Andrea Lilley

Lincoln’s city centre skies were filled with 300 white and purple balloons on August 12, as part of a fundraiser for the Meningitis Research Foundation.

Children and volunteers were urged to donate and participate in the day’s balloon racing events. Lincoln BIG’s Rachel Hanson organised the charity event in memory of her nephew, who was taken by the illness earlier this year.

The charity balloon race raised awareness of Meningitis and how important research for a cure is.

Earlier this year Rachel Hanson’s two year old nephew passed away without warning due to Meningitis.

Hanson’s nephew was posted in pictures in the area as a reminder of just how serious the illness is.

Volunteers offered face painting for donations to both children and adults.

A large crowd gathered as the children competed in talent competitions for £5 and £10 vouchers to W.H. Smith.

Volunteers and friends wait patiently for their turn to release the balloons that were providing them shade.

In preparation for the balloon release, children practiced their counting down skills.

The balloons were released after everyone present participated in a loud countdown.

The balloons took flight fast as children watched in wonder how they became tiny dots.

Many joked that the balloons they were on their way to Boston.

Proprietor Gary Burnett has every reason to smile, as Lincoln-based Double M catering services are making an appearance at the York Racecourse.

Both Burnett and CGC Events, manager of catering requirements for some of Yorkshire’s racecorses, presented the mobile food stands to Chief Executive and Clerk of the Course at York, William Derby. After much debate and time, Burnett was approved to appear at two of York’s biggest racecourse events.

“Mr Derby seemed very impressed by the appearance of our new units and offered Double M the opportunity to supply additional events at York Racecourse,” said Burnett. In the mobile catering business for over 10 years, Burnett is excited by the news, and glad to add it to their number of appearances.

“We work closely with CGC Events and our units can also be seen at Pontefract, Beverly, Nottingham, Ripon and Market Rasen racecourses, as well as events such as the Lincolnshire Show, Grapevine 2010, and the V festival,” he said.

The new vehicle looks came from Allen Signs, one of only two approved 3M Local Vehicle Wrappers in the East Midlands.

The 24 foot trailers went in for a massive overhaul and came out with a new wardrobe. New vinyl covers the entire trailer and large graphics give the business eye-catching appeal.

“We’re proud of the food we produce and now we’re proud of our vans. Allen Signs has been sign-writing our catering units for over ten years, and I’m delighted with this latest project to smarten up three of our trailers, ” Burnett added.

Source, Photo: Shooting Star