Killead Ploughing Society has donated a cheque worth £1,000 to Northern Ireland Children’s Hospice following a fundraiser at the society’s annual ploughing match.
The funds were generated at Killead Ploughing Society’s 108th annual match, which took place in October last year on land at Lyehill in Templepatrick, Co. Antrim, which was provided by local farmer David Wallace.
The long-running event once again drew “support from the local community, contributing to another successful year for the society.”
The chair of the Killead Ploughing Society, William Johnston expressed his appreciation for another successful year of ploughing.
Johnston said: “Our annual autumn ploughing match was a great success.
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank our valued sponsors, the ploughmen, and everyone who contributed to the success of our 108th match.
“As a small organisation, it gives us great pleasure to present a cheque for £1,000 to our nominated charity.”
The cheque was formally presented to the regional fundraiser of Northern Ireland Children’s Hospice, David Dixon, by members of the society.
Dixon thanked the society for its contribution as he highlighted the role that community support plays in the work of the hospice.
He commented: “We are the only children’s hospice in Northern Ireland, and we provide specialist palliative care for babies and children with life-limiting illnesses.
“In 2024/2025, we cared for 333 babies and children, as well as their parents, siblings, grandparents, and extended family.”
Dixon noted that the hospice offers a wide range of supports to families, such as specialist clinical care, practical nursing care, and emotional and psychological support, with these services being available in Horizon House’s in-patient unit and family homes across Northern Ireland.
Northern Ireland Children’s Hospice
Northern Ireland Children’s Hospice is marking its 25th anniversary this year, having supported families across the region since opening Horizon House in Newtownabbey in 2001.
The organisation relies heavily on public support, such as the society’s ploughing day fundraiser, to continue its hospice work, according to Dixon.
“The majority of our funding comes from the generosity and kindness of the local community.
“Without that support, we would not be able to continue delivering the vital care services needed by families across Northern Ireland.
“The donation from Killead Ploughing Society will help ensure that the hospice can continue to provide essential care and support to children and families across the region,” he added