Two Frome sisters, Maddie and Libby North, who died in a road collision on the A361 in 2023, were honoured and remembered at the recent Wessex Truck Gathering.
Maddie and Libby were killed by a drunk driver on the A361 in July 2023. The family is well known in the truck community, and at the recent Wessex Truck Gathering held at Frome Market, the sisters were honoured in a poignant convoy of trucks along the Frome Bypass.
This year’s gathering saw a turnout of 177 trucks from across the UK, including vehicles from Bolton, Liskeard and Heathrow. The event featured food vendors, trade stalls, a kids’ zone and a performance by The Chosen Few.
For this year’s event, the sisters’ parents, Jason and Verity, chose RoadPeace, the national charity for road traffic victims, as the beneficiary.
“The involvement of RoadPeace underscores the event’s commitment to supporting those affected by road traffic incidents and advocating for safer roads,” said event director Gabi Cross. “Fundraising efforts at this year’s event included a charity raffle and auction, which helped raise an impressive £8,378.84.
“The event attracted 1,200 attendees throughout the day, showcasing the strong support and enthusiasm of the community.
“The Wessex Truck Gathering continues to be a testament to the strength and unity of the truck and haulage community, bringing people together for a greater good.
“The convoy, a symbolic gesture of solidarity and remembrance, served as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of road safety.”
Founded in 2021 as the Mendip Truck Gathering, the event was initially organised to raise funds for a family facing terminal illness. Since then, it has evolved into a significant charity event, rebranded in 2024 to support various causes close to the hearts of its organisers and participants.
