Tractor run for ‘gentle giant’ killed in farm accident

A tractor road run and fun day in memory of a hugely popular member of the farming community has raised more than £20,000.

More than 200 tractors took to the roads in Carmarthenshire on Sunday (21 September) as part of a fundraiser for Jonathan Evans.

The 43-year-old father-of-two was killed in a telehandler accident on his farm in Kidwelly in July.

See also: Read the latest news on farm health and safety

Mr Evans, known as “Butty” to his friends, was also a talented rugby player, who captained Ferryside RFC for two years.

Hundreds of friends, family and members of the public turned out for the fundraiser to celebrate Mr Evans’ life.

The event was held at Muddlescwm Farm in Kidwelly. So far, more than £20,000 has been raised thanks to a raffle and an auction.

A host of top prizes were offered in the auction, including holidays to Porthmadog, Devon and Brittany, a rugby training top signed by the Wales’ 2008 squad and an official Welsh international team rugby ball signed by Leigh Halfpenny.

Local companies also donated two pig roasts, a marquee and a temporary stage, which local pop acts used to perform songs in Mr Evans’ memory.

After the gathering, a huge convoy of tractors drove from Muddlescwm Farm, where Mr Evans grew up and learned how to farm, to Ferryside rugby club.

Lifelong friend Peter “Jacko” Huw Thomas said: “Jonathan was a gentle giant – such a kind-hearted fellow.

“He loved his tractors. He was brought up on the farm and was fantastic with tractors.

“I remember he would welcome you into Ferryside rugby club and he would turn around and talk to you about the latest things he was doing with tractors.

“He was just a very pleasant bloke.”

The money raised from the event would go towards two charities – the breast care unit at the Prince Philip Hospital and the Huntington’s Disease Association.

Mr Evans’ widow, Kay Evans, who is receiving treatment for breast cancer, said she and her family had been “overwhelmed by everyone’s support”.

“The support from friends, family and the communities around here has been incredible,” she added.

“He loved the tractors and the farming. To see 200 tractors out here was heart-wrenching, really. It was a hard day, but a very proud day as well.”

Ms Evans, who is recovering from chempotherapy, said her husband was a “fantastic father” and a “gentle giant, who would do everything for anybody”.

“He was my rock,” she added, choking back tears. “When I was first diagnosed with cancer, he used to be the one who would calm me down and help me with all the treatment.

“I can’t believe that he wasn’t here to see me have my final treatment. But my family and friends have been absolutely amazing. I cannot thank them enough. They have not left my side.”

To donate money in memory of Mr Evans, please contact Peter Morris on 07774 607 560 or 01994 448 706 or email Heulwen.Morris@virgin.net

Pictures courtesy of Adrian Davies Photography