PICTURES: Crofters' convoy of tractors trundles across Ross for epic NHS fundraiser
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Seven hardy tractor enthusiasts took to the road last Saturday for an epic 122-mile tour around Ross and Sutherland to raise funds for Raigmore Hospital.
The Crofters’ Convoy started at Loch Ussie and headed north over the Struy on their route which took in Ardgay, Strath Oykel, Ledmore, Ullapool and Inchbae.
To keep the drivers going, support crew Kris and Sanders Gibson rustled up a half-way pit-stop, and at the end of the day the whole team was treated to a well-earned hearty supper and live music at the Inchbae Lodge Inn.
Tractors involved in the run out ranged in age from a 1962 Massey Ferguson 35 to a 1978 Ford 3,600. The vintage vehicles have been lovingly restored by their owners John Sinclair, Jim Burnett, Bob McNicol and Sandy Cormack.
Kathryn Macpherson, who supported the event, said: "With a maximum speed of 15mph, it was hardly The Fast and The Furious however the slow and steady Magnificent Seven completed the trip in a very respectable 11 hours.
"The event was to thank Raigmore and the NHS Highland staff for supporting everyone through these particularly challenging times.
"Donations to Highland Health Board Endowment Funds, which provide additional comforts and amenities to make a difference for patients and staff are welcomed and can be made on the Crofters' Convoy JustGiving web page."
The full vintage line up included Michael Stewart on Jimmy Burnett’s Ford 3600, Jimmy Burnett on his Ford 3000, Sandy Cormack on his Ford 4100, Bob McNicol on his Ford Super Major, Donald Burnett on Jimmy Burnett’s Ford 5000, Johnnie Macpherson on John Sinclair’s Massey Ferguson 35 and John Sinclair on his Massey Ferguson 65.
Organiser Rachael Burnett said: “ The run went extremely well.
"The drivers were a bit sore and stiff by the time they arrived at the lodge but they all had a great day and the weather was on their side. They can’t wait to do their next run, which is already getting organised.”
Donations can be made at https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/rachael-burnett1
PICTURES: Convoy turns heads across Ross
