2014 Pendle Charity Tractor Run takes to streets

More than 100 farm vehicles are expected to take part in this year’s sixth annual Pendle Charity Tractor Run which celebrates the life of local farmer Andrew Nutter.

Andrew, who farmed Sabden Old Hall Farm with brother Brian and mum Ruth, died of cancer in 2009 aged just 40.

Since his death his sister Laura Standring, of Tynedale Old Stables, Newchurch, and his best friend Phil Sanderson, of Rigg of England Farm, Fence, have organised the rally for the local community.

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In doing so, they have raised more than £12,000, which they have donated in Andrew’s name to a number of charities.

Last year money was given to Pendleside Hospice, which looked after Laura’s mother-in-law, Anne Standring, who in 2012 also died of cancer.

This year, it will be divided between the chemotherapy unit at Blackburn Royal Hospital and Rosemere Cancer Foundation, which fund-raises to bring world class cancer care to patients from throughout Lancashire including Pendle, wherever they are treated.

This year’s run, which is being sponsored by Burnley-based fuel company Craggs Energy, takes place today.

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It will start at 4pm from Rigg of England Farm with – as has become tradition – Brian Nutter leading the vehicles off on a route that goes through Newchurch, Barley, Sabden Fold, Higham, Fence, Barrowford, Blacko and Roughlee before returning to its starting point.

Participants will be welcomed back to the farm with tea supplied by Phil and cakes baked by Laura, who runs home bakery business Pendle Pat-a-Cakes. They will also receive a commemorative mug.

Laura said: “We started off with just 40 or so vehicles in the first rally but every year, more and more people have turned out, which is fantastic.”

It is hoped all participating vehicles will be safely back in Fence before dark falls but en route, members of Pendle Young Farmers will hold a bucket collection for spectators wishing to donate.

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Anyone with a vintage or modern tractor, Land Rover or vehicle that has a farming connection from a milk float to a quad bike is welcome in the rally. To enter costs just £5 inclusive of refreshments and commemorative mug. Simply call Laura on 07770 917699.

Probably the youngest participant in this year’s event will be Laura and her husband Stuart’s newborn son Freddie at just four-weeks-old! He will join his mum and dad and sisters Tia (11) and Isla (four) on the course.

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