Chideock mechanic Billy Kitcher is driving 900 miles from John O’Groats to Land’s End in his vintage tractor to raise money for #Willdoes.
While most people are planning a more relaxing summer, this 23-year-old will be trundling from top to bottom of the country in his 1954 Fordson Major tractor, which has no cab and a top speed of 22mph – leaving Billy exposed to the elements and, undoubtedly, to a very sore bottom.
Billy’s two-week journey starts on September 8, and he is planning to camp or ‘go rough’ most nights – although he says he will be open to any offers of hospitality during his challenge.
Billy said: “I woke up one morning and thought, ‘Why not?’ I’ve got two weeks off work, I can’t afford to go abroad, and I’ve always wanted to see more of Scotland. So, I figured, if I’m going to do something, I might as well do it for a good cause.”
Billy’s tractor, a classic of British farming heritage, averages just 18mph, making it more of a slow-motion adventure than a race.
“I take part in the Christmas tractor run every year for #Willdoes,” he said.
“I know people who struggle with mental health, and it’s something really close to my heart.”
Billy, whose grandparents were farmers, and has also spent time working on farms, is all too aware of the challenges the rural community faces.
A recent survey by the Farm Safety Foundation found that 94% of farmers consider poor mental health to be the biggest issue in the industry today.
He’s also hoping his journey might catch the attention of Jeremy Clarkson, whose recent work has brought national focus to the mental health crisis in agriculture.
#Willdoes is dedicated to the memory of William Paddy, a sporty, charismatic child with a cheeky smile who lived in Swanage, whose life sadly ended early at 14. Will’s mother Les set up #Willdoes to help young people who may be finding life tough and struggling to cope with daily life.
n Billy is currently seeking business sponsors, fuel support, and donations to help fund his journey and raise money for #Willdoes.
You can support him at his justgiving.com/page/bill-kitcher