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Simple and functional - still works!

Many of the vintage exhibits demonstrate remarkable design simplicity in comparison to the high tech machinery we take for granted today. The ultimate usefulness of plain functional design however is proven in the fact that so many are still operational after the test of time. Although it may take a bit of tinkering and head-scratching to coax old engines to live and breathe again, they still do what they were built to do, in some cases a century ago!

A lovingly restored Foden Lorry E.R. Foden's truck history goes back to 1898 when he designed the first steam wagon (on steel tyre wheels) which had a very successful run up until 1913. Despite the economic strife of the '30s. E.R. Foden made a comeback and formed a company that flourished as many others fell casualty. With the help of his son Dennis and two former colleagues, E.R.Foden designed and built the very first E.R.F diesel lorry. The company was effectively three men and a boy. Late in 1933 the 'E.R.Foden & Son Diesel' made its debut at the Olympia motor show. This beautifully decorated lorry 'Rathfriland Rose' is of '60s design and exhibits a great degree of class and luxury for a commercial vehicle.

An Ariel Square-Four Sidecar outfit

First seen in 1930, the Ariel "Square Four" was among the first patented masterpieces of Edward Turner (of Triumph fame). Although 4 cylinder motorcycle engines had been around for some 25 years in various configurations this was the first - and only - motorcycle to have four cylinders arranged vertically forming a square. This gave superior balance and almost zero vibration. Motorcyclists of the '30s loved this versatile bike and often attached sidecars to them to use as their only form of transport all year long.