Festive Tractor Run Brings Christmas Cheer

The much-loved Essex Illuminated Christmas Charity Tractor Run, hosted by Crawfords Group Writtle depot, returned for its fourth year, spreading holiday cheer and raising vital funds for Essex & Herts Air Ambulance (EHAAT). Organised by Liz Lyon and her arable farming family of North Benfleet Hall, Wickford and the Crawfords Group team, this spectacular event featured a convoy of 115 decorated tractors lighting up the streets of Essex.

Hundreds of locals lined the route to show their support. The procession began at the Crawfords Group yard in Writtle, travelled along the A414 to Chipping Ongar High Street, and made its way back through Stondon Massey and Blackmore.

The Christmas Tractor Run, sponsored by The Green Barn Farm Shop Café and Crawfords Group, began as a modest idea inspired by a festive tractor sighting in Oxford. Since then, it has grown into a much-anticipated annual event, drawing participants from across Essex and beyond.

Since its inception in 2022, the Christmas Tractor Run has raised an impressive £31,000 for charity and while donations are still being counted, organisers estimate around £13,000 for EHAAT this year.

Clair Mitchell, from EHAAT’s fundraising team, praised the event:

“We are incredibly grateful to Liz and her family, the team at Crawfords Group, Essex Young Farmers, and everyone involved in organising this fantastic festive spectacle. Thank you also to everyone who showed up to support us and who gave so generously on the evening. The funds raised helps to provide vital support for our life-saving mission. It’s wonderful to see it growing bigger and better each year.”

The evening was a magical celebration of holiday spirit, community togetherness, and generosity, all in support of a cause that makes a real difference.

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