‘Awesome’ the word used by many to describe the HGV convoy that has so far raised over £16,000 for NHS charity work at Peterborough City Hospital.
An estimated 100 HGVs and trucks took part in the convoy on Thursday evening, travelling from Chatteris and through the villages to Peterborough.
The convoy arrived in time to lend support to the 8pm ‘clap for NHS heroes’ and was applauded at nearly every step of the way by villagers turning out in their hundreds to wave and cheer.
Organiser Danny Whitmore of Goldstar Metal Traders said: “I just want to say a massive thank you to every driver who made tonight so damn perfect.
“The turnout from the public was phenomenal; we didn’t realise how much the word got around in 10 days”
He added: “Thank you to the fantastic escort drivers that pulled out all the stops to keep us moving. - you guys I can’t thank enough.”
Mr Whitmore also had a special word of praise for all those who had helped, and especially to my mate Nathan Cowling. I couldn’t have organised all this without him.”
He added: “Never did I dream we could pull this off.”
The convoy was organised to support the NHS and especially the work of North West Anglia NHS Foundation Trust who Mr Whitmore said provides “outstanding care to our local population.
“Providing the ‘added extras’, including facilities and equipment, to enhance the patient experience, support research programmes and the development of services”.
He said: “I am wanting to raise as much money as possible to give to the NHS at Peterborough district hospital to show our appreciation for all the hard work they have done and continue to do through such difficult times.”
Everyone taking part in the convoy chipped in a minimum of £10 to take part but Mr Whitmore added that “other donations though are flooding in”.
Helen Lombardo, who helped with the event, said: “Well what can I say. Thank you to every one of you that stood and lined the streets, waving clapping.
“It was so emotional and to see so many people supporting us”.
One driver posted on social media: “I watched them coming back from my back garden. It was like being at Truckfest.”
Another said: “What an awesome achievement. I was parked at Peterborough services last night and heard you all.
“Everyone involved should be so proud of themselves – it was very emotional and such a success.”
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