Vintage turnout for Keel’s tractor run

ONE of the best examples of goodwill and solidarity in the county happened at Keel, Castlemaine on Sunday last where a convoy of tractors – great and small, vintage and modern – snaked its way through the countryside to raise money for the Palliative Care Unit and Kerry/Cork Health Link Bus.

The late James Ashe died of cancer a few years ago, but his memory is richly honoured every year thanks to the ‘James Ashe Memorial Tractor Run’.

James was a much-loved member of his community, as was evidenced by the large turnout of tractors from all over Kerry and beyond. This is the fifth year of the tractor run, which continues to raise money for a worthy cause. James himself was heavily involved in raising money for the Palliative Care Unit – a legacy which has continued in his memory to the present day.

“James would travel the length and breadth of the county on his Honda 50, selling tickets to raise money for palliative care,” said his brother, Francis.

“It’s very rewarding raising money for such a good cause. Everyone enjoys it, especially the children. It’s a unique sight. I want to thank all the marshals and people who gave up their day to go around with buckets to gather money.

“James was a close friend of the Anvil Bar, and we thank them for putting on refreshments. The Sheehan family from Killorglin also supplied sandwiches, teas and coffees. A huge thanks is owed to all of these people,” Francis added.

Photos by Joe Hanley Hundreds of tractors took part in the James Ashe Memorial Tractor run in aid of the Pallaitive Care Unit at UHK. The tractors left from The Anvil Bar, Boolteens, on Sunday morning.

Members of the James Ashe family at the James Ashes Memorial Tractor Run: Siobhan O’Donoghue, Stephen O’Connor, John Kerins, Margaret Ashe, Conor Ashe, Shane Ashe, Francis Ashe, Elizabeth Ryle O’Connor.

Photos by Joe Hanley ABOVE: Ready to take part in the James Ashe Memorial Tractor Run from The Anvil Bar in Boolteens, Keel, were Anne Marie, Sarah and Sharon Sheehan. RIGHT: Thumbs up by children who travelled with their parents to watch the James Ashe Memorial Tractor Run on Sunday.

Taking part in the James Ashe memorial Tractor Run from The Anvil Bar, Boolteens, on Sunday were Mike Corkery, Tom O’Sullivan, Connie Naughton, John O’Connor and Mary Naughton.

RIGHT: Liz Ryle O’Connor, Mary Shanahan and Andrea O’Donoghue collecting on the day ahead of the run.