A FARMER whose family have worked land on the North York Moors for more than a century is preparing to auction machinery collected by four generations.

John Wheldon, of Esk House Farm, Farndale, is selling more than 150 pieces of machinery.

He said that his only regret was that his father did not live long enough to see them auctioned off.

"We were going to hold the auction last year, but we cancelled it because of the foot and mouth crisis," said the 49-year-old.

"My father died of cancer last Christmas which is a shame because he'd have liked to have seen it all go."

The machinery is expected to attract interest from specialist collectors.

The auction takes place at the farm on Saturday.

Viewing starts at 9am with bidding commencing at 11.30am.