Memorial Vintage Vehicle Run to Raise Funds for Mary's Meals

A Memorial Vintage Vehicle Run in aid of Mary's Meals South Monaghan Branch will take place Sunday, August 23, with vintage enthusiasts, local families and supporters expected to gather in Aughnamullen for a day of fundraising, remembrance and community spirit.

Hosted by Aughnamullen Vintage Club, the event will begin and finish at Aughnamullen Centre (A75 CY82). Registration opens at 1.30pm, with the run getting underway at 2.30pm.

Entry is €20 per vehicle, and the route will be revealed on the day.

The event is being organised in memory of a founder member and dedicated committee member of Aughnamullen Vintage Club, whose contribution to the club and local community left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

That founder member was John Hamilton, who passed away last August. A passionate vintage enthusiast, John had been involved with the club since its formation in 2009 and played a key role in helping organise events and activities over the years.

John was much more than a committee member. He was a loyal friend, a trusted colleague and someone who was always willing to lend a helping hand. His passing was deeply felt not only within the vintage club but throughout the wider community.

Members fondly remember his commitment to the club and his love of all things vintage. While he rarely liked to miss a club meeting, friends recall that the occasional poker night or turkey-plucking season sometimes got in the way. His good humour, generosity and dedication ensured that he was always at the heart of club activities.

“Aughnamullen Vintage Club is not just a group of vintage enthusiasts, it is a group of great friends and colleagues,” said a club spokesperson. “John loved the vintage club and was always there to help with everything. He is greatly missed by all of us.”

At the request of the Hamilton family, all proceeds from this year's event will be donated to Mary's Meals South Monaghan Branch. Organisers say the chosen charity is a fitting tribute, as John had encouraged the club to support the organisation in previous years and was a strong believer in its work.

The club is hoping to raise as much money as possible for the charity and is encouraging people from across the region to come along and show their support.

A variety of refreshments will be available in Aughnamullen Centre throughout the afternoon, including soup, sandwiches, tea and homemade buns. Brian Rudden's hot food vendor will also be in attendance, while candy floss, popcorn and ice cream will be available for visitors.

Organisers are appealing for donations of buns, cakes and other baked goods. These can be left at the centre from 12 noon on the day of the event. Any contribution would be greatly appreciated as a large crowd is expected.

As part of the fundraising effort, raffle tickets are currently on sale. The top prize is a €300 Go Anywhere Hotel Voucher, sponsored by Aughnamullen Vintage Club, along with a wide range of additional prizes kindly donated by local sponsors.

Raffle tickets cost €5 per line or three lines for €10 and can be purchased from committee members, at the centre, or on the day of the event. Those unable to attend can still support the fundraiser by purchasing raffle lines or making a donation through Revolut at @pamela6ut1.

Representatives from Mary's Meals South Monaghan Branch are expected to attend the event and provide information about the charity's work.

The Aughnamullen Vintage Club is extending an open invitation to the public to join them for what promises to be a memorable occasion, celebrating the life of a much-loved friend while supporting a charity that meant so much to him.

Any donations, no matter how small, will be gratefully received.