Dez and Lesley Tinkler have lived in Newton Aycliffe for many years with their children. Over the last 34 years they have had unbelievable tragedy, losing three of their daughters, Donna, Stacey and just last year Vikki.
Friends and family wanted to help the family raise funds to purchase a headstone with all three names. but headstones cost an awful lot of money. Nicola Nicholson a close family friend organised a fundraising night in November at the Scout Centre who offered the room free of charge as Dez has been a member of the club for many years.
Unbeknown to the people involved this was just the start of an amazing amount of donations and support.
Michael Murphy provided Disco music free, On sale were raffle tickets, tombola and cards to win a 3-4 night stay in a luxury caravan in Haggerston donated by Lee and Rosie Woodward.
Entertainment was provided by a singer and a magician plus
an Auction for a full bathroom suite including tiles and fitting supplied by a local family run business Interiors 4 You.
Dez, Lesley and family including Vikki’s daughter Hannah found it very emotional. Tears were shed by all who attended and Dez made an emotional speech thanking everyone for their donations, help and for just being there for the family.
The final total was a massive £2122.15! Nicola had originally hoped to raise £500.
It is amazing and just goes to show how much love and respect people have for the Tinkler family.
Nicola and others involved would like to thank everyone for their generosity.
