Tractor marathon ploughs course round county to raise charity cash

Champion fundraiser Bernard Simpson, 80, of Beadlam, was the original organiser of the Beadlam Charity Tractor Run now in its 8th year. Having raised more than 40,000 for charity, he wanted another challenge.

He decided to drive 500 miles in seven days on vintage or classic tractors with 11 other invited drivers following as closely as possible to the boundary of North Yorkshire.

The tractor challenge set off on Saturday morning from Scarborough seafront and went around the Marine Drive, on the first leg towards Whitby.

The challenge will finish on the seafront this Friday afternoon after visiting Whitby, Richmond, Great Ayton, Tan Hill, Hawes, Ingleton, Ikley, Otley, Tadcaster, Drax, York, Sledmere, Hunmanby and Filey.

Marie Curie Community fundraiser for North and East Yorkshire Michael Streets said the money raised will go towards the provision of local Marie Curie nursing care for the terminally ill in their own homes. "This event will help to provide vital care to many patients and for that we are truly grateful and thank all the tractor drivers most sincerely."

To donate call 01723 378111.