1901 Allchin 10-ton road roller makes long-awaited debut

We report on the long-awaited debut of Richard Poole’s 1901 Allchin 10-ton road roller, following its extensive restoration.

Thanks to Allen Eaton’s efforts, the famous Hollowell Rally, which he created in the first place, was back on the calendar and held over the first weekend in July, to raise £1,000s for local, Northamptonshire charities.

Undoubtedly the star was the long-awaited debut of Richard Poole’s superb restoration of 1901 Allchin 10-ton road roller, NH3417. The single-cylinder engine (No. 1187) was No. 2 in the Northampton Corporation’s fleet before ending up with G Mabbutt & Sons, who rallied it extensively for many years. 

Richard has carried out the major boiler work himself, and has authentically painted the engine in the correct livery as it would have been when new. It was certainly the star at the show which included the last appearance before a 10-year overhaul of 1900 Allchin No.1131 Northampton. This four-shaft engine was No. 1 in Northampton Corporation’s fleet, which used both engines well into the 1950s. All-in-all, this event went very well and was hugely popular with the visiting public. Congratulations to everyone involved.

This report comes from the latest issue of Old Glory, and you can get a money-saving subscription to this magazine simply by clicking HERE