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Community rallies behind Ipswich mum's hospital toy appeal in daughter's memory

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We publish the stories that matter and champion everything that's good about our town – without the ads, popups or tracking

A local construction company is calling on the local community to support a mother's mission to bring Christmas joy to children at Great Ormond Street Hospital. The appeal, which honours the memory of Eva Tucker, has been growing since 2018.

Why it matters: The initiative brings together local businesses and residents to support families facing difficult times during the festive period while creating a lasting legacy for Eva Tucker, who received care at the hospital in 2017.

Danielle Tucker
Danielle TuckerDanielle Tucker

The big picture: Local construction firm SEH French is spearheading collections at their White House Road office, aiming to make this year's drive "the biggest ever" following reduced support in 2023.

What they're saying: "If I can give one child something to smile about this Christmas then it is all worth it," says Danielle Tucker, who established the Eva Tucker Brighter Future Fund after experiencing first-hand the impact of donated presents during her own time at the hospital.

"We spent time at the hospital over Christmas and experienced the magic and smiles on everyone's faces when people came to donate presents," she adds. "It isn't just presents you're giving, it's hope and light for people during such a hard time."

The details: The appeal is seeking donations, including:

  • Dolls houses

  • Card games

  • Figurines

  • Plastic animals

  • Blankets

  • Books

  • Night lights

Between the lines: Hospital policy prohibits the acceptance of second-hand items. However, monetary donations can be made through dedicated JustGiving pages for the Christmas appeal and the Eva Tucker Brighter Future Fund.

Christmas Toy Appeal in 2022
Christmas Toy Appeal in 2022Danielle Tucker

How to help:

  • Drop off new toys at SEH French, 30 White House Road, Ipswich, before 7 December

  • Donate online via the crowdfunding pages

The bottom line: "We do lots for charity throughout the year, but this one really is something special that the entire team gets behind," says Heather Bryan from SEH French. " We all want to do our bit in trying to spread some smiles to children and their families."

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Family pays tribute to 'loving' Ipswich man killed in A14 crash

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"A loving father, brother and grandad" who brought "joy and laughter" is how relatives described John Vincent, who died in a collision near Stowmarket last month.

Why it matters: The 61-year-old from Ipswich was involved in a fatal crash on the A14 last month, with police now appealing for witnesses.

John Vincent
John VincentSuffolk Constabulary

The details: Police were called just after 23:40 on Thursday, 20 February to reports of a collision involving a car and an HGV on the westbound carriageway of the A14 between Stowmarket and Haughley.

Mr Vincent's black Ford C-Max collided with a Volvo Skip Loader vehicle parked in a layby.

Ambulance crews, firefighters and a paramedic from Suffolk Accident Rescue Service (SARS) attended, but Mr Vincent was sadly declared dead at the scene.

What they're saying: In a tribute released through police, Mr Vincent's family said: "To a loving father, brother and grandad who will be sorely missed for all the joy and laughter you brought into everybody's lives.

"You will be missed greatly by all who knew you. Rest in peace you will never be forgotten.

"We love you. RIP John William Vincent."

What's next: Police are asking witnesses to the collision to contact the Joint Norfolk & Suffolk Serious Collision Investigation Unit, quoting reference 37/9754/25.

The bottom line: Support information for those affected by road traffic collisions can be found on the Suffolk Police website.

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

We can't do this without you!

If you value strong, free, independent local media that fights tirelessly for our town, please consider contributing just £24 per year

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