Glanrhyd was the place to be on Sunday, June 15, as more than 260 tractors gathered for the 11th annual Welsh National Tractor Road Run (WNTRR), held this year in aid of the Wales Air Ambulance and local first responder teams in Cardigan and Crymych.

The event, which moves to a different part of Wales each year, attracted 263 entries, with participants travelling from across the country.

This year’s route was organised by the North Pembrokeshire Tractor Enthusiasts, a group of friends who came together to plan the event on behalf of WNTRR co-founders, brother and sister John and Anne Bates.

The run set off from Awenfryn, Glanrhyd - hosted by the Evans family - following a welcome and raffle draw, with the tractors heading off in a loop as crowds lined up to watch.

Kevin Evans leading the run at Ceibwr Beach
Kevin Evans leading the run at Ceibwr Beach (E A Bates)

Among the many enthusiasts taking part were several from Powys and neighouring counties. Veteran road-runner Martyn Nicholls, from New Radnor, was back in the saddle of his trusty Ford 1174 - having set off at 4:15am for the 215-mile round trip to compete and return home the same day.

Martyn Nicholls of New Radnor with his County 1174 did a round trip of 215 miles
Martyn Nicholls of New Radnor with his County 1174 did a round trip of 215 miles (E A Bates)

Llanwrtyd Wells duo Evan Lewis and Jim Davies, organisers of last year’s run, also took part, driving a Ford 3000 and Fordson Dexta respectively. They were joined by a trio from Brecon: Colin Lewis (International B275), Ian Griffiths (Ferguson TEF 20), and Alan Owens (Massey Ferguson 165). Llandovery’s Gwyn Williams drove a David Brown 770, with Gareth George (Massey Ferguson 65) and Llanwrda’s Doug Davies (International 523) completing a strong showing from Mid Wales.

Jim Davies of Llanwrtyd Wells
Jim Davies of Llanwrtyd Wells (E A Bates)
Evan Lewis - last year's organiser in Llanwrtyd Wells
Evan Lewis - last year's organiser in Llanwrtyd Wells (E A Bates)
Gareth George of Llandovery with his Massey Ferguson 65
Gareth George of Llandovery with his Massey Ferguson 65 (E A Bates)

One of the longest-distance travellers was Stewart Birse from Newton Stewart, Scotland. This year, he was kindly lent a David Brown 770 by hosts Keith and Kevin Evans.

The Welsh National Tractor Road Run and North Pembrokeshire Tractor Enthusiasts thank all sponsors, marshals, helpers and entrants for their support. Charity donations will be presented at a later date.