Fenland Farmers festive tractor run 2022 is hailed a success

The community braced the icy conditions and lined the streets to admire the farm vehicles, with many adorned in lights and decorations.  

One even transported Father Christmas and his sleigh along the route which went through Doddington, Benwick and Wimblington. 

It ended at City Road Car Park in March.   

Organiser Tim Taylor, of JT Seeds, in Doddington, said: “Despite the weather conditions, it was a huge success. 

“We had 54 tractors take part and we all had a fantastic time.

"The run even went international as someone was watching us pass their front door from Belgium using a Ring doorbell. That made us really laugh.” 

He added: “Our aim this year was to fundraise for the smaller local charities which do fantastic work on tight budgets. 

“We’re still collecting donations. So become a member of the Fenland Farmers group on Facebook and we will share our bank details with you.” 

Participants from across the Fens took part.  

The event was co-ordinated by volunteers, who also took time out of their own busy Christmas schedules to create Santa’s reindeer and sleigh. 

The structure was hand painted by Francesca Lyons. 

Fenland Farmers got together for their first tractor run when the Clap for Carers campaign was running during the coronavirus pandemic.  

It has since grown from strength to strength and the group organises a steady stream of fundraising activities throughout the year.  

Tim said: “As well as the fundraising, we also do this for two other reasons.  

“One is to highlight the importance of agriculture and other farming-related industries in the area. It’s such an important part of our heritage.  

“The other is show the wider public the sheer scale of our machinery and give them the opportunity to see it up close. 

“I appreciate it can be annoying that we’re slow and can take up the roads at times. But hopefully they can understand why that’s the case when they stand next to the vehicles.”