Mad Hatters Classic Car Run Raises £47,000 for Martin House Children's Hospice

On a sunny day filled with excitement and a sense of community, nearly 50 classic cars took part in the annual Mad Hatters Classic Car Run, raising an impressive £47,000 for Martin House Children’s Hospice. This charity event not only showcased stunning vehicles but also highlighted the importance of supporting children with life-shortening conditions.

The Route and Experience

The day kicked off with breakfast at Rudding Park in Harrogate, where participants gathered to fuel up before hitting the road. The convoy of classic cars then made its way to Martin House in Boston Spa, where the newly refurbished hospice welcomed them. After taking in the sights, the drivers embarked on a scenic journey to Harome, where a special Michelin-starred lunch awaited them at The Star Inn.

During the event, an exciting fundraising auction took place, led by TV antique expert Angus Ashworth. With the sun shining brightly, the drivers continued to their final destination—Grantley Hall, near Ripon—where they enjoyed afternoon tea and an awards ceremony. The atmosphere was filled with laughter and camaraderie as prizes were awarded for various categories, including:

• Best-sounding engine

• Most-loved British car

• Best-dressed Mad Hatter

The competition for the coveted best-dressed Mad Hatter award was fierce, but ultimately, a group dressed as Minions took home the prize, adding a fun twist to the day.

Red sports car parked in front of Georgian mansion

Vintage blue car in front of Georgian mansion with columns

Vintage car parked in front of Georgian mansion with columns

Vintage cars displayed on a sunny lawn with people admiring them

Group of people in festive hats enjoying a sunny outdoor event

Vintage blue car with costumed drivers outside a thatched pub

Smiling group of five people on a wooden patio with greenery

Chef serving grilled skewers at outdoor food festival

Chef laughing with a man in a beige suit and straw hat outdoors

Guests enjoying outdoor buffet at a garden event

Auctioneer in a white shirt holding a gavel at an outdoor event

Historic stone manor with classic cars parked in front

Impact of the Funds Raised

The funds raised during the Mad Hatters Classic Car Run will significantly benefit Martin House, a vital resource for families in need. Each year, the hospice supports over 550 children and young people with life-shortening conditions, along with around 200 bereaved family members across North, West, and East Yorkshire. The hospice provides essential services, including:

• Specialist planned short breaks

• Symptom management

• Emergency care

• Community care

• End-of-life care

With an annual operating cost of more than £13 million, Martin House relies heavily on voluntary donations and fundraising efforts to keep its doors open and continue providing free services to families.

Voices of Gratitude

Becky Leighton, the Relationship and Philanthropy Manager at Martin House, expressed heartfelt thanks to everyone involved in the event:

“We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who took part in this year’s Mad Hatters event—from our drivers and passengers to our amazing venues and headline sponsor, Rothschild & Co Wealth Management.”

“It was a brilliant day, with lots of fun for all involved. Crucially, we also raised vital funds which will allow us to continue to be there for families when they need us most.”

She also acknowledged the significant contributions of supporters Jonathan Sands OBE and Will Linley, whose vision and dedication were instrumental in making the day a success.

About Martin House Children’s Hospice

Founded in 1987, Martin House has been a beacon of hope for families facing the challenges of life-shortening conditions. The hospice is equipped with nine bedrooms in the children’s wing and six in the teenage wing, providing tailored care for young people. Facilities include a hydrotherapy pool, a wellbeing centre, and an education centre aimed at training healthcare professionals in children’s palliative care.

Martin House is not just a place for palliative care; it offers bereavement support for families who have lost a child, ensuring that no one has to navigate their grief alone. The hospice’s medical team includes specialists in paediatric palliative medicine, and it serves as one of the few training centres for future consultants in the UK.

For more information about Martin House and how to support this important cause, visit their website at www.martinhouse.org.uk.