UP to 100 tractors, many built more than half a century ago, will be taking to the roads in Herefordshire later this month.

A giant tractor marathon is being organised by Hereford Lions Club to raise money for its community work, including a free holiday home at Burnhamon- Sea and a transport service for the elderly and disabled.

The public is being urged to turn out and support the parade, which is expected to provide the biggest sight of vintage tractors on the move ever seen in Herefordshire.

Some of the oldest tractors in the county will be taking part and their owners will drive them on a 25-mile route, much of it off-road, taking in Mordiford, Checkley, Woolhope, Marcle Ridge and Brockhampton.

The event takes place on Sunday, May 28, starting at White Hall Farm in Hampton Bishop at 9.30am and the tractors will return there later in the day. A lunch break will be taken at Fownhope.

Organising the event is Lions Club member Mike Hughes, who spent his working life selling tractors. He will be leading the spectacular parade driving his own restored 1957 Massey Ferguson and hopes that just about every tractor ever built will be represented.

“In such a major farming county as Herefordshire, it is fitting to stage an event which showcases the tractors upon which every farm relies.

“It will be an opportunity to see how the tractor has developed from the 1920s up to the present day. It will be a spectacular display and I hope the public will turn out along the route to see it,” said Mr Hughes.

Owners interested in entering can call him on 07801 037098.