Farm mechanics drive tractors across the UK to raise mental health awareness

Three farm mechanics plan a cross country trek on vintage tractors from John O Groats to Lands End to fund a Dorset youth mental health charity.

Farm mechanics drive tractors across the UK to raise mental health awareness

Three farm mechanics will drive vintage tractors on an 800 mile trek from John O Groats to Lands End to raise funds for Will Does, a Dorset charity supporting young people with mental health challenges. The team, led by 23 year old Billy Kitcher from Chideock, will be joined by friends Bill Parsons and Jack Macey from Wootton Fitzpaine. They expect to start on September 8 and travel across Britain to complete the challenge.

Will Does was set up in memory of 14 year old William Paddy and focuses on early help for young people. The project aims to spark conversations in farming communities where access to mental health support can be uneven.

The ride blends rural life with public health advocacy, using a familiar farming symbol to reach audiences beyond farm gates. It highlights how small, community driven efforts can prompt broader discussions about mental health in rural areas. If the event gains traction, it could connect donors with practical support while reminding local leaders that rural mental health needs sustained attention beyond single fundraisers.

Highlights

The road ahead may be long, but the conversation it starts could travel farther.