Manitou caught the attention of many with this meticulously restored MB 20 series rough terrain forklift truck (RTFLT) from the 1970s centre-stage on its stand.

This format created the ‘farm handler’ category that subsequently evolved into today’s telescopic handler.

In the 1950s, Manitou initially took a standard tractor, placed a mast on the back, and reversed the driving position.

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By the early 1970s the MB series, shown here, could lift a 2t pallet to 3.6m and had the traction and pushing power to handle buckets, forks and a range of attachments.

But the origins of the skid-unit were still clearly visible under the drivers seat, with dashboard and instruments of the International tractor still in place in its original position.