The sixth Annual East Riding YFC Charity Tractor Road Run held on Sunday 2nd June has been hailed as ‘their best ever’. For the first time ever over 100 tractors took to the roads in glorious sunshine in an effort to raise funds for Yorkshire Air Ambulance & R.A.B.I. (Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution). Their efforts certainly paid off as the money raised currently stands at over £1920 which will be split between the two charities.
On Sunday morning the tractors assembled at Laburnum Farm, Etton near Beverley to set off on their 30 mile route. Tractors and drivers came from all parts of the East Riding including Driffield, Preston, Bridlington and Holme on Spalding Moor. Some travelled from further afield to take part in the sixth Annual Event.
Jenny Sleight, who helped to organise the event on behalf of East Riding YFC said “I love the fact that such a wide age range of people can share the same hobby. It is amazing to see such a wide range of tractors in all shapes and sizes!” Jenny showed gratitude to all who had helped with the event. “I would like to thank all the drivers, marshals and collectors for their support on the day, without them it would not be possible to hold the event.”
The run was led by John Sleight and as the tractors weaved their way round the country lanes they took in a number of villages and the tractors were greeted enthusiastically by people who had turned out to see them and support the charities. John said “I was really pleased that so many people turned out to see us. A lot of people really made an effort and it is always great to see so many people lining the roads in support and greeting us with a friendly wave.”
This year saw a number of repeat entrants who came back to support the run, they were also joined by a number of newcomers to the Road Run circuit taking part in their first ever Tractor Road Run. Gary Newborn, landlord at The Light Dragoon Inn, Etton took part in his first ever road run on John Sleight’s Nuffield 10/60 and thoroughly enjoyed the day. The Light Dragoon Inn provided refreshments for all the participants at the end of the run, Gary said “I’ve had such a great day and it’s my way of supporting the charities”. The organisers have paid tribute to such great local support as they see it as a key to their success.
Jenny went on to say “As we approached villages this year we blasted out The Wurzels over the loud speakers to announce the tractors’ arrival – this was very well received”. “The current total means we have now exceeded every other years total and raised over £8500 in the six years we have hosted the event – it really does make all the hard work worthwhile!” she added.
