Sponsor means Hessle Road pram race can push ahead
THE organisers of the Hessle Road pram race are celebrating after attracting a main sponsor for next year's event.
Safety equipment company Arco has pledged £9,000 to ensure the traditional event can be staged in the summer.
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Last summer's pram race
There were fears this year's event might have been scrapped due to lack of funding and the course had to be shortened to save money.
But with the backing of Arco, the cash will be available to pay for the barriers, marshals and the electrics.
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Organiser Kim Hepple said: "It's great that we have this money so far in advance of the event.
"We will continue to raise funds for the charities, but we know the full event is covered.
"It is a relief not to have to worry about funding, which means we can focus on the event itself.
"The event is growing in popularity again and this means we can have an even better one next year.
"Arco does a lot of good work in the community."
Joint managing director of Arco, Nick Hildyard, is delighted to be backing the pram race.
He said: "The Hessle Road Pram Race has raised a fantastic amount of money for the local area in previous years, helping a wide range of local businesses and groups.
"Arco is proud to be the main sponsors of this historic event in the year that sees Great Britain hosting the Olympics, and to be supporting the economic regeneration of the local area."
The historic race, originally called the Fish Dock Pram Race in the 1920s and 1930s, came about when the wives of the Hull trawlermen at sea would rush down West Dock Avenue to the trawler owner's offices to draw their husband's wages.
In recent years, the event was revived as a way to promote businesses while celebrating Hull's vibrant history.
Last year, 3,000 spectators lined the street to watch 17 pram-pushing teams race to the finish line. The funds raised supported many local charities including the Network Young People's Centre. Next Year's event, being held on July 14, will encourage participants to "Go for Gold" in Olympic-themed activities.
The route will begin at the Boulevard and finish at Rayner's pub.
There will be a carnival at Massey Playing Fields and organisers are appealing for groups such as cheerleaders and marching bands to take part in the procession on the day.
Anyone interested should call Kim Hepple on 07876 440484.
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