Festive tractor parade held in memory of teenager

Farmers have taken part in a parade of 78 tractors, decorated in Christmas lights, to raise money for a youth mental health charity.

On Sunday, the #Willdoes charity hosted its third annual festive tractor run across Dorset villages.

It was set up in memory of William Paddy who took his own life, aged 14.

His mother, Lesley, said he would have "absolutely loved" the event.

The convoy of bright tractors departed Milborne St Andrew at 16:30 GMT and passed through 12 towns and villages.

The event aimed to help raise awareness for the charity's mission to promote physical and mental well-being in young people.

Ms Paddy said: "In the farming community there's lots of mental health issues because a lot of young farmers work alone, so it can be quite isolating at times."

She added: "It's about spreading awareness."

Tractors less than 2.45m (8ft) wide can be driven from the age of 16 so many young people took part in the parade, Ms Paddy said.

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