Young farmer honoured in UK-spanning tractor relay

A mental health campaign in memory of young farmer Len Eadon, who took his own life on New Year’s Day 2022, is gearing up for the next fundraising challenge with a tractor run from John O’Groats to Land’s End.

Called “Len’s Light”, the campaign has already raised £90,000 for charity, and will see supporters taking part in a nationwide tractor relay to highlight mental health in agriculture, and show that no one should feel alone in rural communities.

See also: Wool and Wellness campaign promotes mental health in farming

The lead tractor in the procession will carry Len’s Light, a front-mounted beacon, which will be unveiled at the Kenilworth Agricultural Show on 3 June.

Andy Eadon, Len’s father, said: “Our goal has always been to leave a legacy for Len, and we hope that Len’s Light will be more than an incredible spectacle, but prompt a wider, ongoing conversation around mental health in agriculture and show that no one has to be alone or isolated.

“If we can stop one family going through what we did and are continuing to go through, then it will have been worth it.

“The appetite for change at all levels, from educators to policymakers and people working in the farming industry, is evident and we are proud to be kicking off the next phase of our mission with our incredible partners and supporters at this year’s Kenilworth Show.”

This year’s show will also feature “Len’s Village”, where farmers can find out more about mental health support in agriculture, connect with others from the industry, and take part in competitions such as a sheep shearing contest, and pint drinking and pie eating challenges.