Weston College has joined forces with Noah’s Ark amid their 25th anniversary celebrations to restore a favourite vintage tractor loved by members and visitors of Noah’s Ark. The historic vehicle, donated to the original founders of the zoo by the local Nailsea community visibly positioned by the zoo’s ticket offices, has been a family favourite for years. Thanks to the dedicated efforts of Weston College staff, it has now received a much-needed transformation.
The collaboration came out of a recent community and business networking event at the zoo, where local leaders gathered to hear about Noah’s Ark’s 25th celebrations, as well its new vision and strategy. Weston College's team took on this project as part of their staff wellbeing and community day activities. The project involved a thorough industrial power wash, extensive sanding, and the application of fresh paint. The seat was resecured with new bolts, the bonnet was stabilised to ensure safety for children climbing on it, and a replacement dashboard complete with a new speedometer was installed. The tractor’s bonnet and wheel arches were painted in vibrant red, while the engine, components, and outer rims were given the classic Massey grey.
Larry Bush, Zoo Director, commented “This tractor has been a cherished part of our zoo's history. Seeing it restored with such care and enthusiasm is fantastic. The timing has been perfect to mark our 25th anniversary, as part of this new chapter we are continuing to make improvements that returning visitors will be able to benefit from. It will continue to be a favourite photo spot for our visitors, creating memories for years to come.”
For Weston College, the project was part team-building exercise, and a mindful activity to promote staff wellbeing. Richard Hanney, Head of Construction, expressed his enthusiasm about the project, "When I saw this opportunity, I jumped at the chance to work with Noah's Ark and support the incredible work they do.”
Hanney continued, “My daughter has enjoyed sitting on that tractor many times, and I'm thrilled that our team could give it a well-deserved makeover—not just for her, but for all the children who visit the park. It's a wonderful photo opportunity to remember those days when your child wanted to climb on a tractor and get lost in their imagination."
In another tribute, the team at Weston College nicknamed the tractor "Gilbert" in honour of a late colleague who was a dedicated farmer and well-loved member of the community. This gesture adds another layer of meaning to the project, celebrating the legacy of both the tractor and the popular colleague at the college.
The revitalised tractor, now standing proudly at Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm, is set to be one of the centrepieces of the zoo’s 25th anniversary celebrations – the park is marking its quarter century milestone this summer. This project underscores the zoo’s ongoing commitment to community partnerships and the wellbeing of its supporters, as it enters at exciting new phase of its journey.
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