The streets of Essex came alive with festive cheer on Saturday, 7th December 2024, as the annual Essex Christmas Tractor Run lit up the county. Organised by the Lyon family and hosted by Crawfords Group at their Writtle depot on the outskirts of Chelmsford, organisers are proud to announce that the 2024 event has raised an impressive £14,639.71 for Essex & Herts Air Ambulance.
Over 110 tractors took part
Despite facing challenging weather conditions and multiple weather warnings, the event pressed ahead, with the majority of bad weather holding off until the tractors returned from completing their route. Over 110 tractors, adorned with bright lights and festive decorations, delighted onlookers of all ages as they travelled along the A414 to Chipping Ongar High Street, before returning through Stondon Massey and Blackmore. Hundreds of locals lined the streets, braving the elements to show their support and share in the christmas spirit.
The event wouldn’t have been possible without the range of local sponsors and supporters including to the two main sponsors, The Green Barn Farm Shop and Crawfords Group. Their support is invaluable in making the event a success.
Liz Lyon, the driving force behind the run, reflected on the event’s growth and significance:
“This is the 3rd year of holding this event. No one had previously organised a Christmas tractor run in Essex before, so my sons encouraged me to start one. With the incredible support of Bob Crawford and his team at Crawfords Group, we’ve created a fantastic community event. This year, we’ve welcomed tractors from as far as the Essex/Suffolk border, Rochford, Southminster, and Stanford-le-Hope.”
For Liz, the event holds a deeply personal meaning. Her son was airlifted by an air ambulance after a serious accident 10 years ago.
“This is my way of giving back to an incredible charity,” Liz shared. “In the farming community, you never know when their life-saving services might be needed. Every donation, no matter how small, makes a difference.”
Raising funds for a vital cause
The organisers were thrilled by the turnout and support from local villagers and residents from surrounding towns and villages who came out to watch the festive procession. The Essex Christmas Tractor Run continues to grow in popularity each year, spreading holiday joy while raising funds for a vital cause.
Hannah Kelsey, Group Marketing Manager at Crawfords Group, expressed her delight at the event’s impact:
“The Essex Christmas Tractor Run is a truly special event that brings together the community and showcases the generosity of our local farmers and businesses. We are proud to support such a meaningful cause and to help raise vital funds for Essex & Herts Air Ambulance. Seeing so many people come together, despite the weather, was heartwarming and a testament to the strength of our community.”
Thank you, See you next year!
The Lyon family and Crawfords Group wish to thank everyone who attended, donated, and participated in this year’s tractor run. Your generosity has made a tangible difference in supporting the life-saving work of Essex & Herts Air Ambulance. Here’s to another spectacular event on Saturday 6th December 2025 at Crawfords Group in Writtle!