'Blown away by support' -- annual Wolds Tractor Run could be biggest and best yet
Organisers say they have been “blown away by the support” for one of the most popular events on the Louth farming community’s calendar.
The annual Lincolnshire Wolds Tractor Run, which raises money for the Marie Curie charity, is all set to roll again, wending its way from the village of Ludborough, on Sunday, June 7.
But not only is the run set to feature dozens of tractors, many of them dressed up and decorated, it will also be marked by a bumper raffle, for which a sparkling line-up of prizes has been donated by local firms.
The event’s Facebook page says: “We have been blown away by the support we have had this year.
“We have had some absolutely amazing prizes donated. We cannot thank enough all of the businesses that have supported us.
“Raffle tickets are £1 each and selling fast! Please get in touch if you’d like some. There will be a limited amount available on the day.”
The plethora of prizes ranges from two-night stays at holiday venues and two tickets to a theatre performance to money-off vouchers, a cheese hamper, tickets to a fireworks display, a breakfast bundle and even a bungee jump.
The tractor run, which has been sponsored by a host of Lincolnshire businesses, is now in its 18th year and has generated thousands of pounds for Marie Curie, which provides end-of-life care for people with a terminal illness.
A spokesperson said: “We are hoping to make this the biggest and best run yet. And to celebrate the event’s 18th birthday, we are asking all drivers to decorate their vehicles and trailers, and even themselves, to make the run extra special.
"As we are supporting Marie Curie, the theme is anything yellow but make it party-worthy! Celebrate in style with daffodils, bunting or face-paints.
"The choice is yours, and there will be prizes for the best dressed tractor, trailer and driver."
All the tractors taking part in the run should report to Caudwell’s Yard in Ludborough (DN36 5SG) from 7 am to be registered for a prompt 10 am start.
Drivers and supporters can tuck into bacon and sausage butties, courtesy of Paula's Baps, of Mablethorpe, before setting off on the route, which takes in various places across the Wolds.
A stop-off will be held at Hall Farm in the village of Stainton le Vale, where an Open Farm Sunday event is being held, complete with an appearance by Peter Rabbit!
Open Farm Sunday is a national event, run by the LEAF (Linking Environment and Farming) charity in which farms across the country open their gates to the public, offering demonstrations, displays and activities.
At the farm and along the route, spectators will get the chance to admire the tractors and cheer them on.
From Stainton le Vale, the run will return to Caudwell’s Yard, arriving from about 4 pm.
The event was launched in 2007 by Paula Bruntlett and her husband, Gordon, who was a fitter at Caudwell’s.
Since Gordon died from a terminal illness nine years ago, Paula and farmworker Pete Cook have continued to organise the tractor run in his memory, with help from Pete’s daughter, Megan Hammond.
Pete said it is important to inspire future tractor enthusiasts so that the event will continue for generations to come.
He added: “We’re trying to encourage more families to come to the start line this year, so that children become more involved as they grow up. It’s always so good to see people interacting at the event.”
It costs £15 to enter a tractor, with no charge for passengers. Vehicles must be fully insured and in a roadworthy condition. Each paid entry will receive a free hog-roast bun at Stainton le Vale.
This year, bookings have been opened up to allow for Series 1, 2 and 3 Land Rovers to join the run, as long as the vehicle was registered by the year 2000.