NEWRY TRACTOR RUN O' IRELAND
in aid of the Hospice
PRESS RELEASE
TRACTOR DRIVE FOR HOSPICE
Derek Sneddon of Latt, Jerrettspass is driving a tractor around Ireland in aid of Southern Area Hospice Services.
The tractor is a late 1970's Classic International 533SA built in France and used by its original owner for personal transport. It has been lovingly restored by Derek and William Auterson for his 1000 mile, 10 day journey which starts on 16th July 2003. However take note the tractor has a top speed of just 15 miles per hour!
The organisation of collecting funds is being carried out by a small committee connected to Newry Masonic Social Club. Every Masonic Lodge has been contacted for donations and funds are flowing in.
Sponsorship has also been received from a number of businesses in the Southern Area, a group will follow the tractor and collect donations along the ten-day route. There are already invitations to meet with other Masonic Lodges throughout Ireland. The Mayor of Galway is to meet with the fundraisers in person and a Masonic Lodge in Cork has offered a number of ways in which they will assist the group.
On 16 July 2003, Derek and his team will set off from Newry on their intrepid journey wich is scheduled to last 11 days.
Team secretary Mr Robert Kelly explains:
"The Masonic Order in Newry has supported the Hospice for many years but this is the largest fund-raising event they have attempted. They feel it is a small return for the expert and loving care that many of their members and families experienced."
Speaking on behalf of the Hospice, Fiona Stephens, Regional Development Officer said:
"This is a wonderful idea which has been in the planning stages for many months now. We are indeed delight ed that Derek and his local Masonic Social Club are undertaking such a huge fundraising event - much planning and investigation has gone into this and we wish them all a very safe and peaceful journey and of course a successful one!
"Southern Area Hospice Services cares for people with terminal illness living in the Southern Health and Social Services Board area of Northern Ireland, from Fivemiletown to Dromore, Newry to Portadown, and Dungannon to Castlewellan. We are a registered charity and are totally dependent on the support of the local community to provide our wide range of care and support services. Without the support of groups like this we would be unable to continue our work. If you would like to support this event please do not hesitate to contact the Hospice on 028 3025 1333 and we will be delighted to help."
Money can be paid directly into "Newry Masonic Social Club - Hospice Account" 23834468 Northern Bank, Banbridge Sort Code 95-02-46 or by post to
Tractor Run O' Ireland
c/o 32 Elmwood Park
Newry
N Ireland
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