satisfactory level of competency the test content should be reviewed to eliminate the unnecessary and avoid repetition and simplify where possible. At present the test is too severe and lengthy for what is required.

The competency test should concentrate on the ability of the driver to drive the engine safely and control the pressure system (boiler plus ancillary equipment).

The General Council unanimously accepted the Review Panel recommendations and conclusion.

The General Council proposed that a scheme be developed to be integrated into the existing competency scheme that enables drivers to obtain a competency certificate based on their previous knowledge, experience and proven abilities. Bob Garnett will head a team to develop the content of the scheme and it is hoped he may be able to provide some details at the AGM.

Posted 16/09/08

Since its launch in January 2007 the Boiler Inspections Audit Scheme whilst well intended has not have got off to the most successful start. At the recent Trust Council Meeting it was agreed that the Boiler Inspections Audit Scheme should be progressively re-introduced rather than through any imposed deadlines.

At the meeting with Boiler Inspectors planned for October a number of proposals will be made including significant changes to the reports forms design and their use and also changes to the underlying principles of the scheme.

The Trust hopes that by working closely with Boiler Inspectors consistent and practical standards of inspection can be applied to our hobby and that any reports subsequently generated reflect those aspirations.

Posted 11/09/08

The recommendations of the review of the Voluntary Competency Scheme were accepted by the Trust's General Council at their meeting yesterday.

In addition the General Council has agreed that a consultative document should be prepared to allow a second means of obtaining the certificate by experience and examination.

Further details are to follow.

Posted 08/09/08

Linked below are the latest versions of the Syllabus for the Examination for the NTET Traction Engine Driver Competency Certificate.

There is a second Syllabus for the Drivers of Undertype Steam Waggons.

• Syllabus for the Examination of the NTET's Voluntary Driver Competency Certificate for Traction Engines
• Syllabus for the Examination of the NTET's Voluntary Driver Competency Certificate for Undertype Waggons

These files are in Adobe Acrobat format, if you are having trouble reading them you may need to download Adobe Acrobat.

In an attempt to find a quieter place for the meeting it was moved to the Baker's Arms but unfortunately there was a lot of background noise which made it difficult for speakers to be heard.

Driver Competence Scheme

The chairman of the Trust, Robert Herring explained the NTET is to consider changes to the scheme so the assessment can take into consideration those drivers who can demonstrate their competence through relevant experience.

Several people spoke and clearly all held strong views on this thorny subject. However, there was agreement that a scheme should be in place to offset any criticisms from 'officialdom'.

Duncan Marston who described himself as "a humble miller" talked about his experience of being assessed the previous day. He said many aspects of driving a steam vehicle were common to all types of engine such maintaining steam and being able to see water in the gauge glass. He admitted in the past to being sceptical about the scheme but he felt the assessment was a fair way to judge a driver's competence.

Bob Garnett is to lead a group to investigate how experienced drivers can demonstrate their competence without a formal assessment.

What most who attended the meeting were able to agree upon was that it was important the excellent safety record held by engine drivers generally should not be broken by a very small number of inexperienced or reckless drivers!

Posted 02/09/08

Once again the NTET marquee was a focal point of this mammoth event. This was the ideal place to sit down over a cup of tea or coffee and discuss the exhibits and all things to do with traction engines.

A large group of volunteers worked hard throughout each day of the event to provide tea and coffee for all those in need of refreshment.

The art gallery featured work by well known traction engine artists Robin Wheeldon, John Hancox and John Wigston.

A special display of engines featured:

• New build Garrett 3-ton wagon one of three being built by Mark Filer
• Armstrong Whitworth 10-ton roller 10R2 owned by Mick George
• Marshall 7nhp s/c agricultural 72808 Britannia owned by Stuart Smith
• Burrell 6nhp road loco 3395 The Dalesman owned by Ted Freeman

The Conference for Rally Organisers has been arranged at the Holiday Inn, Crick (just off the M1) on Saturday 18^th October 2008.

The main business of the meeting is the launching of the updated Rally Organiser's Code of Practice. In addition there will be information and discussion about the new electrical regulations, fire prevention, risk assessment and pollution. The final part of the meeting will be a general forum for all rally organisers to raise any matters of concern.

Invitations and further details will be sent out to those who have attended past conferences and all on the Trust's Affiliated groups list. Any event organiser that involves traction engines and would like to attend the conference should contact Tim Holt, Head of the Rally Organiser's Section - Tel. 01524 271584

Posted 19/08/08

Subscriptions can be renewed in the Trust's marquee at the Great Dorset Steam Fair.

This is also an excellent opportunity for new members to join.

The annual subscription is £25.00 includes the excellent quarterly magazine Steaming which is sent free to all members every January, April, July and October. There are many other benefits to members including advantageous terms for boiler and other types of insurance cover as well as access to advice on technical matters.

Posted 18/08/08

The 2008 Annual General Meeting will take place on Saturday 15th November 2008 at the Royal Chase Hotel, Shaftesbury, Dorset.

Any member may submit a motion for discussion at the AGM. All such motions must be in writing and signed by a proposer and seconder and state their respective membership numbers. The items for discussion must reach the General Secretary no later than Saturday, 20th September 2008.

There are vacant positions on the General Council and a form of Nomination Paper is available via this link or printed on page 119 of the current edition of Steaming. Any nominations should be sent to the General Secretary no later than Saturday, 20th September 2008.

Reservations for accommodation at a special rate will be available for Trust members for the Friday and Saturday nights. A programme of interesting visits is being arranged for both Saturday and Sunday morning including Robert Coles' collection.

Further details in the next edition of Steaming.

Posted 18/08/08

Appearances are scheduled for the following events:

16th - 17th August, Lincolnshire Steam

27th - 31st August, Great Dorset Steam Fair

6th - 7th September, Haddenham Steam, Cambridgeshire

13th - 14th September, Old Warden, Bedforshire

Posted 13/08/08

An open forum has been arranged for Thursday 28^th August in the Baker's Arms marquee at 6.30pm

The location has been chosen because the background noise of generators and fairground organs near the Trust's marquee makes it difficult for speakers to be heard.

After a short introduction by the Chairman, Robert Herring any matter can be raised for discussion.

Posted 07/08/08

Applications are invited from suitably qualified persons for this important position.

Knowledge of general administration procedures is essential and the applicant must be computer literate. The duties include arranging meetings, taking and producing minutes and handling general correspondence.

A job specification giving full details of this important post is available to intending applicants (who do not necessarily have to be members of the Trust).

Please apply in the first instance to:

Robert Herring,
Glebe Court,
Fringford,
Bicester,
Oxfordshire,
OX27 8RJ

The closing date for applications is 31st August 2008.

Posted 06/08/08

Once again the Trust will have a large marquee at the Great Dorset Steam Fair which forms a natural focal point for all traction engine enthusiasts.

The Trust's Sales Stand under the leadership of Colin Brown will be providing an excellent selection of the latest road steam books, DVD's and clothing.

At the other end of the marquee refreshments are made available by a group of volunteers and most of the time at least one member of the Trust national Council or executive committee will be on hand to answer member's concerns on topics affecting engines and engine ownership.

Part of the tent will include an art gallery with display of paintings which are offered for sale by well known traction engine artists Robin Wheeldon, John Hancox and John Wigston.

Three engines of particular interest will be on display:

• Burrell 6nhp road loco 3395 The Dalesman owned by Ted Freeman
• Armstrong Whitworth 10-ton roller 10R2 owned by Mick George
• Marshall 7nhp s/c agricultural 72808 Britannia owned by Stuart Smith

Posted 04/08/08

The summer edition of Steaming is now available to members.

The 'Trust News' section has reports about the latest developments with the Boiler Inspections Audit Scheme and the Driver Competency Scheme.

Among the many interesting articles is a very well researched one by Steaming editor Roger West about the steam rollers operated by Leicester Corporation. The use of rollers has been tracked through the Minute Books of the Corporation starting with their first purchase of a 15 ton Aveling roller in 1879.

As always the magazine has an excellent mix of archive and more recent photographs of traction engines.

Posted 30/07/08

Following the Engine Owners Meeting which took place on Sunday 17 February 2008 please find linked below the Minutes of the Meeting and the slides from the Boiler Inspection Audit Scheme which was presented to the delegates:

• Boiler Inspections Audit Scheme Presentation
• Engine Owners Meeting 2008 Minutes

Following consultation and agreement with the Independent Boiler Inspectors over the weekend the TSU will ask the General Council, at its 9th March 2008 meeting, to ratify a statement relating to the extension of the introductory phase of the Boiler Inspection Audit Scheme.  The proposed statement may be viewed in PDF format by clicking here.

Posted 28/02/08

Subject to ratification by the General Council the TSU is recommending extending the introductory phase of the Boiler Inspection Audit Scheme but will consult with the Independent Boiler Inspectors before issuing a full statement.

Posted 28/02/08