FOR collectors of classic toys it is almost an essential that the best items should come with their original boxes.

But vintage tractor buff Peter Dean has turned that idea on its head - by creating an original "display box" for his prized Massey Harris 744.

For Peter, from Galphay near Ripon, has made a full-size version of the Dinky toy right down to the colour of the packaging.

The size of a single domestic garage, the display box is made from wood and painted in the same style as the original Dinky version owned by fellow enthusiast - and the man behind the idea - Maurice Craven.

A second such display box has been made for another collector’s piece - an orange Field-Marshall Model Series IIIa, dating from 1953.

"People will think we’re mad for trying to do this, but with 2009 being the 75th anniversary of Dinky Toys, there has never been a better time to recreate the Dinky model at actual size," said Maurice.

"Really we have just done the reverse of what Dinky are famous for.

"They take a full size vehicle, miniaturise it and put it in a box. We've taken a miniature box, increased its scale and put it around a working vintage tractor."

The not-so-dinky tractors will be revealed to the public on June 6 and 7 at the Yorkshire Vintage Association Show at Newby Hall, near Ripon.

Organisers are expecting up to 1,000 vintage farm vehicles, engines and machinery, making the show the largest of its kind in the country.

The event runs from 10.30am to 5m. Tickets are £8 for adults, £7 concessions and £6.50 for children. Family tickets are also available.

For more information contact Newby Hall on 01423-322583 or visit www.newbyhall.co.uk