Silverstone teenage racer makes fast buck for caring charity

Reece Barr raised £700 for Rainbow Trust Children’s Charity, which supports families with a seriously ill child.

The 17 year-old originally from Donegal, is pursuing his driving ambition by moving to Silverstone village, right next to the world-famous race track.

Having raced in karting divisions for three years, Reece made the step-up to car racing in 2017 with great success, moving up from the Mini Challenge UK Championship to the TCR Europe Touring Car Series after his first season.

The young driver became aware of Rainbow Trust after hearing about the charity through word-of-mouth, discovering it was a cause close to his heart.

After some further research into the charity, Reece decided to start fundraising.

Reece said: “The team and I liked what we were hearing about Rainbow Trust. There were some really amazing stories and we were happy to help however we could. They are a great charity to support.”

Rainbow Trust enables families who have a child with a life-threatening illness to make the most of their time together.

It provides expert practical and emotional support, wherever possible, for as long as needed.

Rainbow Trust pairs each family with an expert Family Support Worker who becomes a trusted and constant person in family life.

Reece added: “Illnesses in younger children cause huge amounts of stress for families.

People may feel quite alone, so when they get the support that Rainbow Trust offers, it can make a world of difference.”

Fundraising included challenge events outside the team awning, asking for donations from people to compete and attempt to top a leader board, Rainbow Trust banners were put up at the awning and the charity logo was put Reece’s car itself, which generated interest.

Reece is now competing in the TCR Europe Touring Car Series, which is held across Europe, but he is keen to raise more funds for Rainbow Trust towards

Oonagh Goodman, Director of Fundraising and Marketing at Rainbow Trust, said: “We are incredibly grateful Reece has been able to help us fund our vital support for families with a seriously ill child.

Visit rainbowtrust.org.uk