Christmas tractor convoy cancelled over safety fears

The event, which follows a route past Alder Hey Children's Hospital, started in 2020

Liverpool's annual Christmas tractor convoy has been cancelled indefinitely over safety concerns, its organiser said.

The event, which sees tractors decorated in lights and follow a route through Knowsley and Liverpool to raise funds for Alder Hey children's charity, first started in 2020.

Organiser and local farmer Olly Harrison took to social media to share the "sad news" he had been unable to secure support from Merseyside Police and local councils needed to deal with the large crowds the event attracts.

Liverpool City Council confirmed it was aware of the organiser's decision not to hold the event this year. Merseyside Police and Knowsley Council have been contacted for comment.

"Sadly there won't be one this year," Mr Harrison said in a post on X.

"The farmers are up for doing it but we've not been able to have any support from the police in the last few years and particularly the councils in the last year especially

"It's not going to be possible to hold it. Sadly all good things come to an end."

Olly Harrison said it was "sad news" the event would not take place

Mr Harrison thanked everyone who had supported previous years' events, which he said had raised over £250,000 for Alder Hey Children's Hospital.

The convoy highlight was its parade past the hospital on East Prescot Road.

"We never say never," Mr Harrison added.

"If the council want to take it on board and we provide the spectacle... in a way it's possible we would do that, but at the moment I can't see that happening."