Vintage tractor enthusiasts gear up for Somerset New Year’s Day charity run
A convoy of vintage tractors will travel through picturesque villages to support local charities
Somerset Tractor Runners are preparing for their annual New Year’s Day Tractor Run raising money for charitable causes.
The event will take place on 1st January 2026, starting at 11am from Thorney Lakes. It marks the seventh New Year’s Day run organised by the group since their formation during lockdown in 2020. Their convoy of vintage tractors will travel around 30 miles through the county’s scenic villages and towns, with local residents encouraged to watch and cheer along the route.
This year, the group aims to raise funds for Farmerados and the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance. Farmerados is a grassroots organisation dedicated to supporting mental health within the agricultural community. They work to reduce isolation and stress faced by many farmers, establishing safe spaces for discussions and peer connection. The Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance provides vital emergency services in rural areas, highlighting the importance of accessible healthcare for local communities.
Somerset Tractor Runners raised an impressive £3,393.12 last year, which has been split evenly between Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance and RABI, with each receiving £1,696.56.
Since its creation, Somerset Tractor Runners has raised over £11,000 for causes such as Dementia UK, Kingsbury Episcopi Primary School, and other vital charities. Their 2025 New Year’s Day Run saw around 140 tractors participate, and organisers hope this year’s turnout will be equally impressive.
Route details
The convoy will depart Thorney Lakes at 11am and travel through locations including Kingsbury Episcopi, South Petherton, Stoke-Sub-Hamdon, and Langport, before finishing back at Thorney Lakes. A halfway stop will be made at Ashway Park, hosted by Danny Cobden.
Somerset Tractor Runners have published an interactive map detailing the route, which is available on their website. They have also provided a live tracker for the event day and will share updates on their social media channels.
Supporting Somerset communities
Founded in 2020, Somerset Tractor Runners has grown into a vibrant online community of more than 3,700 vintage tractor enthusiasts. Each year, their tractor runs unite rural residents and provide opportunities to enjoy the county’s landscape while supporting meaningful causes.