Festive tractor convoy to shine bright for Hospice in fifth year anniversary parade
A procession of more than 100 brightly decorated tractors and farm vehicles are preparing to take to the roads of Baldock, Letchworth and Hitchin this December for the fifth year running. Dubbed a ‘spectacle’ and ‘an event not to be missed’, the tractor rally is organised by farmers in support of their local hospice.
The Farmers on Christmas Lights Tour is set to take place on Sunday 21st December in aid of Garden House Hospice Care. It is the biggest free community event in Hertfordshire, with 50,000 people expected to line the streets and watch the tractors, which will be adorned with Christmas-themed decorations and fairy lights.
A Christmas turkey-themed tractor in last year’s parade (photo credit: Roman Turney)
Baldock-based farmer Richard Hill leads the Farmers on Christmas Lights Tour:
“I know a number of people who have previously been cared for by the Hospice, so I originally thought up the event to raise funds for them during their Covid Appeal in 2020. It has grown bigger than I could have imagined and, on this fifth anniversary, the need to support them is greater than ever during their current financial crisis.
“Last year we raised more than £35,000 in donations. This year, we’re really aiming for the £50,000 mark which could fund five days of the Hospice’s entire services over the Christmas season ?" five years of tractors, five days of care!”
Garden House announced a £1.1m funding shortfall in October, leaving them with a £750,000 gap to fill this year and no choice but to undergo a consultation period with more than 20 jobs at risk. Events such as The Farmers on Christmas Lights Tour are crucial to the charity, helping to make a dent in this deficit and securing the future of their care.
Over 100 tractors appear in the parade, creating a spectacle for the whole family to enjoy (photo credit: Toby Scott)
Carla Pilsworth is Director of Income Generation at the Hospice:
“As we celebrate the 5th year of this incredible event, the Farmers on Christmas Lights Tour means more to Garden House than ever before. It’s my favourite fundraiser because it shows our community at its very best, coming together when we need you most.
“We are facing a critical moment at Garden House. Every donation, no matter the size, will directly help us keep our vital services running. If you enjoy the parade, please give what you can. Your support right now is absolutely essential.”
Event details
- 6.00pm, Baldock: Convoy begins in Clothall Road, making its way onto the High Street before exiting town via Hitchin Street and Baldock Road
- 6.45pm, Letchworth: Arrives via Pixmore Way, into Norton Way South, up Gernon Road and Eastcheap, heading back down the Broadway onto Hitchin Road
- 7.30pm, Hitchin: Leads via Walsworth Road, circling Hermitage Road, High Street, Sun Street and Bridge Street.
Richard Hill concludes:
“Combined, donations of any size will make all the difference to Garden House. Please give what you can so they can continue supporting local people and their families facing a life-limiting illness this Christmas. They need the community’s help more than ever, and this community event is the perfect way to show your support.
“Even if every single person who came to watch donated just £1, we’d easily reach the £50,000 target.”
You can donate through our website, JustGiving or by texting TRACTOR to 70460 to donate £5 (texts cost the donation amount plus one standard network rate message).