Hitchin's iconic Lucky Penny VW camper van is a perfect Muse after caring owner Kate Peto proves to be a great CHUM at charity auction

By Layth Yousif

29th Jun 2023 | Local News

Lucky Penny Weddings is an acclaimed business that plays a large part in bringing joy to our community

Hitchin's iconic Lucky Penny VW camper van and owner Kate Peto have proved to be caring hosts after kindly donating their special services to a charity auction.

Penny is Kate's vintage 1966 split-screen, cream coloured VW Microbus and was used to transport a group to watch Muse at a large venue, after helping out a charity called CHUMS that provides mental health support to families.

Kate takes up the story. "On Sunday I had the pleasure of taking lovely ladies to watch the fabulous Muse at Milton Keynes Bowl.

"They had bid on tickets at a recent fundraising event for the Charity CHUMS and as part of the aution package was first class transport in Penny.

"When Nik Demetriades, CHUMS charity director asked if I could help out with a prize for the auction I jumped at the chance."

Kate added: "The work CHUMS does is truly inspirational, to be able to support them even in the smallest way is a privilege."

All CHUMS together. The group Lucky Penny transported to watch Muse at Milton Keynes Bowl to boost the CHUMS charity. CREDIT: CHUMS

Lucky Penny is beautifully appointed inside and out for wedding parties and can be decorated to match your chosen colour scheme.

Penny seats up to seven people, plus the driver, with space being the key, with room to carry the bride – and dress – unruffled and in comfort and style. You can also use her to transport your bridesmaids and VIP guests to the reception. The choice is yours.

Nik Demetriades, CHUMS Charity Director added: "As a local charity, we are totally reliant on raising funds through donations to be able to continue delivering vital mental health services for vulnerable children & young people and their families.

"With this very generous donation from Lucky Penny Weddings, we were able to raise £30,000 at our recent Gala Ball – funds that are already helping to make a difference to people's lives in our local communities.

"We are very proud to work alongside Kate and her team, and we want to thank them for their support for our work."

CHUMS has been providing mental health support to families in Bedfordshire and beyond since 1997. The money raised will be used to continue to provide the charity's services including the Trauma Support Service, the Recreational Therapeutic Service, the Disability Friendship Scheme, the Bedfordshire Suicide Bereavement Service, and the Babyloss Support Service.

For more information on CHUMS' services, please visit their website at www.chumscharity.org.

PS: CHUMS are hosting a Charity Golf Day on 7th September at Bedfordshire Golf Club. Any businesses or individuals wishing to enter or support the day should contact [email protected] or visit the website.