Reuben Owen Faces Major Setback During 21st Birthday Tractor Challenge on Life in the Dales

In the latest episode of Channel 5’s Life in the Dales, Reuben Owen’s 21st birthday celebration took an unexpected turn as his ambitious tractor journey was plagued by mechanical issues and setbacks.

Reuben, a young entrepreneur and beloved star of the series, set out with friends on a scenic but challenging 100-mile road trip from Swaledale to Whitby, using vintage tractors to mark the special occasion. However, the adventure quickly hit trouble when Reuben’s 60-year-old tractor began overheating and leaking water on one of Britain’s steepest hills, forcing a sudden halt. With a friend coming to his aid off-road, Reuben candidly admitted, “It’s not gone well for the old lass, I think this could be her final—“ but was interrupted by his mate Tommy, who optimistically insisted, “I hope not! You might’ve killed it on its first run out. She was a good tractor.”

A narrator on the show described this as a “disastrous setback” on just day two, casting doubt on whether Reuben would make it in time for his own beach party. After being towed up the hill, Reuben attempted to cool down the struggling engine before resuming the journey.

Yet more challenges awaited when another mechanical failure emerged in the form of an oil leak caused by a faulty head gasket. Reuben remarked, “That is not good, we’re so close to the end as well.” Undeterred, Reuben, Tommy, and his girlfriend Jessica swiftly replaced the gasket in a pub car park, showcasing impressive teamwork.

Despite the rocky ride, the group finally reached Whitby, where they enjoyed driving their tractors along the beach and celebrated with classic fish and chips. To cap off a memorable day, Jessica surprised Reuben with a birthday cake featuring his image—though he couldn’t resist teasing, “What an awful picture!”

This episode of Life in the Dales highlighted not only the scenic beauty of the Yorkshire Dales and coast but also the determination and camaraderie behind Reuben Owen’s milestone celebration, proving that even setbacks can’t dampen the spirit of adventure.