A popular Withernsea fundraiser is set to return next month, as the Townsley family prepare to host the fifth England Hill Tractor Run in aid of Marie Curie.
The event will take place on Sunday, May 4, starting and finishing at England Hill Farm on the outskirts of Withernsea. Tractors of all ages and sizes are invited to take part, with the route covering around 15 miles through local villages including Roos, Hilston, Patrington and Hollym, before a short stop on Withernsea promenade and a return to the farm.
The run began in 2018 in memory of David Townsley, who grew up at England Hill Farm and was a keen collector and restorer of vintage Grey Ferguson tractors.
His daughter, Kathryn Townsley, said: “Our dad loved nothing more than taking his tractors out on the road. After he passed away in late 2017, we wanted to do something to honour him – and also to support Marie Curie, who were a huge help to us as a family during his final months.”
Since the first run, the family has raised more than £12,000 for the charity, with around 40 tractors taking part each year.
“We’re hoping for similar – if not even more – numbers this time,” Kathryn added. “There’s already been a lot of interest.”
Spectators are welcome both at the farm and along the route. For those staying at England Hill, there will be a chance to view a fire engine and meet members of the fire service and RNLI. Children’s games and activities will also be available.
As well as the spectacle of the tractors, food is a big part of the day. Kathryn said: “Entry for drivers is a minimum £15 donation, which includes lunch – this year it’s a Hot Trotters hog roast, plus our usual homemade cakes and bakes. We’ll also have sausage and bacon sandwiches available in the morning.”
Visitors not taking part in the run can also enjoy lunch at the farm, priced at £10 for adults and £5 for children. A bucket collection will be held along the route, with volunteers in Marie Curie yellow hats and tabards.
A raffle will take place after the tractors return to the farm.
Kathryn added: “We’re really grateful to everyone who’s helping us – whether by donating, volunteering or just turning out to cheer us on. We’d love to see as many people as possible on the day. And as ever, we just need the sun to come out!”
Updates will be posted on the England Hill Tractor Run Facebook page. Anyone who would like to make a donation but cannot attend can do so via justgiving.com/page/englandhilltractorrun2025.