Last year's Pontfaen YFC's Illuminated Tractor and 4x4 Run raised more than £8,000 for good causes, it has been announced.

Hundreds of people turned out in December to see the procession at various places along the route through Brecon and its surrounding areas.

The club has thanked McCartneys LLP for permitting them to start the event at Brecon Market.

Sian Healey welcomed everyone and introduced the judge Wyn Jones, Welsh rugby international.

Wyn had the difficult task of choosing a winner among the fantastically decorated vehicles. Each tractor was adorned with intricate light displays, ranging from colourful geometric patterns to elaborate scenes depicting holiday traditions. As Wyn walked down the line of tractors, he marvelled at the creativity and hard work put into each one. It was a tough decision, but after much consideration, Wyn ultimately awarded the top prize to W. W. Bowen Ltd. The crowd cheered as the proud owner of the winning tractor was presented with the cup by Wyn and vouchers donated by Wynnstay.

Second place went to the igloo created by Club President Nic Williams and her fellow teammates Karen Davies, Terry Holmes, Cathy Ingram, Amy Russell, Gemma Sandison, Rhiannon Thomas, and Zoe Verry - who are taking part in the Artic Blast fundraising for Velindre Cancer Centre. In six weeks’, time she will be taking part in the Venture to Victory - travelling 100km in seven days across the Arctic Circle.

The Best Dressed Driver and passenger was won by Gerwyn Rees and Ann Davies dressed as Joseph and Mary with their donkey.

The tractor run was a resounding success this year, thanks to the hard work and dedication of the tractor drivers who participated. These dedicated individuals spent countless hours decorating their tractors with light displays, turning the tractors into works of art which were a sight to behold as they paraded through Brecon and the surrounding areas. The drivers should be commended for their efforts, which helped to create a festive and memorable atmosphere for all who attended. The success of the tractor run is testament to the passion and creativity of these dedicated individuals.

Sincere thanks to Morrisons for donating food for the drivers, also to the Co-op, Builth Wells for donating the mince pies to give with the mulled wine for the onlookers.

The club would like to thank the following sponsors for their generous support of our event; Aber Farm Shepherds Hut, Alpaca My Boots, Beacons Business Interiors Ltd (BBI), Brecon Car Sales, Brecon Car Rentals, Brecon Trailers, Brynich Barn, Caleb Roberts Insurance Services, Caroline’s Real Bread Company, Clee Tompkinson & Francis, Cradoc Golf Club, Cooke & Arkwright, Ivor Duggan & Sons, Farmers Lavender, T C Fencing, AV Griffiths & Son, Golden Valley Catering, W J James & Co, D & M Jones Developers Ltd, Lyndon R Jones Heating Services Ltd, Llandovery Tyres & Batteries, Lyndon Lewis Scanning, Meadow Makes, Mo’s Catering, Morgan’s Family Butchers, Pencelli Castle Caravan & Camping Park, Pwllgloyw Arms, Pixelhaze, Reflections, Spa Motors Brecon, The Strand Café, Builth Wells, Wigwam Brecon, Woodland Davies Solicitors, Youngs of Brecon.

Cllr Iain McIntosh said: “I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to Pontfaen Young Farmers’ Club for yet another incredible Annual Tractor Run in support of two incredible causes: Prostate Cancer and Velindre Cancer Centre. Their dedication and hard work shine through every year, and this time was no exception.

“The sight of those decorated tractors cruising through the scenic countryside was truly a sight to behold, and the sense of community and generosity that surrounded the event was heart-warming. Thanks to all the participants, volunteers, sponsors, and everyone who came out to make this event a success.

“Together, Pontfaen YFC has not only helped us celebrate our love for farming communities but also made a significant contribution to the fight against cancer by raising £8288.25 for the two charities.

“The money raised by the club will undoubtedly make a difference in the lives of those battling Prostate Cancer and support the outstanding work of Velindre Cancer Centre, helping to provide vital care and research opportunities for those in need.

“Thank you again, Pontfaen YFC, for your unwavering commitment to positively impacting our community. We can’t wait for next year’s Tractor Run!”

This year, a gleaming new sleigh was crafted by members, leaders, and parents through the support of the PAVO Youth Led Grant Scheme. Santa and the Grinch delighted children, spreading joy at Brecon High School Car Park by distributing gifts, made possible by a generous donation from Community Foundation Wales – Powys Welsh Church Act, for purchasing selection boxes.

The evening concluded with the raffle, thanks to all members who donated prizes and the following businesses for giving prizes; ‘The Box Cabin, The Wheelwright Arms, Philippa’s Driving School, Osmond’s, Hexby, RVW Pugh Ltd, Grassmen.

The club would like to thank Brecon Market Café, The Strand Café, Builth Wells, Youngs of Brecon and Greyhound Hotel, Builth Wells for selling raffle tickets.

Club Secretary, Sian Healey, proposed a vote of thanks in gratitude to everyone who had helped in any way to make the event such a huge success.

If anyone would like to help with the Tractor Run next year, please email [email protected]