BYAUSTIN LYNCH
This summer the Erne Vintage Car Club has decided to host it's annual vintage car club run in memory of its founding Chairman, Raymond McCartney, who passed away twelve months ago. Raymond was Chairman of the club for 26 years.
The weekend, running from 15th - 17th August 2008, will once again consist of the Friday night Charity Parade, Saturday run around Lough Erne and a short Sunday run to one of Fermanagh's most popular attractions.
As usual, a large crowd is expected to turn out on the Friday night to watch the pre-war vintage cars lead the parade followed by bands, vintage tractors and musical acts. Street performers and face painters will also be positioned along the route of the parade to add to the carnival atmosphere.
A collection will be taken up as part of the evening, and all proceeds will be divided between the Erne Hospital and the Irish Lung and Fibrosis Association. Both of these organisations helped care for Raymond before he passed away.
The Saturday run begins at the Killyhevlin Hotel and makes its way through the town centre before heading to Garrison for lunch via Florencecourt and Belcoo. Afternoon tea stop is in Kesh before everyone returns to Enniskillen in the late afternoon.
On Sunday, there will be a short tour around Ely Lodge before heading to the Lough Erne Golf Resort Hotel for lunch.
Raymond's death occurred following a period of declining health. He was an active figure and much loved husband, father and grandfather, of Lakeview Park, Enniskillen. He was well known for his warm personality and sense of fun. Throughout his life, he pioneered a number of initiatives in his native county - in both business and community life.
It was when Raymond purchased the Killyhevlin Hotel that his love of vintage vehicles was developed - thanks to a Model T Ford, which came with the hotel.
Raymond was a founder member of the Erne Vintage Car Club and he served as Chairman until a few years ago when he became Honorary President, being the life and soul of the organisation.
Erne Vintage Car Club, a successful long established group, has raised large amounts of money for different charities. Its annual weekend parade and run - a firmly established date in the county - has become one of the county's major attractions, appealing to locals and tourists alike.
Raymond was actively behind the Erne Vintage Car Club Millennium tour around Ireland and also a 25th Anniversary tour across Northern Ireland. His vintage car travels took him all over Ireland, as well as further afield, including an early memorable trip to Lyon in France. He derived great fun and made lasting friendships through the vintage car circuit, and he used to drive at weddings as a hobby.
The Erne Vintage Car Club are expecting vehicles from all over Ireland, and a few friends from England, to come and take part in the Raymond McCartney Memorial Weekend Run.
