The fifth annual Steam Rally for the Hospice of St Francis was held in Potten End this weekend with the sunshine and warm weather drawing record-breaking crowds.
The family day out, starting with a tractor-trailer ride from the car park into the showground, provided something for everyone with special events taking place all through the day ranging from vintage tractors trying to balance on a metal see-saw, demonstrations of archery through the ages, heavy horses, the majestic steam engines, vintage cars, commercial lorries and military vehicles, vintage motor bikes and a hot air balloon demonstration.
Roslyn Walker the famous escapologist amazed the crowds with a death defying escape and helped kids try out their circus skills.
Harvey the Clown also entertained the children and even Thomas the Tank Engine made a special visit.
The market stalls, stationary engines, Jazz Band and ringside refreshments, provided even more for people to enjoy throughout the weekend.
Dawn Bunker, one of the major organisers of the event was delighted with the weekend.
She said: ”We are over the moon. It was wonderful and the weather was fantastic. We had more than 6000 people this year which was considerably more than last year. We think we’ve raised a staggering amount but we’re not able to confirm it at the moment because we are still counting the pennies but watch this space!
”It was bigger than last year, everyone was happy, the side-stalls, the people - everyone went away happy which for us is brilliant. We’d like to say thank you for the superb support from Sainsbury’s at Chesham, everyone at the Hospice, attendance from people from all over the UK even as far as Northern Ireland and everyone who gave their time and effort.”
Claire de Silva, spokesperson for the Hospice of St Francis said: ”We are thrilled that the event had such a fantastic turn out this year and everyone dug deep and gave generously. There was a brilliant atmosphere and we are so grateful to everyone who came along. The money raised from the weekend ensures the hospice can continue to reach hundreds of local people, caring for them and their famillies through difficult times. We couldn’t do it without your support.”
Over the past four years the Dacorum Steam and Machinery Preservation Group, their families and friends have raised over £37,000 for the Hospice of St Francis.
Berkhamsted based Hospice of St Francis is the only inpatient unit with special facilities that allow patients to be cared for 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
