By Noah Roberts
A loving aunt has grafted over the last few months to pull together a fundraising event for her three year old nephew Noah Butterfield, who has a tumour and is in need of treatment.
On Sunday, 3 August New Farnley Cricket Club, in Lawns Lane will be the venue for a very special event: Farnley Fest 2025.
Rebecca Garnett, Noah’s aunt, used to live in Pudsey and now lives in New Farnley. She said she wanted to “host this event to raise awareness, hopefully raise some funds and to have a fun, family friendly community day.”
She approached New Farnley Cricket Club asking for help. Noel Bullock, from the club, said “With us having the biggest beer garden in Farnley, we were approached to see if we could help, and it was a no-brainer.”
Noah, who is three years old, has been diagnosed with non-Hodgkins Lymphoma and is undergoing intense chemotherapy. Because of where the tumour is located Noah now has sight loss, which Rebecca says is unlikely to return.
Rebecca said “His parents have been forced to give up work and move into hospital to be with Noah, whilst he receives treatment.
“Treatment has been very gruelling. Six months of intensive chemotherapy and numerous procedures and tests that have caused a number of infections. Despite all he is and has gone through, he is in high spirits and very much a proud Leeds United fan.”
Rebecca’s mother died at age 52 of cancer when Rebecca was only 21 years old. Rebecca said that “Living with or knowing someone who has cancer is not just devastating, but it also has a massive impact on mental health. So I want Farnley Fest to be fun and create happy memories, to bring people closer together and know that we are not alone.”
Rebecca has worked hard over the last few months to pull together Sunday’s festival.
“I have been in contact with nearly all the councillors across Leeds. Those who have replied have said they will share the details and spread the word. Some of the councillors will be attending and one has offered to do face painting”.
She has appealed on social media for performers, stall holders and food vendorsBusinesses across West Leeds have made generous donations of raffle prizes.
Attendees can expect lots of fun activities, including:
- Bouncy castle
- Inflatable slide
- Hook a duck
- Spin the wheel
- Street food vendor
- Burgers and other hot food
- Coffees, Lattes and milkshakes
- Ice cream van
- Candy floss stall
- Balloons
- Character mascot and children’s entertainer
- Handmade crafts
- Toy stall
- Tombola and raffle.
Stanningley Red Watch from West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service have confirmed they will be in attendance.
Farnley Fest starts at 10am on Sunday, 3 August at New Farnley Cricket Club, Lawns Lane, LS12 5ES
You can help by sharing Rebecca’s Facebook event page and spreading the word.
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