Tring Summer Carnival & Parade 2024
The community of Tring has always been so incredibly supportive of Hector’s House, and we felt it was very important for us to be present at the carnival and to be seen by the local community. Fortunately, Tring Together, who organised the carnival not only agreed with this, but went above and beyond to ensure we could be seen by all who attended the parade, securing us a float and a fantastic plot on Pound Meadow. Rob and I parked up the Hectour Bus on the field around 08:45 and began setting up for later in the day. Once the flags were up and we knew everything else was present and correct, we wandered down the far end of Tring to meet the rest of the team who were already beavering away decorating the float.
The trucks were parked up under a bridge, out of the sunlight and mercifully in a gentle breeze. Team members Sarah, Susan, Karyn and her husband Tim, were unfurling the beautiful bunting that John from Tring Yarn Bombers had kindly made for the day. Securing the bunting to the truck proved an interesting challenge, but with some cable ties, ingenuity and firm footing, we got there in the end. Balloons inflated, banners secured, bunting hopefully not going anywhere, the float was ready for its catwalk appearance down the high street. With lots of other things still to set up for the day ahead, we dispersed.
Rob and I headed back to Pound Meadow and finished setting up the Hectour bus. This bus was crowdfunded by our amazing supporters back in 2018/19 – and is currently being funded by the Co-op Local Community Fund. We’re also so grateful to JJ Stringer who has worked tirelessly to get the Hectour Bus fitted out and road ready. Through everyone’s kindness, we now have a mobile hub for events which provides a safe, confidential space where anyone can unpack their feelings, be listened to and get help.
Whilst we were getting the last bits together here, the first batch of volunteers were gathering at the top end of the high street. I think we were the last to arrive. Joining us was Susan’s daughter Chloe, Rob’s sister-in-law (Hector’s Aunt) Sooz, Quanta staff Dawn, Rheanon, Claire, Jo and her daughter Matilda, and friends of the charity: Joyce, Darren and Clare.
Team assembled, float on site, positive music playing, we set off down the high street. With dancing, singing, waving, maracas, tambourines and enough energy to power the town, we made our way past the hundreds people lining both sides of the street. It was of the utmost importance to us that this was a celebration of life. Not only hoping to inspire joy in those that saw us, but also to physically convey our openness and warmth. So that in the future if anybody should need us, they’ll think of us as the approachable and optimistic group we are.
Somehow we made it to our final destination without losing any balloons, and with no one falling on their bum! Once we arrived at Pound Meadow, and safely disembarked, we settled in for the rest of the day on our pitch. Through the rest of the afternoon we had a rolling roster of volunteers. Nestled in the shade of our gazebo and tucked up against the HecTour Bus we were joined by Trustees: Bee, Jill and Andy with volunteers Cathy and Terry. As the day went on people approached us and made donations, often stopping to ask questions about what we do, and then to share their own experiences. Talking face to face with people is always an incredibly humbling experience. Hearing their stories, struggles, and wins helps remind us why we’re here. Not just for Hector’s legacy and to honour who he was, but to help as many people as we can to move forward. Whether they have been affected by the suicide of a loved one, or are struggling with their own mental health, we are here to help give people the tools they need to lead a life where they’re happy and fulfilled.
We would like to give one last extra-large thank you to Chiltern Transport for providing the trucks for the parade at no cost. The drivers were all a pleasure to work with, doing their utmost to accommodate us while we decorated the trucks, and to safely drive us through the town. Another “thank you” must go to everybody that donated to us on the day, shared their story with us, or took time to learn about ours. Finally, thanks to all the volunteers mentioned here. We couldn’t do this without you. By increasing our awareness, you are helping us to save lives. And for that, we are forever grateful.
If you’d like to join our amazing team of volunteers, please email us on hihector@hectorshouse.org.uk – we’d love to hear from you!
