Classic cars and vintage vehicles proved a real crowd-puller during a popular charity event in north Norfolk. Broads Motor Mania took place at the Sutton Staithe Hotel, in Stalham, and raised more than £1,800 for East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH). The event was organised by Sue and Rob Goreham, who set up Jessica’s Wish in 2014 in memory of their daughter, who was stillborn in 2006. Since then, they have been organising regular fundraising events for charities close to their hearts, including EACH. In 2019 they held an event to raise money for The Nook Appeal and the following year they staged a Valentine’s Ball, at Sutton Staithe Hotel. Broads Motor Mania, their latest brainchild, featured 130 vehicles, as well as drawing a bumper crowd of between 400 and 500 people. “This was our first car show and, although a steep learning curve, we were delighted with the way it went,” said Sue, who lives in Salhouse. “It was great to see people coming along and supporting us, paying to get in and also making generous donations. “We even had a park-and-ride service from Stalham High School, with regular coaches bringing visitors to the main event. “It was very busy and we were constantly on our feet, but I think the adrenaline kept us going. We got home that night and said ‘wow’. “It was worth all the hard work and we were indebted to so many people and businesses who helped make the day such a success. “Car shows are definitely the way forward and we have a date in the diary for next year (29th July, 2023). “We already have a sponsor and several stalls booked, plus bands, so are hoping it proves even bigger and better. “When things go well, it inspires us to carry on and we already have lots of ideas for the future. Things are going round in our heads all the time.” Sue and Rob initially started fundraising to buy cuddle cots – a cooling mattress that stop a baby’s body deteriorating, and can be placed in a cot or pram. It allows parents to stay with them for a period of time before their funeral, hugging them, dressing them and taking them for walks. Sue, 49, and Rob, 47, who have two sons, Joshua, 17, and Ethan, 14, bought one for the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital. “Anything to do with children is important to us,” said Sue. “They’re our world and we’re happy to do our bit to help. “EACH is such a special and important charity that does so much amazing work. I’m in awe. “We visited Quidenham (the charity’s former hospice) and have also been fortunate enough to be shown around The Nook, in Framingham Earl. “It’s an incredible place but also one that pulls on your heartstrings. I had to step outside at one point because I felt so emotional.” In addition to vintage vehicles, Broads Motor Mania also featured a children’s petting zoo, live bands, a beer festival and street food. It took place on 30th July. EACH supports families and cares for children and young people with life-threatening conditions across Norfolk and the rest of East Anglia. In addition to The Nook, it has two other hospices at Milton, near Cambridge, and The Treehouse, in Ipswich. Image credits EACH
