Farmers make 'fantastic' effort for tractor run

More than 250 festive tractors took part in a parade through Leicestershire to raise money for two local charities.

The fifth annual Archers Festive Tractor Run set off from Lutterworth on Sunday evening, passing through villages such as Countesthorpe and Whetstone on the way.

Organiser Ryan Archer, from Blaby, said the event would raise money for both LOROS and the Leicestershire MS Therapy Centre.

He said there was "another great turnout" on Sunday and praised the "fantastic" effort made by all the farmers who decorated their tractors for the occasion.

"I think overall yesterday was a good turnout from the public, considering the horrible winds we had, which were absolutely biting," he added.

"Even though the weather was against them, I still think you could see people jumping up and down, clapping and cheering as we went by.

"I think it was extremely well received.

"A lot of people had picnics in the garden, barbecues you could see going on, a lot of mulled wine. A lot of people dancing, which is always good to see as well."

Mr Archer, 44, was diagnosed with thyroid cancer 10 years ago and attends the centre twice a week for oxygen.

The tractor runs have raised about £150,000 for causes based in Leicestershire over the last four years.

He said he expects this year's event to raise somewhere around the £30,000 mark.

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