Whepstead Community Association’s tractor rally, which travelled through villages between Bury St Edmunds and Sudbury, raises £6,000

Hundreds of spectators basked in the sun as a village’s first tractor parade raised more than £6,000.

More than 200 people gathered at Whepstead Community Centre to gaze in awe as 67 tractors began their journey at 11am.

A further 300 lined the streets along the parade’s route, which saw the vehicles new and old – including two Volvo lorries – travel through Hawstead, Stanningfield, Lawshall, Hartest, Brockley and Rede.

The event was topped off with burgers, hotdogs, a raffle and an auction, with some excellent prizes on offer.

Kevin Mayes, from Whepstead Community Association, who organised the event alongside Richard Ford, said the event had an excellent turnout – and thanked everyone who attended, helped out and donated.

Funds raised from the event will be given to Macmillan Cancer Trust.

Mr Mayes said: “We got exceptionally lucky with the weather, which only made the day that much better.

“The event was well-attended, with ages ranging from children to the elderly and everyone had a great time.

“The kitchen alone raised about £900 selling hotdogs and burgers and the raffle brought in about £1,400. It was a fantastic result.

“We travelled slowly through the villages to allow people to enjoy the show and even stopped at the Hartest Crown for a drink.

“There were a number of comments asking us to make it an annual event, so we’re hoping to be back next year.”

Mr Ford said about 20 people helped out in the kitchens and with the raffle and auction.

In addition to the convoy, people could pay to enter and get their photo taken with the tractors.

Various items, including tickets to the Newmarket races, a four-yard skip and a guided flight at Rattlesden Airfield, were auctioned off.