Knaresborough Tractor Run: 400 tractors raise nearly £30,000 for Yorkshire Air Ambulance

Hundreds of tractors travelled through the Nidderdale countryside on Sunday (March 8) as the annual Knaresborough Tractor Run returned to raise vital funds for Yorkshire Air Ambulance.

A total of 402 tractors set off from the Great Yorkshire Showground towards Pateley Bridge, with crowds gathering along the route and in villages to watch the convoy of vintage, classic and modern machinery.

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Liz Fox, from the Knaresborough Tractor Run committee, said the event had been an 'incredible day'.

"A huge thank you to the 402 tractors that took part in this year's Knaresborough Tractor Run. The turnout from drivers and supporters was fantastic," she said.

"We were also amazed by the huge public turnout, especially in Pateley Bridge. It was brilliant to see so many people out waving and supporting the convoy through the villages."

Tractor run raises thousands for charity

Organisers said the event has raised around £29,000 so far, with hopes of reaching £30,000 for Yorkshire Air Ambulance.

You can still donate to the fundraiser here.

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Ms Fox said: "Unfortunately, the Yorkshire Air Ambulance helicopter was unable to land due to fog. Safety always comes first, but we appreciate everyone's understanding."

She added: "Thank you again to everyone who drove, marshalled, donated, sponsored or came out to wave. Your support makes the event possible."

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Event continues in memory of farmer

The tractor run, founded in 2012 by local farmers and tractor enthusiasts, continues in memory of farmer Michael Spink.

Mr Spink was one of Knaresborough Tractor Run's founders and died in January 2017, aged just 24, with the run now held each year in his honour.

Since it began, the event has raised more than £160,000 for charity.

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