TAVISTOCK'S much-loved elderly steam roller 'Stumbles' is back on the road after an 18-month refit — with a lot of help from young apprentices.

The roller, owned and preserved by the Robey Trust, will make its first public reappearance at the Tavistock Steam Fair on Sunday, June 4.

Trust spokesman John Hobbs said the work done by its volunteer labour force had 'saved several thousand pounds' — allowing the trust's limited resources to be directed at funding several hundred pounds of parts.

He said he was particularly pleased that a number of youngsters had been involved in the refit — which has included a complete refurbishment of all the engine's working parts.

'The beauty of the Stumbles refit is that we have been able to work with the youngsters and that has been a significant factor,' said Mr Hobbs.

'These youngsters are learning and all credit to them for their interest in working with the trust. It really is a community project.'

Under the guidance of trust chairman David Davies and the trust's engineer William Friend, Norman Emmett of Horrabridge has managed the work on the steamroller.

Mr Emmett has been helped by the trust's young apprentices — including David Johnson, Ian and Neil Morris, Edward and William Turner and Nick Score.

'I'm very proud of them. They have been a pleasure to work with and I'm most grateful to them for their enthusiastic support,' he said.

The completion of the refit means 'Stumbles' will be back on the road for the next 10 years. When she appears at the Tavistock Steam Fair it is hoped 'Stumbles' will be joined by other visiting Robey-built engines visiting the town for the first time.

Mr Hobbs said the next major project is the refit of the trust's Tri-tandem — 'Stumbles' big sister'.

'After being running for 10 years she will have a boiler inspection and a mechanical refit which will take 18 months,' he said.

There was still plenty of work to be done on the Robey Trust's other engines — including a substantial diesel engine and a small steam engine.

The Robey Trust always welcomes youngsters who are willing to learn about steam rollers and become involved and is always keen to encourage adults with engineering experience. For more details phone John Hobbs on (01822) 615519.