Certain machines garner a reputation for reliability, and Takeuchi certainly has its fans - indeed,  many superannuated Takeuchi excavators are still providing a decent day's service. Now, as part of its 25-year UK celebrations, the company is looking to hunt down the oldest working Takeuchi in the UK and Ireland.

Takeuchi UK would like to find those owners who are stll getting the best from their old machines. The models to look out for include: TB15, TB007, TB015, TB020, TB035, TB045 and TB15FR, all from the 0-Series. These compact minis were the first to bear the Takeuchi branding and distinctive red styling.

Tool and plant hire companies were among the first to adopt the Takeuchi brand in the 1990s, so it is entirely possible that a hire company might well still have one in the fleet. Or a jobbing builder might have bought an old hire machine at auction, or from a local hire firm.

Whatever the vintage of your Takeuchi, the company is keen hear about it. Simply visit the website to upload your picture of your old Takeuchi. In fact the website is worth a butcher's even if you don't own a vintage Takeuchi, if only to gawp at some great old machinery.