Ballymena town centre will host the annual Santa Tractor Run on Saturday 5 December. The event raises funds for the Northern Ireland Children’s Hospice.

Organisers expect a record number of vehicles, including tractors and other types, decorated with Christmas lights. The illuminated procession will travel through the town in the evening.

The event is run by Ballymena Business Improvement District (BID) and the Traction Engine Club of Ulster (TECU) and Friends. It brings together vehicle enthusiasts, families and spectators in support of the charity.

Vehicles will depart from the Livestock Market on Woodside Road at 5.15pm. The cavalcade is scheduled to reach Ballymena town centre at approximately 6pm.

The route includes Raceview Road, Broughshane Street, Church Street, Mill Street, Wellington Street, Ballymoney Street and Parkway, before returning to the starting point.

Vehicle registration opens at 3pm at the Market Yard on the day, with a £20 donation per vehicle. The donation includes a complimentary Christmas dinner and soft drink for the participant, provided by the Ringside Cafe from 3.30pm. Additional Christmas dinners are £10 per person, with children’s meals at £5 for those aged 11 as stated by organisers.

Families are encouraged to arrive earlier to enjoy shops and eateries, including the Fairhill Shopping Centre, Tower Centre, the newly opened Primark and independent retailers, before the evening spectacle.

Organisers thanked those preparing and decorating vehicles and expressed hope for favourable weather and public support.