An annual tractor run in memory of a 14-year-old who took his own life will be passing through Dorset villages on Sunday, December 10.

The WillDoes Tractor Run will see nearly 100 parading tractors adorned with Christmas lights touring through villages, raising money to help the charity its mission of promoting physical and mental well-being in young people.

The charity was set up in memory of Dorset teenager William Paddy who sadly took his life on May 29, 2019, aged just 14.

His mother, Lesley Paddy, said: “Everything Will did he always wrote “Will does” and that’s where the name came from. He was very active, outgoing and was loved by a lot of people. But it became apparent to me there were young people who didn’t have the opportunities he had.

“We set up the charity to get them out there and help them connect and engage socially through sports and other activities.”

This will be the charity’s third annual tractor run and Lesley highlights its importance in bringing Dorset’s young farmer community together.

Bournemouth Echo:

“We wanted to engage with young farmers because a lot of them are working on their own and have their own mental health issues. It’s important to address those and support them.

“It’ll be lovely to go through the villages, see all the young people together and the places lit up. It’ll be a nice start to the festive season.”

Amongst those young people in attendance this year will be Bryony Vaughan who is also organising the event.

She said: “This charity means an awful lot to me and the community as it gives young people a place to turn to for support. Farming has recently been getting the publicity it needs for its effect on mental health and wellbeing and I feel we need to keep the focus on this industry from young to old.

“Mental health gets pushed aside due to the hours and work load we all go through, but it is staggering how many people have reached out recently for help and guidance since #willdoes has been doing this run.”

Those taking part are asked to meet at 165- 179 Roke Road, Milbourne St. Andrew, on Sunday, December 10 from 2:30pm with last entries at 3:30pm. There is a £10 donation per tractor which can be given on the day via cash or card payment.

From 4:30pm, the convoy will then embark on a two-hour journey encompassing Bere Regis, Dorchester, Broadmayne and surrounding villages.

There will also be refreshments, a bar and a prize for the best-decorated tractor up for grabs.

More details about the route can be found on the charity website.