Festive tractor run set for hospice fundraiser

A convoy of illuminated agricultural vehicles is set to weave its way through the countryside to raise money for a hospice.

The annual RC Baker Tractor Run will see 100 decorated tractors take part as crowds turn out to watch the tractors drive through villages in north Oxfordshire on Saturday.

The event, which has been running annually since 2016, raises money for the Katharine House Hospice in Adderbury.

Rosann Thompson, from the hospice, told BBC Radio Oxford that the tractor run was "just a massive fun festive event".

She said: "Hundreds and thousands of people come out to watch and support the event, which brings in a fantastic energy to the evening."

"Every year it draws more and more people, and the amount it raises has grown so much that it's now become our flagship event at the hospice."

Last years tractor run raised about £50,000

The run started nine years ago, with the 26 tractors taking part raising about £2,000.

In comparison, Ms Thompson said last year's event raised "almost £50,000".

The festive fleet will leave Spring Hill Farm, Barford St Michael, at 17:00 GMT on Saturday evening.

During its route, the agricultural convoy will take in South Newington, Milcombe, Bloxham, Clifton and Deddington, as well as Banbury.

Along the route, about a hundred volunteers will be collecting for Katherine House Hospice.

Ahead of this years event, the hospice was forced to warn people about "several fake pages and groups" on Facebook claiming to be official Banbury Christmas Tractor Run.

Katherine House provides specialist palliative care for about 1,300 adults with incurable illnesses every year.