Tractor Run raises around £20,000

Annual fairy lit farming convoy doubles amount raised last year

Friday’s Tractor Run not only delivered some much needed Festive cheer to local people, it also delivered a massive donation to the Katharine House Hospice.   So far around £20,000 has been raised – twice the amount raised last year.

Organiser Jennie Steenkamp from RC Baker Ltd said: “It’s absolutely staggering.   Last year we raised £10,000 and this year, given the current circumstances, I didn’t think we would raise anywhere near that figure.

“I checked the Just Giving page when we had just got back and we had already beaten last year, which I was blown away by.

“Then I had a call from Laura at Katharine House later that evening and she said we were up to £14,000.   I just burst into tears.   I couldn’t believe it. The total has just being going up and up since then.”

The newly extended Tractor Run route provided additional viewing points for people Many took advantage of spots in the laybys along the B4100 between Adderbury and Aynho.   Lots of other people also viewed from positions within the villages.

Jennie said: “The support for it is unbelievable.   Its really cheered people up this Christmas which is what was needed”.

This year’s convoy included just under 100 tractors.   Jennie praised all those from the farming community who had spent time decorating their tractors and joined in.   She also thanked Thames Valley Police for supporting the event and Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue who provided a fire engine to lead the convoy, blasting out festive music.

Jennie said: “We’re just so grateful for all the support from the drivers, the volunteers, my family and the business and everyone who’s involved there, who helped pull this off”.

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Published: 21/12/2020 11:17am by Banbury FM Newsteam

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