Tractor run through West Suffolk raises £290 for St Nicholas Hospice Care

A procession of tractors took to the roads to raise funds for St Nicholas Hospice Care.

The 30-mile run, which took place on July 1, included 26 tractors from the Farm Machinery Preservation Society (FMPS) Rally held at Long Melford Hall and this year raised £290 for St Nicholas Hospice Care.

The run was initially the idea of Tom Hunt, of Barrow, whose cousin died at the hospice more than 20-years-ago.

“My cousin was cared for by the hospice so we know how important it is and how much it is needed. This is our way of helping such an important place. The care she received was so good that we always said if there was a way to raise funds then we would,” said Tom.

Alongside his wife Bev and with the support of the Farm Machinery Preservation, Tom has been organising the tractor run for around ten years with the occasion raising a total of £8,000 for the charity which cares for those with long-term and life-threatening illnesses.

Tom said: “The road run is always a lot of fun and this year was no different. The support we get is great. With a top speed of about 12mph we set off at 5pm so as not to disrupt the traffic and then we are finished by 8.30pm. We must look quite a picture on the road.”

After setting off from Long Melford the circular route takes the drivers through Borley, Bulmer, Belchamp St Paul and Wickham St Paul.

Miranda McCoy, St Nicholas Hospice Care community fundraiser, said: “We are so grateful to Tom, Bev and all of those who joined the Farm Machinery Preservation Society’s Tractor Road Run to raise funds for our charity. Their loyal support is so appreciated, ten years is a long time to support a charity and we are so pleased Tom and Bev have chosen to help us.”

You can find out more about the charity at www.stnicholashospicecare.org.uk

Pictured are Tom and Bev Hunt alongside St Nicholas Hospice Care community fundraiser Miranda McCoy.