Farmers Guide sadly reports the death of Bernie Biggs who was well known in the industry as the former managing director of Bexwell Tractors Ltd and for his long association with Zetor tractors.
He grew up in the fens and Mr Biggs’ great enthusiasm for work started at an early age – he had several jobs including clearing fenland for war production and working on the construction of RAF Downham Market.
He enlisted in the Royal Navy in 1943 – as soon as he was old enough – and served in the Mediterranean where he masqueraded as a Portuguese fisherman and his ship was awarded the Croix de Guerre – awarded to recognise acts of bravery in the face of the enemy – by the French government.
On his return from war he soon found a job with Norfolk Tractors – Ferguson main agents – firstly as a fitter before moving on to a successful sales and management career. When Norfolk Tractors ceased trading he had the opportunity to start his own company and Bexwell Tractors was formed.
Following early difficulties and the loss of the MF franchise Mr Biggs discovered the Zetor range. He managed to import two tractors in 1965 and after a few slow years things began to pick up following the introduction of four-wheel-drive models. From that point Mr Biggs never looked back and the Zetor brand went from strength to strength. Bexwells core sales were to small farmers in the fens, supplying a wide range of machinery, including combines. In the late 1970’s Mr Biggs became the first Fendt dealer in East Anglia, selling to many large farms in Norfolk and beyond. He was also known for being one of the original importers of Steyr tractors and for his involvement with Dutra and Belarus tractors.
During Bexwell’s halcyon days it was selling about 400 tractors a year. Mr Biggs was a familiar face at the Royal Norfolk Show, East of England Show and the Tractor Trials at Long Sutton plus many more. Many people will remember Bernie Biggs for his dedication and hard work in establishing and running his business and it was his likeable character that helped him achieve such great success in the agricultural machinery industry. He worked hard into the later stages of his life and his enthusiasm and belief for the industry continued as he resurrected the Norfolk Tractors name to start a new business with his grandsons.
He is survived by his wife, children, grandchildren and first great grandchild and will be greatly missed by everyone who knew him.
