179 tractors join memorial charity run for Nathan Saunders

YOUNG Farmers from across Devon and local farmers showed their support to remember a former Newton St Cyres YFC member at a Charity Tractor Run held on Sunday, September 27.

An amazing total of 179 tractors and drivers, one coming from as far away as Bude in Cornwall, gathered at Rudge Rew Farm, Morchard Bishop before taking part in the event in memory of Nathan Saunders.

Nathan tragically died aged just 19 years on Tuesday, March 10 following an agricultural accident at Brittledown Farm, near Cheriton Bishop.

A true country lad, Nathan grew up on his family farm near Sandford, with a love for farming, agriculture and the outdoors.

He always knew farming was where he wanted to be, and after finishing his education, he quickly found his place in the industry.

Nathan was happiest out on the farm and also enjoyed shooting and his beloved dog, Purdey.

He was a much-loved son, brother, friend and a treasured member of the community.

This tractor run was organised by Newton St Cyres Young Farmers Club to celebrate the life he lived, the farming life he loved and the many special memories he left behind.

Nathan’s father Steve, speaking on behalf of himself, his wife Steph and Nathan’s two brothers, Thomas and George, said: “We would like to thank everyone has come today and what an amazing turnout for Nathan. We are amazed by the number of tractors here, thank you to everyone who has helped make it a success and raise money for two great charities in Nathan’s memory.”

They thanked all who had supported the family in the last six months, to those who arranged they event, the sponsors, to Alex Greenhalf and others who helped restore Nathan’s tractor, to the Bailey family who hosted the event and the Grigg family for their support.

They thanked Harry Grigg for helping arrange the day and especially Milly Grigg for her hard work co-ordinating everything.

Harry said: “Firstly, thank you for coming and supporting. It is truly incredible to see 179 tractors here today for a man we all knew and loved, Nathan Saunders.”

A moment of silence to remember Nathan followed the speeches and, before leaving, all of the drivers sounded their tractor air horns in a mass sound.

Nathan’s Ford 4000 tractor which he was unable to finish restoring was completed by Alex Greenhalf and friends. It led the Tractor Run and was driven by Harry Grigg.

The Tractor Run left Morchard Bishop and went to Lapford, Thelbridge, Black Dog, Kennerleigh, Sandford, New Buildings and back to Morchard Bishop.

Hundreds of people turned out to watch the parade along the route, waving, cheering and giving rounds of applause in the villages.

The drivers returned for a barbecue, satisfied that it was a fitting tribute which raised funds for Devon Air Ambulance and the Farm Safety Foundation, widely known by its nickname, Yellow Wellies.