4:10pm Tuesday 6th January 2009
By Staff reporter
VINTAGE tractors of all makes, colours, sizes and conditions gathered on the car park of a Delamere pub for an annual event.
Drivers from across Cheshire and surrounding counties, the Midlands and North Wales joined on Saturday, December 27, for Cheshire Vintage Tractor and Engine Club’s Christmas road run.
There were around 131 tractors, some towing trailers with family members on board, at the Fourways Inn at Delamere – quite a spectacle for tractor enthusiasts.
The first tractors set off at 9.30 am along the lanes towards Tarporley and Little Budworth.
The Starkey family from Petty Pool Farm, Whitegate, provided the off-road section of the run across their undulating farmland.
Committee member Judith Barnes said: “It was a great sight to see a trail of 131 tractors heading over the frost covered fields in bright sunlight.”
The run next headed for Little Leigh and the Holly Bush Pub, where 200 cold people were served a very welcome coffee and mince pie by the manager.
Then it was off to Acton Bridge, Crowton and Norley, through Delamere Forest and finally back to the Fourways Inn.
Judith said: “It was quite an achievement that none of the tractors had any serious mechanical problems while on the run.
“Once back after the 22-mile run, drivers and family got warm in the Fourways before 212 people sat down to a delicious three-course meal provided by the owner, Lloyd.
“The day finally ended with a raffle for everyone there. Club members and friends generously donated 34 raffle prizes, raising £360 for a Cheshire children’s charity yet to be decided.”
Judith added: “It takes a great deal of organisation to arrange such a large road run, which is growing in popularity each year.
“The club’s committee very much appreciates the part played by everyone involved. Now all that is left is to make sure we beat 131 tractors on next year’s Christmas Road Run.”
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