While tractor runs have been a rare sight over the past year due to Covid-19, this didn’t stop one vintage tractor club from presenting much-needed funds to a great cause.

Bessbrook District Vintage Tractor Club, based in Newry, Co. Down, raised some £4,197 (€4591.23) for the Southern Area Hospice and Cancer Fund for Children.

The funds were raised, according to the club, from events held before Covid-19 struck earlier in the year. Personal donations from club members were also added.

In a brief statement, Southern Area Hospice Services said:

Bessbrook District Vintage Tractor Club Committee presented a total of £4,197.51 to the Southern Area Hospice and Cancer Fund for Children through previous funds raised pre Covid-19, which was also added to by personal donations from club members.

“This is a very kind gesture from these men and the money is very gratefully received during these times when all fundraising events have been cancelled.

“The current pandemic has not slowed the need for these two wonderful charities and they both are very appreciative of this help.

“The club would traditionally run a number of tractor runs during the year as well as a very successful Threshing and Family Fun Day in Bessbrook every September.

“Unfortunately, none of these could be held this year but it still didn’t prevent the club from making very worthwhile contributions to charity,” the vintage club said.