A festive convoy of illuminated tractors brought cheer to communities across the Lincolnshire Fens in December last year, raising more than £2,500 to support children’s healthcare at Pilgrim Hospital, Boston.
Organised by Owen Gillman from Holland Fen, the 24-mile festive tractor run began at the Bluebell Inn, Tattershall Thorpe. The convoy then wound its way through the Lincolnshire Fens before finishing at Maurice Belton’s Yard, Sibsey.
The eye-catching procession featured 45 decorated tractors and vans and even included an 85-year-old vintage Minneapolis Moline tractor from the USA.
Owen was determined to ensure the convoy would be even bigger and better than in previous years so their fundraising would make a greater impact on the children’s ward.
He said: “When we visited last year with our donation the staff explained exactly where our funds would be spent. We understand what is needed and how the poorly children will benefit from our donation.”
Fellow organiser, Judith Laird, whose husband farms in New York, Lincolnshire said the fundraiser was a way for local communities to give back to a hospital relied on by so many families. Together with her granddaughter Alice, she ran along the convoy collecting money from the hundreds of residents that lined the roads to cheer on the spectacle.
Owen, Judith and Alice recently presented a cheque for £2,582 to United Lincolnshire Hospitals Charity.
Charity Fundraiser, Connor Hill said: “A huge thanks to all the farming families who took part in the convoy and all the communities who came out to cheer them on. The money raised will help us provide those added extras that will make a real difference to the lives of our youngest patients during their stay at Pilgrim Hospital.”
In 2024/25 United Lincolnshire Hospital Charity helped transform healthcare in Lincolnshire’s hospitals by funded 342 projects totalling over £1.2million.
Owen Gillman (centre), Judith Laird, (left) Alice Short (right) presenting a cheque to members of Ward 41 Children’s Ward, Pilgrim Hospital, Boston.
