A CONVOY of vintage tractors will be making its way around Gloucestershire this weekend, in tribute to a much loved wife, mother and grandmother. 

The Standish Spring Tractor Run is being held on Saturday, to celebrate the life of Ruth Smith, who died last year aged 85.

The event is a fundraiser for the Alzheimer’s Society, which provided support to Ruth and her family.

Ruth's 17-year-old grandson, Sebastian Moore wanted to do something in memory of his grandmother and, as the family have been part of the Standish farming community for many years, he came up with the idea of the tractor run.

The tractors will be giving a celebratory beep of their horns for Ruth as they pass Standish church, where she is buried.

"Mum would've absolutely loved that," said Ruth's daughter, Katie.

The tractors will be meeting in the field opposite Devonia Cottage in Standish Lane from 10.30am, and will be departing in staggered groups of 10 from 11.30am onwards. 

Parking will be available and bacon rolls and tea/coffee will be on sale.

People will be able to see the convoy from vantage points along the route.

The convoy will be taking an 18 mile route, going past Standish Church and then via the B4008 through Stonehouse, Bridgend, Stanley Downton, Frocester, Eastington, Claypits, then via the A38 to Frampton on Severn where there will be a “rest stop” for the convoy to re-group. 

The tractors will park up on Frampton Village Green from 12.15pm until the convoy is re-assembled.

There spectators are also welcome – with the opportunity to see the tractors up close and enjoy refreshments at The Bell.

Once reassembled the convoy will then make its way along the Severn through Saul, Upper Framilode, Epney and Moreton Valence, and then, via the A38, back to Devonia Cottage.

For further details email: thestandishtractorrun@gmail.com

The family are hoping to raise £1,500 for the Alzheimer's Society.

To make a donation visit: justgiving.com/fundraising/standishtractorrun