I know this subject is in the limelight a lot, but mental health is a serious issue in the farming community.

An ex-employee of mine, Taron Lee, and a farming friend James Casswell along with a number of other farmers are all coming together for a remarkable venture in a bid to continue to raise much-needed awareness regarding mental health challenges in the agricultural sector.

See also: JCB Fastrac and Land Rover Defender in major charity runs

About the author

Mark Stubbs

Mark Stubbs manages his 700ha family arable farm in Lincolnshire, in partnership with his parents. The farm grows wheat, malting barley, oilseed rape, linseed and cover crops. Mark won the highest yielding winter wheat crop in this year’s YEN awards.

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They are doing this by driving a JCB Fastrac tractor around the whole of the UK Coastline, in a journey totalling 4,690 miles.

They will commence their epic journey on Monday 10 June at Cleethorpes seafront at 9am, and aim to finish at the Lincolnshire Showground on Wednesday 19 June.

This carefully planned two-year endeavour has now taken on a heartfelt dimension, as it also commemorates a local young farmer whose tragic loss earlier this year has resonated deeply within the farming community.

The challenge will see the team driving round-the-clock for eight days, with stops only for refuelling and driver changes.

The tractor’s tank lasts for 18 hours, ensuring long stretches between refuelling stops.

An extra day has been incorporated into their itinerary to account for any unexpected issues, with the aim of returning in time for the Lincolnshire Show.

The tractor, specially decorated for the occasion, will be a highlight of the event.

Followers can track the tractor’s progress live through the “Back British Farming & Mental Health” Facebook page and make donations via JustGiving.

Proceeds from the event will support the Yellow Wellies Mind Your Head campaign, which promotes mental health awareness in agriculture.

The coastal run, despite being a logistical challenge to organise, is an opportunity for communities to show support, raise awareness, and contribute to the cause.

Taron, who has previously raised significant funds for Cancer Research UK and has personal experience with mental health struggles, hopes for widespread participation and support along the route.

The event is not just a test of endurance, but a meaningful tribute to a life that touched many and a call to action for mental health awareness in the farming community.