The steam Rally Day was born three years ago in memory of a young man, Jake Birkinshaw who, sadly lost his life following a fatal car accident. Jake had a passion of all things mechanical, so a group of people got together to create something that Jake would have loved… a day full of his family, friends and an array of amazing mechanical machines, mixed together with a party feel.
Jake was in Charlie Craigs year at Hope Valley College and along with a cracking group of young people were all very good friends. Losing Charlie, at just 15 years from SADS was just horrific but with the help from Mr Beaden and Tim Buckle from Chimp Management (I have to mention these two amazing humans for getting the boys through the last couple of years of school) they made it to the end of year 11. CRY, and the testing of young people for undiagnosed heart conditions holds a very special place in our hearts. We would like to remember Richard Hill, Kyle Hancock and Charlie who all lost their lives due to sudden adult death syndrome but also to Jake. We miss them terribly.
Each year the collaboration of families who own collections of Steam Engines and various types of old, weird and wonderful vehicles tour the Hope Valley, Peak District, often from Pub to Pub where the generosity of local hostelry’s provides refreshments for its participant’s. It truly is a sight to be hold when you see the trail of smoke, followed by these incredible machines traveling along the country lanes.
This year proved to be another phenomenal day! Everyone’s incredible kindness and generosity helped to raise £2,480. Thank you to everyone who came along and made the day such a wonderful success.