MORE than 100 tractors – with a few 4x4s thrown in for good measure – gathered in Rhosgoch on Sunday, October 28, for the sixth running of the Rhosgoch YFC tractor run.

This year was an extra special event with the family of John Haydn Meredith donating a memorial trophy for the best turned out tractor. This went to Avon Williams, from Clyro for his superbly presented John Deere 1120. A number of tractor run veterans were out on the run, Bryn Rawlings from Clee hill borrowed one of Martyn Nicholls County tractors with Bryon Davies on another. Also on the run was Martyn’s father Tom on his International, Nigel Hantschar, Hereford and Mike Patrick, Leominister aboard their fergies. Among the newer tractors was a trio of black Valtras driven by Charlie James, Joe Chubb and Alex Little. James Goring led the procession out from the start field, pass the assembled on-lookers towards Newchurch. Then heading for Newgate and over the hill to drop down into Clyro. The main road crossing was excellently marshalled by members of the Rhosgoch YFC, heading down to the Wye Bridge and through the famous book town of Hay-on-Wye. Turning now for Cusop before a difficult turn right to climb up the hair-pinned road onto Cusop Hill. Travelling the ridge towards Michaelchurch Esclay before a left for Vagar Hill was taken at Llanrosser. Urishay, descending down to Snodhill and on to Dorstone for the lunch stop. After much needed refreshment, it was off towards Newton and bearing right to Clock Mills before working their way to Clifford. Over the privately owned Whitney toll bridge (which dates back to 1770) and a short stretch of main road to Rhydspence, a right turn to head over the hill to Crowther’s Pool and back to Newgate descending to the junction at Dol-y Cannau and returning to Rhosgoch.

Everyone agreed what an excellent day out it had been with the proceeds of the run being put towards the Young Farmers club and St Michael Hospice.

Thanks to the members of Rhosgoch YFC and parents and the family of John Haydn Meredith for donating their time and effort to assist with the run.