Simon Baynes MP visited Tony Seddon, the owner and operator of vintage road steam engines and part of the National Traction Engine Trust (NTET), at his home near Bronington in Clwyd South on Friday 24th March.
Taking the opportunity to learn more about the fascinating world of vintage road steam engines, Mr Baynes was pleased to meet Mr Seddon and his colleague, and experience the working of two magnificent road steam engines first-hand. Mr Seddon is Head of the Technical Services Unit at the NTET, and this renowned organisation is dedicated to the preservation of road steam engines and is recognised worldwide as the premier organisation in this field.
Simon Baynes MP had the chance to meet with another key member of the NTET team, Tom Attwood who is the Coal Trials Co-ordinator for NTET, and NTET Member, Bill Lowe. This provided him with a valuable insight into the work of the organisation, the issues they face with regard to fuels for the engines and its ongoing commitment to preserving the heritage of steam traction engines for future generations. The work of Tony Seddon and his colleagues is vital in achieving this goal.
Tony Seddon commented:
“I am delighted in the interest shown by Simon. He clearly grasps the issues NTET, its members and the wider steam community face and his assistance with these issues will be crucial. With the reduction of coal mining in the UK and overseas, NTET is working hard to find other sources of fuel for the historic engines, and we need to ensure that the significant financial contribution that the they make to the economy, the support for charities and the wellbeing benefits they bring to the UK public continue for many years to come. NTET looks forward to Simon’s support and we thank him for taking the time to help us.”
Speaking about his visit, Simon Baynes MP said:
“I was truly amazed by the level of expertise and dedication displayed by the NTET team in preserving these historic machines. It was an absolute pleasure to meet Tony Seddon, Tom Attwood and Bill Lowe and to learn about Tony and Tom’s work at the National Traction Engine Trust – it was a fascinating experience that has allowed me to gain a true appreciation for the history and significance of these magnificent machines.”
