When Mary Ann Suddes passed away, her family agreed they wanted to do something special to commemorate her life, though at the time no one was quite sure what that would be. Then COVID arrived, and any plans were put on hold.
It was Ian who eventually suggested the idea of a tractor push. Coming from a farming background, the family immediately warmed to it. In the later stages of Ann’s life, she had been cared for by Willow Burn Hospice, and the family had been deeply appreciative of the support she received. It therefore felt only right that the tractor push would become a charity event, with all funds raised going to the hospice.
On a beautiful spring day—exactly seven years after Ann’s passing—the tractor push began at West Newbiggen Farm. The route took them down to Lanchester and, after a well-earned breather, up a steep climb to Willow Burn at Maiden Law. The tractor itself, a 1960s Fordson Dexta, held special significance. It had once belonged to their father and had been passed down through generations, making it all the more fitting that it would be pushed on the day and eventually sold, with all proceeds donated to Willow Burn Hospice.
The push began with an easy downhill stretch into the village, led by the tractor and followed by friends of the family—some driving vintage tractors of their own. At the wheel was Chloe Suddes, carefully steering and braking when needed, with Dakota perched happily on her knee, clearly enjoying every moment.
As the procession made its way along, people gathered at the roadside, and by the time they reached the village, a sizeable crowd had assembled to welcome them. After a short refreshment break, they set off again in a lively, almost carnival-like atmosphere, heading towards the most challenging part of the journey: the climb up Maiden Law bank.
Although small in size, the Fordson tractor still weighs around a ton. What initially seemed a daunting task was made far easier by the team of volunteer pushers and pullers, who kept it moving uphill at a brisk walking pace.
Upon entering the estate where Willow Burn is located, immediate family members took over. Ian, Peter, Bobby, and Tony provided the power, while Anne took charge of steering. As they arrived at the hospice, they were met by a crowd—including a rather large rabbit—who applauded the effort and thanked the Suddes family for their charitable contribution.
I’m sure Ann would have been delighted by the effort of all who took part and funds raised from the sale of the tractor, along with proceeds from a raffle, will be presented once the final total is confirmed.
