Cumnock-based haulier T. French & Son has proudly added a unique vehicle to its fleet – a restored, steam-powered 1928 Foden C-type, affectionately known as ‘Merlin’. This historic vehicle pays tribute to British engineering excellence and the firm’s deep-rooted heritage in agriculture and coal haulage.
The family business, established in 1967, initially served Scottish farmers before branching into coal transport. The addition of Merlin celebrates this legacy while showcasing BFGoodrich Silvertown Vintage Tyres, fitted on 40x8 16-ply pneumatic tyres, which replaced the Foden’s original solid steel wheels.
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“Merlin would originally have had solid steel wheels with a rubber bond providing road grip. However, a previous restoration added pneumatic tyres. When we took ownership, we knew from firsthand experience that BFGoodrich were the only tyres for the job. It’s an excellent product.”
Tom French Junior, Director at T. French & Son
Merlin has an illustrious history that spans continents. Originally designed as a left-hand drive, six-wheeled tar sprayer, the Foden was exported to Trinidad and worked for Trinidad Lake Asphalt, a mining company. Over time, Merlin made its way back to the UK and became part of the Saunders Steam Collection.
Unfortunately, the vehicle faced an uncertain future when it was scrapped, and its boiler was sold off for soil sterilising. However, Merlin was saved by Russell Kingan of Dumfries, who reconstructed it using original Foden parts. Later, in 1988, it was acquired by Vincent Allen of County Durham, who undertook a full restoration, ensuring its place in history.
The Foden's new lease of life has continued to captivate enthusiasts, particularly during its appearances at vintage rallies. After a further renovation, including the fitting of a new firebox and front tube plate in 2006, Merlin was sold to the late Bruce Nicol in 2008. Following Nicol’s passing in 2023, his collection, including Merlin, went up for auction, where it was acquired by the French family.
The French family has a long-standing passion for vintage vehicles, making Merlin a natural addition to their extensive collection. Tom French Senior has amassed a variety of classic machines over the last 30 years, including Massey Ferguson agricultural tractors, a 1958 Bedford F type, and a 1969 Albion Reiver.
“We have an extensive collection of agricultural tractors and vintage trucks, so Merlin will feel right at home here,” explains Tom French Junior. Alongside these historical treasures, the company also operates a modern fleet of Volvo and Renault agri-bulk tippers, which serve customers in sectors like animal feed, agriculture, and food and drink.
What makes Merlin truly unique is its steam-powered engine, producing a modest 4hp with a three-speed chain drive. Road-legal and often showcased at events, Merlin stands as a tribute to the innovations of early British engineering. The combination of classic craftsmanship and modern updates, including the superior BFGoodrich tyres, ensures that Merlin continues to make an impression wherever it goes.
For T. French & Son, adding Merlin to their fleet represents both a celebration of their company’s history and a nod to the ingenuity of past engineering feats.
