Mali’s Memorial Tractor Run was organised by his mum Lisa, grandmother Sue, and Mali’s close friends Nathan Fisher, Sam Summerfield, Ritchie Jollow, Jake Hambley and Ruben Cawsey.
They chose to honour Mali with this unique event as a fitting tribute to the 18-year-old from Bradworthy, who had a passion for tractors. As well as working as an agricultural engineer at MSW Engineering, based in nearby Shebbear, Mali (pictured below) owned a few tractors himself.
The tractor run followed a route of roughly 21 miles, covering several places that were close to Mali’s heart and bringing together the community to remember and raise money.
It started off at Kivells Livestock Market in Holsworthy, where Mali could often be found attending machinery sales and auctions. Leading the procession was Mali’s much-loved boss, Michael Worth, who drove a large MSW Engineering work van.
Around 83 tractors followed along the route – many of them vintage machines – including Mali’s classic Fordson Dexta and John Deere tractors, both driven by close friends. Many people gathered at the roadside to watch the amazing convoy pass on its journey.
The event rounded off in Bradworthy Square, where supporters gathered at Mali’s local pub, the Bradworthy Inn. Local businesses had donated more than 100 prizes, which were raffled off to add to the fundraising total.
Mali’s friend Nathan said: "Because Mali was an agricultural engineer constantly working on tractors, everyone being in a tractor on the day was a nice touch for remembrance."
Mali’s mum Lisa (far left), Brake’s Lisa Stockley (third left), Mali’s grandmother Sue (far right) with Mali’s friends.
Reflecting on the event celebrating her beloved son’s life, Mali’s mum Lisa Dubois said: “We feel it is an honour that Mali can do so much good even though he isn't here with us. We hope the lads and Mali realise and are very proud of what they achieved that day.”
Altogether Mali's Memorial Tractor Run raised £6,220, which was split between Brake and The Devon Air Ambulance.
Brake’s National Road Victim Service southwest regional caseworker, Lisa Stockley, went along to support the tractor run in April and to accept a cheque for £3,110 for Brake.
A huge thank you goes out to Mali’s mum Lisa, grandmother Sue, and his friends Nathan, Sam, Ritchie, Jake and Ruben.
