AN ANNUAL charity tractor run has proved another runaway success.

More than 60 vehicles took part in the convoy, which made its way around the Worth Valley.

Although the run predominantly comprised tractors, there were also Land-Rovers and Jeeps.

They set off from Colin Appleyard’s garage in Halifax Road, Keighley, for the 20-plus-mile trip.

A break for mince pies – donated by Grandma Wild’s – and coffee was taken at the Grouse Inn, Oldfield.

And after a collection in Haworth Main Street, the drivers headed for their final stop – the village’s Bronte Hotel.

There, soup was served and a raffle staged.

Delighted organisers say over £1,620 was raised for the Yorkshire Air Ambulance (YAA), which was represented at yesterday’s event.

Since the Christmas Bronte Tractor Run was first staged 18 years ago, it has continued to grow and around £40,000 has now been coined-in for the charity.

Stanley Turner was instrumental in founding the event, after an air-ambulance crew went to the aid of a friend who had collapsed and battled in vain to save him.

“A few of us got round a table to discuss how we could support this fantastic charity as a ‘thank you’ for what it did – and the tractor run was born,” said Mr Turner, 86.

“It began on a small scale but has just grown and grown over the years.

“At this latest event we had people come across from Lancashire and throughout the area.

“It has become really popular and a lot of people have already said they’ll be back again for the Christmas 2019 run!

“The weather this time was a bit misty, so you couldn’t see much on the tops, but it was dry and fairly mild.

“It was a good run and the feedback was really positive.

“We receive donations of items from various companies and we’re extremely grateful for that support. A big thank-you goes to all those who contribute.

“And of course thanks too to everyone who takes part.

“The Yorkshire Air Ambulance is a lifesaving charity and it relies on donations to keep its helicopters flying.

“We are delighted to be able to do something to help.”

YAA needs to raise £12,000 a day, or £4.4 million a year, to keep its two helicopters airborne.

The charity serves a population of about five million people.

For more details about its work, visit yorkshireairambulance.org.uk.