A year to the day that Jack’s Drive to Save Lives got underway, the product of his efforts, the generosity of guests, and everyone involved behind the scenes, rolled into Potters this December.
Since his first challenge of a North Sea survival course back in 2023, Jack’s mind has been picturing a car. But not just any car. A life-saving one.
And, on Tuesday, 10th December 2024, that picture came to life, exactly one year after leaping into the freezing cold water at Lowestoft College.
NARS volunteer Steve Maddams and the charity’s chairman, Chris Neil, made a special stop at Potters in Hopton-on-Sea to introduce Jack to their new First Response vehicle. Following a series of challenges that raised £55,000, it was indeed a special moment.
Jack Jenkins (lobster) with John Potter (second from left), presenting Steve Maddams and Chris Neil from NARS with a cheque for £55,000 in October.“It was pretty amazing to see the car for real. The challenges were a lot of fun when I look back, but there were some hairy moments too. So seeing the car pull in at the gates for the first time was a feeling I’ll never forget.
“I’m so proud of everyone that has played a part in Jack’s Drive, big or small. And in terms of the unbelievable generosity of our guests and team, the reward is here for all to see.”
The car received its first call on Sunday, 1st December 2024. And, in the week between its launch and the visit to Potters, it had already responded to over 40 emergencies in ‘blackspots’ across the county of Norfolk, where ambulances can take longer to arrive.
The new car also carries a range of medical equipment that ambulances don’t. Most of their volunteers are medically trained beyond that of a paramedic, which means they can provide often life-saving support quickly until ambulances arrive to further stabilise and transport patients to a hospital if required.
Indeed, on this special unveiling, and just as Jack was finishing his lunchtime special, the call came in! But there were, of course, no complaints. “Seeing Steve and Chris rushing off, it became immediately evident how important this car is.”
Thankfully, Steve and Chris were able to return and give Jack the full tour. You can watch the highlights here…
In an equally special moment, Buzby Allen checked out the car, as did Iris Pratt, who was enjoying a break when NARS came to visit.
As well as bringing hundreds of guests to Potters every year, Iris, alongside her son Geoff, has raised over £20,000 for the Potters Friends Foundation since 2015. Those vital funds have been key to our support of NARS since our first donation to them in 2018.
Group organiser Iris Pratt (centre) grabs a peek at the new carSteve Maddams said: “The support we’ve had from Potters over recent years has been unbelievable. It was wonderful to see so many guests coming out during our visit for pictures of the car. We’re so thankful for initiatives such as Jack’s Drive, guests like Iris and the many who have supported us in one way or another. We receive no government funding, so without that generosity, this life-saving service is simply not possible.”
Buzby was thrilled to see the new car, pictured here with Steve and Chris from NARS.Want to read more about Jack’s Drive to Save Lives?
