A Swindon teenager has been turning heads in the town centre this week after celebrating a newly earned tractor licence in an unusual way — by driving a vintage tractor through the heart of town.
Hugh, 16, a student at UTC Swindon, took his 1956 Fordson Major out for a celebratory journey after qualifying to drive agricultural vehicles. The sight of the classic tractor rolling through Swindon’s streets drew smiles, double takes and plenty of phone cameras.
For Hugh, the moment marked more than just passing a test. It represents another step towards his long-term ambition of becoming an agricultural engineer, a career path he plans to follow once he completes his GCSEs later this summer.
His passion for machinery started close to home, restoring classic cars alongside his father. However, it was a visit to the Wiltshire Agricultural Preservation Group steam rally in 2022 that sparked a deeper interest in tractors.
After being invited to take a vintage tractor around the arena, Hugh was hooked. Not long afterwards, he bought his first tractor — a 1947 Ferguson TE20. His collection has since grown to six historic machines, all restored and maintained by Hugh himself.
“Everyone thinks I’m mad,” he said. “But I really love working on the old machines, getting them running again, and rummaging around at steam fairs looking for old parts and tools.”
Alongside his hands-on experience, Hugh has been building his technical knowledge at UTC Swindon, where he studies engineering and metalwork. The practical skills he has picked up at school are already proving valuable as he prepares for the next stage of his career.
He has recently applied for apprenticeships with several agricultural engineering firms, including Chandlers Farm Equipment and TH Whites. A previous work placement with Chandlers saw him helping to repair farm machinery on-site, an experience that strengthened his determination to work in the sector.
Sarah Crookes, Head of Engineering at UTC Swindon, said Hugh’s commitment stands out.
“Hugh’s passion for engineering really shines through,” she said. “He’s taken every opportunity to learn and work with engineering companies while studying with us. While we don’t usually allow farm machinery to park at school, we felt this was a special case.”
UTC Swindon says Hugh’s story reflects the opportunities available to young people with a passion for STEM subjects. Applications are currently open for both the school and Sixth Form, with the final open event of the year taking place on 29 January.
More information is available via the UTC Swindon website.
