LAUGHTER and cheers filled the streets as a Christmas charity tractor run trundled through Cheshire.
A phenomenal 73 tractors took part in a festive event and raised more than £5,000 for East Cheshire Hospice.
The final figure is set to be even higher as cash is still being counted.
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One woman said: "It was a spectacular turn out, well done."
Crowds turned out to watch the colourful cavalcade of vehicles decked in Christmas lights and decorations, as it visited towns and villages including Knutsford, Mobberley, Wilmslow and Goostrey on Saturday.
Alex Richardson, chairman of Knutsford Young Farmers, said: “It was a lot bigger than we expected.
“We had 73 tractors, the whole trail ended up being 1.2 miles long!
“When you saw them all lined up, it was amazing.
“We even had some wagons, pickup trucks and a big self-propelled sprayer.
“Children were waving and there were loads of families watching.”
Alex, who works for the NFU, organised the event with boyfriend Will Venables and cousin Dan Richarson, both farmers.
“My nan, a farmer’s wife, was moved by it all,” said Alex.
“Everyone was in a festive spirit. There was a proper feel good atmosphere.
“We had a few sponsorships and several farmers donated food and drink for our barbecue afterwards.
“Many people knew each other already but it was lovely to have a Christmas catch up before everyone went off for a family time.”
Prizes were awarded for the best decorated modern and vintage tractors.
“This is the biggest festive one we’ve ever organised,” said Alex.
“People are already asking if we will do it again next year, it was that successful.
“We didn’t hold up any traffic, we just kept on moving.
“When we turned a corner and saw crowds, we got a great kick out of it and so did they.
“People looked over the moon to see us.
“The event has really brought the community together, highlighting the true meaning of Christmas.
“It has also promoted British farming in a positive light, as without those driving the tractors, we would not have our Christmas dinners that we all know and love!
“And that’s what Young Farmers clubs are all about.”
The run started at Alex’s home, Woods Tenament Farm in Plumley, and ended with a festive celebration for everyone who took part at Will’s Holly Tree Farm, Lower Withington.
Farmer Adam Brown of Bidlea Dairy, said: “Thank you to Knutsford Young Farmers for organising the Christmas tractor run.
“Raising money for East Cheshire Hospice is something which is very close to our hearts.
“Huge thanks to Will Venables and Alex Richardson for hosting it and making it happen.
“An amazing day and I’m sure everyone was full of it.”
East Cheshire Hospice provides essential care, support and compassion to local adults facing life limiting illnesses.
The charity relies on fundraising to pay for more than 80 per cent of their daily costs.
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