Bremner Farms Congratulates the winner of the New Holland Inspection Event Sweepstakes

Originally From: The Miramichi Leader
By: Nathan Rochford

MIRAMICHI - It's been weeks since Douglas Irving found out he was the grand prize winner in New Holland's national sweepstakes draw, but as of Thursday the 20-year-old vegetable farmer was finally able to see what he'd won.

Irving won a new 2009 Ford F-150 by entering his name in a ballot after buying a tractor from New Holland.

Standing outside the New Holland dealership on South Napan Road, Irving could barely contain his smile. The truck, a deep navy blue colour, was the focus of his attention.

Oh my God," he said. "It's quite a prize."

Irving, whose family are third generation New Holland customers, said he's never won anything quite like it.

"I've never won anything before in my life," he said. "This is the first big prize. I couldn't believe the phone call when we received it."

In fact, Irving said he initially thought the phone call from New Holland saying he'd won was just another scam. He's a little more convinced now.

The truck will be a welcome addition to Irving's family and will likely replace his current vehicle, but not before he's had a chance to show it off first. Irving said he has a lot of friends who have been waiting to see the truck up close.

"I have my own vehicle," he said. "But I can certainly use this. I'm just going to leave it (in the driveway) for a while so people can come and look at it."

As for Thursday, his only plans for the truck was to take it home and spend some time getting used to it.

"I'll probably just take it home and check it out," he explained. "Just sit in it."

New Holland dealer Leon Bremner was thrilled to have Irving out at the dealership Thursday and pulled together an extensive little party for the unveiling of the prize.

Sandwiches, a shrimp tray, coffee and a variety of other foods and drinks were made available to everyone in attendance.

"We have never had a major winner before," Bremner said, excitedly. "This is a treat. We're all proud."

The contest, called the New Holland Inspection Event Sweepstakes, was open to farmers 18 or older. The truck Irving won is valued at $17,900, but under contest rules he will be required to pay any applicable taxes on the prize.