Taking place outside Thrive Gym, the high-energy challenge saw 30 teams compete in the ultimate test of strength and teamwork. Children’s teams pulled a 4.5 tonne DAF XB, while adult teams tackled an 8-tonne DAF XF, hauling the trucks 40 metres in the fastest time possible.

This year’s Truck Pull was made even more special by the involvement of Lizz Davidson, a local mum from Cottam, Preston, who channelled deep personal experience into community action following the passing of her husband Nick, aged just 42, in March.

After receiving end-of-life care from St Catherine’s Hospice, Lizz vowed to honour Nick’s memory by supporting the cause that meant so much to her family. She rallied an incredible show of support from family, friends, and the wider school community her children are part of – including her three young children, Jack, Charlie, and Jessica, aged between four and nine – by forming seven teams to take part in the challenge.

Lizz said: “With the Truck Pull taking place on Father’s Day, I can’t imagine a more meaningful way to honour Nick’s memory. Following his stage-four diagnosis and a brave eight-week battle, St Catherine’s helped us create beautiful final memories – from organising a ‘date night’ to a special birthday tea for our son. Their kindness was extraordinary, and we’re proud to give something back to help other families in need.”

The event drew a strong crowd and competitive spirit, with the “4 Beards 1 Truck” team taking home the 2025 Truck Pull title.

Stuart Derbyshire, Linking Leyland event lead and vehicle finishing manager at Leyland Trucks, said: “We’re in awe of Lizz and her family’s dedication to supporting St Catherine’s and the energy she’s brought to this year’s Truck Pull.

“Events like this show the power of community, and we’re proud to play our part in helping raise awareness and funds for causes that touch so many lives. It’s been a joy to see so many people pulling together – quite literally – to make a difference.”

The Truck Pull Challenge is the first in a series of Linking Leyland events taking place throughout the summer, all raising money for four chosen charity partners: St Catherine’s Hospice, Derian House, Tender Nursing Care, and Rainbow Hub. Upcoming events include:

• 28 June: Cycling challenge featuring the 4 Climbs, a 60-mile Southport ride, and a 21-mile Guild Wheel route
• 6 July: 10K run through the scenic trails of Cuerden Valley Park
• 17 August: Superhero Walk from Leyland Trucks to Derian House

Registration remains open, and individuals and teams are encouraged to get involved and help make this year’s campaign the most impactful yet.

This year’s Truck Pull was proudly supported by Made Profiles, Way Foundation, Lancashire DAF, Carney, Atlas Copco, Schneider Electric, Jackmark, Thrive Gym, Expert Technoligies and Preston City Council.

Since its inception, Leyland Trucks’ Helping Hand charity arm – the organisers behind Linking Leyland – has raised more than £120,000, supporting local people through some of life’s toughest challenges, from serious illness to bereavement.

For more information on how to donate, register, or follow the campaign’s progress, visit the Leyland Trucks Helping Hand Facebook page: www.facebook.com/lthelpinghand/

As one of the UK’s most renowned manufacturing businesses, Leyland Trucks is proud to be both a key regional employer and a committed community supporter. The company manufactures the iconic DAF trucks, delivering vehicles that power businesses and fleets not only in the UK but around the world.