08 Dec 2025
Massive tractors illuminated with festive lights made their way in a convoy across the district on Sunday as part of an annual fundraiser for the Alzheimer’s Society.
The event saw farmers drive their machines from West End Barns in Nomansland, through Wheathampstead, Harpenden High Street, Redbourn and finally St Albans during the course of the afternoon.
Harpenden photographer Steve Collins was on hand to capture pictures of the event as it made its way through the town.
Organiser Joshua Costa-Sa said: “This was the first year of the event and the first I have run. When I started planning it I was only expecting a few tractors and a couple of people coming out to support us,
“All I can say is just ‘wow!’ I was genuinely taken aback by the support of the public and the number of tractors which took part. We hope to have even more tractors next year.
“We chose to raise money for the Alzheimer’s Society this year as they have lost a lot of their funding, and we have raised just over £2,100, I couldn’t have done it without my amazing team helping with all the organising behind the scenes, I would like to say from the bottom of my heart a massive thank you to all the public who came out to support and donated and we look forward to seeing you all next year, from all the farmers on the run we wish you a merry Christmas and a happy new year.”
Soraya Bowen, Alzheimer’s Society Community Fundraiser, said: “We are so grateful that St Albans Farmers have chosen to support Alzheimer’s Society. Each hour people generously give to fundraise for us, every event they take part in, every pound they donate, they’re making a life-changing difference to people living with dementia.
“Alzheimer’s Society provides vital support to people living with dementia, funds ground-breaking research and campaigns to make dementia the priority it should be. It will take a society to beat dementia.
“There are around a million people living with dementia in the UK including more than 16,500 in Hertfordshire. We all have a role to play in ending the devastation dementia causes. We simply can’t reach everyone who needs us without the continued support of our incredible fundraisers like St Albans Farmers.”
Anyone worried about dementia symptoms in themselves or a loved one should speak to their GP. You can also use the Alzheimer’s Society dementia symptoms checklist at alzheimers.org.uk/checklist.
