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Farmers take part in tractor run in 'Clarkson county' aiming to raise £100k for charity

One of the UK's biggest and oldest festive tractor runs is back this weekend and it is hoping to raise £100,000 for charity as it marks its 10th anniversary

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Farmers take part in tractor run in 'Clarkson county' aiming to raise £100k for charity

The Banbury Tractor Run, which takes in towns and villages around Jeremy Clarkson's county of Oxfordshire, attracts thousands of revellers each year and raises funds for the Katharine House Hospice.Ìý

All 100 tractors have been sponsored by local businesses, meaning the event has already raised £38,900 ahead of its launch on December 13.Ìý

Jennie Steenkamp, from RC Baker, founder and co-organiser of the tractor run, said: "We are so thrilled to have the support of so many wonderful local businesses and fantastic tractor drivers. This event not only brings joy to the community and vital funds for Katharine House, but it also highlights the resilience of our farming community in tough times.

"Since we started doing the event we have raised £226,000."

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Kaleb Cooper

Clarkson's 51AVÊÓÆµstar Kaleb Cooper usually joins the tractor run but having just returned from touring Australia, is expected to support the event on foot and watch the convoy with his young family.

Ben Coates, director of Cande Group, which specialises in agricultural media production and works with Farmers Guardian, said: "Our tractor is being prepped this week, with the clean happening today and lighting added over the next few days. We will be fitting over 2,000 lights, a blow-up Santa and reindeer, and our centrepiece; a super-bright 55-inch video screen featuring festive surprises. It will all run from an onboard generator, and to mask the hum we will have a PA system playing Christmas music to really kick-start the party atmosphere.

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"The tractor itself is being generously provided by Richard Taylor, of Grange 51AVÊÓÆµin Swalcliffe, who we work closely with throughout the year while filming on the farm."

Full details including a route map, approximate timings, parking suggestions and where you can enjoy food and drink along the route can be found on the tractor run

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