Award-winning festive tractor parade raises £37,000

If you were out there that Christmassy night on 21st December, you’ll have seen the incredible crowds gathered along the 8.7 mile route, ready to catch a glimpse of more than 150 twinkling tractors and farm vehicles. And what a spectacle the Farmers on Christmas Lights Tour was!

Photo credit: Fade to Gray Photography & Jane Evans Photography

The tractor parade was founded four years ago by Baldock-based farmer Richard Hill in response to the challenges of the pandemic, aiming to bring joy to the community whilst raising much-needed funds for Garden House Hospice Care.

 
“This year’s tractor rally was the biggest and best yet,” said Richard Hill. “This event not only brightens the streets of Baldock, Letchworth, and Hitchin but also supports the incredible work of a charity very close to my heart. The Hospice has cared for friends of mine with such dignity and I’m sure many of you will know someone who has received their care too.”

After all the donations from the public and local corporate sponsors had been counted, the charity has announced that a staggering £37,310 was raised!

Richard Hill presents Garden House Hospice Care with £37,310, raised at Farmers on Christmas Lights Tour 2024

Carla Pilsworth is Director of Income Generation at Garden House Hospice Care:

“We rely heavily on community fundraising and need to raise £15,300 every single day to fund our services. The Farmers on Christmas Lights Tour is an essential event in helping meet these financial needs. We were able to run our compassionate care and wellbeing services for more than two days over Christmas, helping to make Christmas a special one for patients and their families; providing round the clock care, comfort and lasting memories.”

And the celebration doesn’t stop there - this beloved event has been announced as the winner of the Best Local Event category in the Mum’s Guide to Hitchin Awards 2024!

As voted for by the community, this accolade highlights the best of what’s on in our local area. 
“This award is recognition of the power of coming together as a community to share in what has become a festive tradition for thousands of people. We’ll be back for Christmas 2025 - be sure to put Saturday 20th December in your diary!” said Richard.

If you’d like to partner in next year’s event, we have a range of impressive sponsorship packages available. Contact us at corporate@ghhospicecare.org.uk for an initial chat.