[C]artmel Village rang out to the sound of music in what has been the most successful year for Joe and Connie Calling yet.
Raising considerably more money for the associated charity, Butterfly Hugs, than the previous year, organisers were delighted with the success of this year’s event.
Thousands of people from across Cumbria and Lancashire flocked to the peninsula to see 30 bands, four singing groups, three dancing groups, a cookery demonstration, the Iron shepherds and renowned classical ensemble Blue Topaz.
There was also an array of children’s activities including a treasure hunt, guided walks and a fairground. To make the day possible, an astonishing 49 volunteers helped out.
“We were overwhelmed, not just with the attendance, but by the support of the local business community” explained David Hamer who organises the event on a voluntary basis “The pubs, the sandwich shop, the Priory, the Racecourse, Unsworths Yard – I can’t think of many places where so many businesses would come together to support a day like this.”
“We’re really enthused by the success of this year – the feedback has been fantastic” continued David “Most importantly, this day exists to raise funds for our charity, Butterfly Hugs, which supports young families in South Lakeland and beyond who are coping with life limiting or terminal illness.”
Organisers are already planning next year’s event which they promise will be even better and will include some exciting new additions.
Joe and Connie Calling: Cartmel Rocks is in aid of Butterfly Hugs, a charity originally set up to offer support to the family of Joe and Connie Elson. Joe (7) and Connie (9) both suffer from MLD, a rare degenerative neurometabolic condition. The event raises money for families who have children with life-limiting or terminal illnesses at the same time as providing a lasting legacy for Joe and Connie.
