A VINTAGE tractor run through the stunning countryside of Teesdale and Weardale has raised more £1,000 for a national charity.

The event, held last month, attracted 63 vintage tractor owners, and boosted the coffers of the British Heart Foundation by £1,214.

The tractors followed a circular route from North Bitchburn, travelling through Billy Row, Wolsingham, Hamsterley Forest, Witton-le-Wear and High Grange Bank, back to the start.

Organisers William and Sheila Morley, farmers at North Bitchburn, were thrilled with the success of the event. They were especially pleased as they had tried to run a similar event two years ago, but had to cancel because of the foot-and-mouth outbreak.

Mrs Morley said: "We have now collected the money in and would like to thank all those people who supported the event and bought raffle tickets, and managers at Hamsterley Forest who allowed us to drive through.

"We started organising in January. It was a lot of work but well worth it in the end."

The oldest driver to take part was Stan Sharpe, 72, from Esh Winning, near Durham, with his Fordson Major. He said: "I thoroughly enjoyed the day and I'm looking forward to the next one."