A society set up to honour Sandbach's most famous employer celebrated its 30th anniversary year in style, with an open day event.

And the occasion was a huge success, with people travelling from all over the country to see the world famous Foden trucks.

Elworth Cricket Club, which itself has links with the Foden empire, was the venue for yesterday's (Sunday) event.

Foden trucks from the oldest from 1950s to the newest, a 2006 vehicle, lined up in the car park at the club.

And a special tour was arranged around Elworth highlighting where the company's former premises and other points of interest were based. 

Nathan Shore, chairman of the Foden Society, said he was delighted with the success of the event.

"We've got more than 500 members now from all over the world including Australia and New Zealand.

"It was great for former Foden employees too to come and meet up."

Among the vehicles on display was a restored Foden brake testing lorry dating back to 1958.

Elliot and Andrew Shorrock (left) with Foden Society chairman, Nathan Shore, and the 64-year-old brake testing truck

The vehicle, owned by father and son Elliot and Andrew Shorrock, is now based near Warrington.

The Shorrocks spent around three-and-a-half years restoring the vehicle, thought to be the only one in the world.

The vehicle was found in a farm building and is now displayed at steam rallies all over the country.

Foden memorabilia collector, John Sanderson from Smallwood near Sandbach, has a range of Foden items, including a sign which used to be on the gates to the company. 

John Sanderson with the Foden gate sign

Former Foden employees, Lynn Taylor from Wheelock who worked in the buying office and Janice Bickerton from Elworth who worked in the cost office, were among those attending the event.

The sign on the gates of Foden in Elworth

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