A BADSEY mum has given her heartfelt appreciation to the community after Vale groups and businesses rallied together to raise more than £10,000 for a minibus to transport disabled children to and from her weekly discos.
Tracey Hemming, who hosts ‘Freedom Discos’ at Badsey’s The Pub in a Club, secured the keys to the new wheelchair-adapted minibus on Friday, February 3, after spending the last six months raising money through fund-raising events and receiving donations.
Some of the businesses and community groups to get on board with the appeal included Growers United, who donated £2,000, Howdens Joinery and Mencap, who raised £500, Vale of Evesham Round Table, who donated £300, Bubbles launderette, who raised £50 and Go Faster Graphics in Hampton, who raised funds through a JustGiving page.
Ms Hemming launched the Freedom Discos back in March 2016, after being left disheartened following the closure of Evesham’s Marilyn’s nightclub disco for the disabled.
“I’m ecstatic. I never thought we would raise the funds to get a minibus in just six months. We’re only a small group, so I didn’t expect this much help. It really touches your heart,” said Ms Hemming.
“The children were so excited when they saw the minibus. They love singing on the bus to and from the discos,” she added.
Ms Hemming is hosting a celebration day on Friday, March 24 at The Pub in a Club from 2pm, where the children will thank the community for their support in getting the minibus. MP Nigel Huddleston will also be in attendance.
