The name of Neil Ross was known in Elgin from at least 1942 when it appears to be first recorded in the Scottish agricultural press. The business was an engineering business, a motor engineer, as well as tractor and implement dealers and distributors.
In 1947 the business was re-arranging its business to provide a better service to customers. While based in Bridge Street, Ellon, it acquired premises in Greyfriars Street which had formerly been Souter’s Garage. By 1955 it was trading out of Commercial Road Ellon. It was to open other premises. In 1955 it was also recorded at Station Road, Laurencekirk. In 1969 it was at Don Street, Forfar.
The business saw the opening of its premises in Greyfriars Street as an important development in providing a better service to its customers. Let’s see how it announced the opening of these premises in an advert that it placed in the Aberdeen press and journal of 19 November 1947
“Announcement
Of special interest to farmers & contractors throughout Banff, Moray and Nairn
Neil Ross, Nor’-East Tractor and Implement Works, Ellon, takes this opportunity to thank his many customers in the Banff, Moray and Nairn area for their valued support, and begs to announce that, with a view to offering a more convenient and better repairs and spares service, he has now completed alterations and plant installations at the recently acquired premises in Greyfriars Street, Elgin (previously known at Souter’s Garage).
A specially skilled staff of tractor and implement mechanics have been employed which, under the guidance of a conscientious foreman, will give the work entrusted to them their earnest and skilled attention.
All makes of tractors repaired
The accommodation for stocking spares and supplies is extensive and these are now being stored and recorded on the latest card index system.
Workshop van and lorry transport available at shortest notice
Every farmer is connected to this efficient repairs and spares service by Telephone Elgin no. 7314.
Old and new customers alike are cordially invited to utilise this service.
No demand too big-none too small
Our custome is to us the most important person.
Official opening date, 1st December, 1947.
Main agent for the North-East: David Brown, Allis Chalmers, Oliver, John Deere, Caterpillar, Cletrac, Bristol and Anzani tractors. Also agent for most other makes.
Agent for all the best agricultural implements.
Note address-
Nor’-East Tractor Works, 3-9 Greyfriars Street, Elgin
Proprietor” Neil Ross
Branch manager: James M. Robertson”
The photographs were taken at the Deeside rally, August 2017.
