Record-breaking year for Trumpton tour

Trumpton committee member and Melton firefighter Scott Smith said: “We had the usual fire call interruptions and breakdowns but still managed to achieve this fantastic amount thanks to people’s generosity.

“We are now looking for beneficiaries, asking local good causes, groups and worthy individuals to write in stating why they or someone they know deserve the money.”

Firefighters along with family, friends and volunteers hit the streets with the engine every night for two weeks to raise funds.

On the last night before Christmas residents in Asfordby were facing disappointment after the engine broke down at the bottom of Welby Lane in Melton.

But firefighters pushed Trumpton back to the fire station and fireman Kev Fryer supplied his jeep as a reserve for the engine, with Santa getting on the back, before heading back to Asfordby so the villagers there didn’t miss out on the festive fun and meaning the engine could make the final push towards its record-breaking fundraising total.

The Trumpton committee would like thank Kev and all the other individuals and businesses who helped with this year’s tour. Thanks go to:

l B&Q – for discounted paint for Trumpton’s makeover this year

l EMP (accident repair centre) – who will be carrying out some work on Trumpton in the new year

l Hunt & Swain – for a great deal on the wood used for Trumpton’s revamp

l John Wyles – the chippie who remade Trumpton this year

l Halfords (Chris Johnson) - for a new radio and speakers

l Digital Deadline – wrapping of Trumpton and graphics

l Friends and Families of Melton Mowbray Fire Station for all the collecting

Any local charities, groups or individuals who’d like to suggest a potential beneficiary can send letters to: The Trumpton Committee, Melton Fire Station, Nottingham Road, Melton, LE13 2NP. Please include your name, address and contact numbers.

All applications must be received by no later than 6pm on January 31.

Successful applicants will be invited to attend a presentation night later this year.