County Durham tractor run for suicide awareness charity

Farmers and enthusiasts polished up their tractors, both vintage and new, to take part in the Charity Tractor Road Run through Teesdale, in aid of the Chester-le-Street-based If U Care Share. 

The event, organised by Rachel Anderson and her friend Martyn Hodgson, has raised more than £1,742 so far.
 

Rachel, of West Auckland, looks after the servicing side for tractors and combine harvesters at Lloyd in Bishop Auckland, while Martyn, of Woodland, is self-employed a tractor mechanic. 

The two friends got together to organise their first tractor rally last year, when they raised money for Motor Neurone Disease Association and Dementia UK

Rachel said: "This year we decided to support If U Care Share which is a wonderful charity.

Rachel Anderson who organised the event with Martyn Hodgson (Image: ANDY FUTERS: Northern Echo Camera Club)

"We had nearly 65 tractors turn up on the day – from vintage to new. We did not know until the day how many tractors would be there. We were delighted with the support we got and would like to thank everyone."

The 35-mile route started at Woodland and took in Staindrop, Langdon, Winston, Eppleby, Piercebridge, Headlam and Ingleton

Rachel added: "Thank you to Philip Orton for allowing us to use his field for lunch and to Judith Donald and family for allowing access through their farm. 

"And thanks to Lee Johnson, Wendy Hodgson, Joyce Anderson, Gillian Anderson and Andrew Clark for helping through the day."

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