More than 70 tractors turned out for a festive charity run through Teesdale villages on Friday, raising £3,000 for good causes.
The community came together to see the spectacular Farmer Christmas parade, which lined up at Tilesheds Farm, Woodland, before heading out on a short route around Woodland, Wham, Butterknowle and Copley.
The run finished back at Butterknowle village hall for food, and an after party. First prize for best tractor in show went to a Massey Ferguson 6150 dedicated to Thomas Brown, a motocross rider from Teesdale who died in a crash in 2017. Second prize went to Nigel Fletcher and third to Matthew Wilson. A vintage Massey Ferguson 135 from David Armstrong – the smallest and one of the oldest tractors taking part – won a special community award.
The annual tractor parade at Woodland in County Durham. Photograph: Stuart Boulton
Proceeds will be split between Teesdale Mountain Rescue, the Great North Air Ambulance Service, Woodland Primary School and Woodland Youth Club. A donation has also been made to the sensory room at Evergreen Primary School in Bishop Auckland.
The annual tractor parade at Woodland in County Durham. Photograph: Stuart Boulton
Organiser Becky Teasdale said drivers brought their tractors from far and wide to take part in the event, which has grown hugely from the 20 vehicles which took part in the first run last year.
The annual tractor parade at Woodland in County Durham. Photograph: Stuart Boulton
"They came out for the causes we support," she said. "We were really proud that so many people took part – people from farming backgrounds and non-farming backgrounds. We're really grateful to each and every one of them, as well as our generous sponsors."
Sponsors were Samantha Brown, Michael Wood, Knights Pharmacy, Vinnie's Electrical, Victoria Garth, Primetech UK and John and Lisa, of Southside.
The annual tractor parade at Woodland in County Durham. Photograph: Stuart Boulton
The annual tractor parade at Woodland in County Durham. Photograph: Stuart Boulton
The annual tractor parade at Woodland in County Durham. Photograph: Stuart Boulton
The annual tractor parade at Woodland in County Durham. Photograph: Stuart Boulton
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