Annual Event Raises Funds for #Willdoes Charity in Memory of William Paddy
Over 100 tractors, adorned with sparkling Christmas lights, traveled through the picturesque towns and villages of Dorset in the fourth annual charity tractor run, raising funds and awareness for mental health support for young people.
The event, organized by Lesley Paddy, was created in memory of her son, William, who tragically took his life at the age of 14 in 2020. The #Willdoes charity, founded by Lesley, provides funding for sports activities and other initiatives aimed at supporting young people’s mental health across Dorset and surrounding areas.
A Growing Tradition for Mental Health Awareness
This year, 116 tractors participated, driving through local communities including Dorchester, Bovington, Wool, Affpuddle, Tolpuddle, and Broadmayne, with each tractor decorated with festive lights and decorations. Lesley Paddy expressed her emotional connection to the event, sharing, “It’s my favorite event because we have so many young people involved, and they can drive a tractor from the age of 16.”
Lesley also mentioned the significance of the run, noting, “It’s quite emotional for me because my son would have turned 21 next year.”
Community Support for Young People’s Mental Health
The event allows young people, aged 16 and up, to drive tractors that are less than 8 feet wide, offering them a chance to be involved in a community-driven cause. Event organizers Bryony Vaughan and Kian Merry spoke about the growing popularity of the event, noting that the number of participants has increased every year. “We had around 80 tractors last year, 110 the year before, and this year we had about 116. The event is growing each year,” said Bryony and Kian.
Raising Funds for Mental Health Initiatives
This year’s charity tractor run successfully raised £5,000, contributing to the ongoing efforts of #Willdoes to provide mental health support to young people through various activities and programs. The event has become a beloved tradition in the Dorset community, continuing to grow in both participation and impact each year.
Source: BBC News