Tractor heritage, news and features

Spreading festive cheer

The Vintage Tractor Ploughing Day takes place on Sunday 2 January at Manor Farm, Horsford, Norwich from 10am-2pm. Open to the public, all sorts of machines will take part as well as the opportunity to both watch and have a go at horse ploughing.  All entry money and proceeds from the raffle will go to the charity also.

The Society is raising money for the charity after one of their member’s family used its ‘Home from Home’, Acorn House in Cambridge.

Angie Fisher said: “My son Lewie was rushed to Addenbrooke’s Hospital with a brain tumour, in March 2010. He underwent operations and treatment including six weeks of radiotherapy and chemotherapy. This time, as you can imagine, was very traumatic, confusing and emotional and to add to it we were not near home. The Sick Children's Trust’s Acorn House came to our aid. Lewie's dad was able to stay with Lewie and myself, and his brothers were able to come to stay at weekends, as well as allowing family visits.

“It also made a really essential transition from hospital, to Acorn House, to home after Lewie had had his main operation. He was able to come home, but we were all worried as he needed constant help, and Acorn House gave us the space to adjust and make us feel more at ease as the hospital was nearby. It was a real ‘Home from Home’, a calm area where we could all get together and be a family sharing much needed time and cuddles!  Lewie still needs treatment and Acorn House still supports the family, playing an important part in our family life.”

Secretary Robert Callaby added: “This year we decided to raise money for The Sick Children’s Trust’s Acorn House as one of our members, Clive Slaughter, had a grandson who had suffered from a brain tumour. He was in Addenbrooke’s Hospital for an extended period and the parents were so impressed with the help they received that from the charity we took up their recommendation.

“So far we’ve had a members’ day back in November and are now heading for our Christmas charity fun day which should be a brilliant family fun filled day for all. We’ve managed to raise more than £400 so far and are hoping to top the £1000 after this event. A special thanks must go to Drayton Farms who allowed us to host the event there on their land.”

Entry for participants in the event is £8, by form obtainable from Robert Callaby at 01485 571346 or arcobob@posmail.co.uk

Any raffle prizes will also be gratefully received. Please contact Jane Raynes on 01362 684419. For further information about the Sick Children’s Trust visit www.sickchildrenstrust.org