NFU members were out in force for the extra special festive gesture heading off in convoy on a charity tractor run from Darlington Auction Mart on Monday, December 16.
The tractors travelled through Darlington town centre before delivering presents and farm produced food donated by local businesses to the children鈥檚 ward at the hospital and the food bank at Angel Trust in Bishop Auckland.
The tractor run also helped to highlight farmers鈥� concerns around the family farm tax and the impact of the Autumn Budget on family farms and rural businesses.
The local community rallied behind the event to show support.
Bringing Christmas spirit
NFU North Riding and Durham incoming Chair and fifth generation farmer Clare Wise said: 鈥淲e were blown away with the support we鈥檝e had from local farmers, and it was lovely to visit the local hospital and food bank to give something back to the local community. The children were delighted.
鈥淲e wanted to bring together local farmers and the community in a friendly event while also highlighting the massive impact of the Budget on family farms.
鈥淚t鈥檚 not just about inheritance tax it is about many of the other measures being pushed through that will affect our businesses.
Clare added: "I feel proud of everyone that has taken part in our charity tractor run it has really brought everyone together farmers, businesses and the public. It shows that this isn't a job to us - this is our heart and soul.
鈥淔armers have a lot to deal with and it鈥檚 a tough time, but this was about charity fundraising and bringing some Christmas spirit to people.鈥�