Fundraising event for making wreaths raises £5,000 for charity

A wreath-making charity event has successfully raised 5,000 in support of the Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) and the Motor Neurone Disease Association (MNDA). The event was organized by Nicola Pettit, 63, from Elloughton, East Yorkshire, who initiated the annual gathering five years ago alongside her daughter. Originally, Nicola planned a single session, but due to its growing popularity, she expanded this years event to include three sessions.

Nicola shared, "Im really passionate about bringing people together to raise money for charity while having fun and creating something that participants might have otherwise bought from a store." After the loss of her friend Margaret Lidsters husband to Motor Neurone Disease, Nicola and Margaret began collaborating on these events to raise funds specifically for MNDA.

Margaret, 59, explained her motivation, saying, "If I can help one family as we were helped, then Ive done my job." Her husband, David, was diagnosed with MND in October 2023 and passed away in August 2024. Margaret noted the rapid progression of the disease. She added, "Its wonderful to see so many people participating this year. In previous years, we held just one wreath-making session, but this year we managed to hold three. We could have easily organized more if time permitted." This year, the funds raised are also being directed towards the RDA in North Ferriby to purchase a mechanical horse for disabled riders.

Nicola emphasized, "I just want to give something back. If it helps, thats fantastic. As long as people enjoy it and want to keep coming, well continue hosting these events." Serena Coope, 51, attended the wreath-making session in memory of her mother, who also passed away from MND six years ago. "Its something thats close to my heart," Serena said. "Talking to others who understand the experience of losing a loved one to this condition is incredibly comforting."

The event continues to grow in popularity, and those involved are hopeful that it will keep raising valuable funds for these important causes in the future.