A FESTIVE tractor run which lit up the streets of Skipton just before Christmas last year has raised a 'staggering' more than £15,000 to support the vital work of two of the area's charities.

Organised by members of the Lothersdale Agricultural Society Discussion Group, the Rudolph’s Run event saw a procession of more than 140 tractors and farm vehicles, including a harvester, decked with Christmas lights and decorations make their way between Keighley and Skipton.

The run set off from Laycock in the early evening and made its way through Keighley, Riddlesden, Silsden, Steeton, Airedale Hospital, Sutton, Kildwick, Bradley and Skipton where the parade did a lap of the High Street before finishing at Craven Cattle Market.

As well as bringing festive cheer to hundreds of people who lined the streets, the dazzling procession of colourful tractors raised more than £15,000 to support the work of Airedale Hospital and Community Charity and Sue Ryder Manorlands Hospice.

Simon Wallbank, chair of Lothersdale Agricultural Discussion Group, said: “I feel immensely proud to be part of this fantastic event, not only raising money for great causes, but in connecting the farming community to a much wider audience.

“After all the hard work that goes into organising the event, it is humbling to see the joy on people’s faces, from all walks of life and all age groups as we drive along the route. The huge amount of money raised pays tribute to the generosity of so many people.”

The funds raised from the illuminating parade were presented to representatives from the two charities at an event in February.

Andrew Wood, community fundraising manager at Sue Ryder Manorlands Hospice, said: “A big thank you to Lothersdale Agricultural Society Discussion Group for organising this fantastic event - seeing the smiles on people’s faces as the tractors drove by was wonderful. The funds raised will support our expert palliative care and help us to continue to be there when it matters for local families.”

And Laura Hepworth, community fundraiser at Airedale Hospital and Community Charity said: “We are extremely grateful for the continued support from Lothersdale Agricultural Society Discussion Group. They raised a staggering amount and provided our community with some fabulous festive cheer – it was amazing to see. The funds raised will make a huge difference to patients and families at Airedale Hospital.”

To find out more about the work of Sue Ryder Manorlands Hospice and Airedale Hospital and Community Charity, and ways you can support them, visit sueryder.org/manorlands or airedalecharity.org.