Who you gonna call? Sci-fi fanatics have become un-boo-lievable fundraisers by using their passion for cult classic Ghostbusters to support East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH). The Norfolk Ghostbusters are a group of die-hard film fans who dress as characters from the blockbuster and attend comic book conventions. They have bucket collections for EACH, as well as using banners, flags and balloons to raise awareness of the charity, which supports families and cares for children and young people with life-threatening conditions. The group have been raising funds throughout the year and recently delivered a cheque for £379 to The Nook, in Framingham Earl, where they met EACH community fundraising assistant Megan Kemp. “It’s been great fun, getting in the spirit and combining our passion for the film with fundraising for EACH,” said founding member Anthony Shellard. “I remember being at a convention once and seeing the amount of money people were making selling all kinds of things. It made me think that it would be amazing to have some fun while at the same time raising funds for a worthy cause. “We wanted to support a charity we all believe in and that’s when we came across EACH. “It’s perfect because it helps families and children across Norfolk. “Raising funds and spreading awareness is our way of giving something back for the incredible work it does.” The Norfolk Ghostbusters consist of Anthony, Carl Smith, Kim and Ross Wainwright, Darren Porter, Ian Rudd and Aaron Storey. Wives, children and other family members also get involved and this year the group have attended ‘comic-cons’ in Great Yarmouth, Norwich, Ipswich, Colchester and London, as well as carrying out a street collection in Great Yarmouth. Since delivering their cheque they have raised an additional £81 and the group have already said they will continue supporting EACH in 2023. “I’ve always been a massive Ghostbusters fan and love all science-fiction, especially from the 1980s,” added construction manager Anthony, who lives in Caister-on-Sea with wife Michelle and children Miles, seven, and Millie, five. “I built a full-size Dalek and Tardis for my wedding and then started making Ghostbusters props, which led to starting the Norfolk Ghostbusters along with Super Power Parties. “We started getting invited along to birthday parties, weddings and other events and people have wanted photos for all different occasions. “Doing this is a way of putting smiles on faces, as well as raising money. “In addition to our bucket collections, people can also donate directly to the charity via our Facebook page.” Megan said: “It was lovely meeting up with the Norfolk Ghostbusters. “They dressed in their amazing costumes for our cheque presentation and have done such an amazing job supporting us and raising funds throughout the year. “We’re extremely grateful and it’s great knowing they plan to continue supporting us next year, too.” Pictured from left to right in the photo at The Nook are Kim, Ian, Darren, Anthony, Ross, Carl and Aaron. Aaron’s children Freddie and Robyn also joined them on the day. Image credits EACH
