THIS tractor has helped a charity raise more than £8,000 to help train farming students to improve food production and their livelihoods.

The 1957 International B250 tractor was donated by West Somerset contractor and long-term supporter Paul Sawatzki to the Bicton Overseas Agricultural Trust (BOAT).

As part of its celebrations marking 25 years of providing training, BOAT organised a fundraising draw for the tractor - originally known as the “little red giant” - which was restored by Chris Jaworski and the engineering team from Bicton College.

It was the 14th tractor to be restored in this way and together they have raised almost £200,000 for BOAT.

The tractor was taken to shows throughout the South West and further afield, and draw tickets brought in more than £8,000, with the winning one bought by Matthew Collett from Venny Tedburn near Crediton.

BOAT has trained more than 130 people, mainly from developing countries in East and West Africa, and has identified a niche need for the training of managers to manage their businesses more effectively and efficiently.

Paul Sawatzki is pictured third from the right holding the winning ticket, with winner Matthew Collett on the tractor.