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Christmas tractor parade visits Goudhurst, Cranbrook, Staplehurst and Marden

By: Cara Simmonds csimmonds@thekmgroup.co.uk

Published: 16:01, 21 December 2022

Updated: 09:24, 22 December 2022

Villagers were treated to a festive parade with a difference when tractors decked with fairylights streamed through the streets.

The Weald of Kent Young Farmers' Club (YFC) held its first annual "Light It Up" tractor run, travelling through Goudhurst, Cranbrook, Staplehurst and Marden.

People were entertained by a convoy of around 30 tractors and a lorry, all adorned with colourful lights, tinsel and festive inflatable decorations on Sunday.

It was organised by Claire Eckley, with support from the Weald of Kent YFC team, and has so far raised more than £5,500 for the Kent, Surrey, Sussex Air Ambulance Charity and club funds.

She commented: “It was such a joy to see so many people support our festive young farmers tractor run and on behalf of the club I would like to thank everyone for their generous donations, particularly at this time of year.

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“The air ambulance are a real lifeline, not just for farmers, but for the whole rural community in a time of crisis.

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"Some of the money raised will also be put towards the running of the club, which provides our 10 to 28 year old members with opportunities to develop skills, work with the local community, participate in competitions and enjoy a dynamic social life.”

People were updated live on Facebook when and where the convoy would be going past.

Trina Jones said: "Fantastic! Combining community and festive spirit and all for a great cause, well done."

A festive tractor run was held last Sunday. Picture: Weald of Kent Young Farmers
Around 30 tractors took to the roads. Picture: Weald of Kent Young Farmers

Sarah Weller added: "It was amazing, thank you all."

The club said: "Our tractor run is complete and everyone made it and we were pretty much on time! Yay!

"Thanks so much for turning up with your wonderful tractors, and to the bucketeers, stewards, marshals, traffic managers, and everyone who came out to give us a wave.

"We could not have done this event without the teams from Lower Ladysden Farm and Osmonds Transport and Planing Ltd."

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A 1989 Fendt 309LSA, the oldest tractor, was decorated and driven by the youngest driver, 16-year-old Angus Seymour.

So far they have raised more than £5,500 for charity. Picture: Weald of Kent Young Farmers
Awards were given out for the best dressed tractor. Picture: Weald of Kent Young Farmers

The biggest tractor, a Claas Axion 960 Terra Trac at 450bhp, was driven by fruit and arable farmer Richard Budd from Stevens Farm, Hawkhurst.

Best dressed tractor was won by Richard Budd, and was awarded dinner for two at the Star & Eagle in Goudhurst.

A second competition for Weald of Kent YFC members, with a prize provided by specialist fruit and vine machinery dealers N P Seymour Ltd, was won by Dan Goodman.

To donate to their JustGiving page, click here.

So far they have raised £3,815 online, with an additional £1,200 collected in donation buckets on the night.

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