Mile-long convoy of festive tractors take to the road in memory of Macclesfield teen

By Matthew Hancock-Bruce 30th Dec 2024

A mile-long convoy of tractors made its way through Macclesfield over the weekend.

A festive tractor run took place on Saturday, December 28, in memory of Broken Cross resident Mia Jennings.

The swimming instructor and HR apprentice died in January 2023 age just 19 after suffering a cardiac arrest.

Since her death, dozens of events have taken place to raise money for Cardiac Risk in the Young (CRY), with Saturday's tractor run adding a further £5,210 to the pot.

Organiser Kevin Woodward, a friend of Mia's family, said: "There were so many people lining the streets.

"To see how much it has lifted the spirts of local communities is just another level.

"I never dreamed I'd be able to do something like that.

"It was a mega sight to see everyone smiling and waving as you go past.

"I couldn't sleep on Saturday night, I was just trying to take it all in."

Around 100 vehicles took part (Credit: Timsphotosuk)

Mia's Festive Run set off from Higher Farm on Byley Lane at 3pm.

Around 100 vehicles took part, including festively decorated cars, tractors, trucks and even Santa's sleigh.

Asked how it was to put together such a big event, Kevin said: "It's stressful! It's a lot of pushing it on social media to get the word out there.

"It's always worrying until the moment you set off as you never know how many people are going to turn up.

"But it went amazingly, it was absolutely brilliant!"

He added: "The Flower Pot in Macclesfield was just absolutely rammed with people.

"Every road in the area was packed.

"It was overwhelming to be honest.

"At some points we must have been stretched out over about a mile and a half."

Kevin, from Northwich, helped to organise the first Mia's Festive Tractor Run in December 2023, raising over £3,000.

This year, he set out to help Mia's family reach their overall target of raising £100,000 for CRY.

"It was a lot to worry about as I don't like breaking a promise, but I'm pleased to say we've done it," Kevin said.

"To help them reach their goal is just something else."

The event raise over £5,000 for CRY (Credit: Timsphotosuk)

Plans for the 2025 event are already underway.

Kevin continued: "I think this will be an event that keeps going.

"The support we have received from everyone is amazing!

"I know Macclesfield Town Council got behind us and I have had a message from a Cheshire West and Chester councillor offering to put up a prize for the best dressed tractor next year."

Even Father Christmas got involved, thanks to Middlewich Round Table (Credit: Timsphotosuk)

     

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