By ROBERT GIBSON robert.gibson@hexham-courant.co.uk

Published at 09:45, Friday, 05 March 2010

A LADIES’ driving challenge weekend to raise money for the creation of a children’s hospice is to take place at Albemarle Barracks, rather than Otterburn Defence Site, as originally proposed.

The event, which is organised by Grace House Children’s Hospice Appeal, will see female participants test their skills on a range of emergency vehicles on April 24 and 25.

The charity is raising funds to build, equip and run the only stand-alone, independent children’s hospice in the North-East, which will provide respite, palliative and terminal care for children, and support for families.

The change of venue allows drivers to make the most of Northumbria Police’s Albemarle skid car facility.

“The opportunity to use a full range of police vehicles as well as additional on-site facilities has propelled the event to a higher level,” said Grace House fund-raiser Karen Larkin.

“We’ve had a positive response to the event and several people have purchased this fantastic experience as a gift for Mother’s Day.

“The person who raises the most sponsorship funding will win an overnight bed and breakfast stay for two people at Longhirst Hall, near Morpeth.”

Participants will be able to drive and operate numerous vehicles, including a fire engine, police cars, an articulated lorry, a crane and a 4x4.

Other activities on offer during the weekend include a Stig Challenge and basic training on how to change a wheel.

Participants can secure a place for £25, if they pledge to raise a minimum of £100 in donations or sponsorship, or for £100, without the need for sponsorship.

The hospice appeal was founded by former ITV newsreader and presenter, Kathy Secker.

Philippa Tomson, of ITV Tyne Tees, helped launch the challenge.

She said: “This will be a fantastic event. I am offering my support to this very worthy local cause and urge others to do the same.

“It’s imperative Grace House raises the required funds to build this specialist facility for families within the region.”

For further information, contact Karen Larkin on 07846 542929 or (0191) 5166302, or email info@gracehouse.co.uk

Published by http://www.hexhamcourant.co.uk