Friends restore Massey Ferguson 35x for 5,500-mile challenge along Britain’s coast
31st July 2025
A restored classic Massey Ferguson 35x from 1960s set off from the Black Isle for a 5,500-mile coastal Road Rage Cowboy challenge in support of five charities.
The plan to take on the trip was sparked when Marius Anderson was visiting his friend Martin Gill.
Martin had always been a lover of tractors, and Marius had spotted the 35x in his collection craving some TLC. Marius, a skilled mechanic, had previously worked for a local Massey Ferguson dealership.
Martin explained: “At the time, the Massey Ferguson 35x was in need of some attention, and Marius, ever the expert, saw an opportunity. He offered to fully renovate the tractor, if I covered the cost of parts, he would put in the hours.
“His only request was that we use the tractor for a charity run. One thing led to another, and suddenly we had a route mapped around the coast of Britain.”
The two friends embarked on the ambitious restoration project, painstakingly stripping the tractor down to its bare bones. Over the course of 18 months, with countless hours of work, they brought the machine back to life.
“It was hard work, but as the months passed, we could see the machine taking shape. Finally, after about 18 months and much dedication, the restoration was complete. The 35x had been road-tested and was running smoothly, ready for the challenge ahead.” Martin added.
Very personal challenge
Marius envisioned a journey that would trace the entirety of the British coastline, a route that, depending on how faithfully they stick to the shore, could reach 5,500 miles.
It is a huge undertaking, both logistically and financially, but the pair are determined. They have already raised over £15,000, which will be shared between five charities, and have secured generous fuel donations along the way to help reduce costs and maximise funds for the causes.
The charity run is about giving back to causes that have deep personal meaning for both Martin and Marius. After numerous discussions, they settled on five charities to support. They support RSABI, RABI, Cancer Research UK, the My Name’5 Dodie Foundation, and SANE.
Marius said: “These organisations have been significant in our lives—each one linked to a personal story, a family member, or a friend who had been touched by illness or hardship.”
RSABI offers free practical, financial, and emotional support, including counselling services, delivered quickly after receiving the initial enquiry. Its free, confidential support service is available 24 hours a day, every day of the year, by calling 0808 1234 555 or through a confidential webchat service, available on RSABI’s website.
To donate to the Road Rage Cowboy challenge, click here.
Read more rural news.
