Children at Chesterfield school raise thousands by skipping for hospice

Old Hall Junior School pupils were motivated for the challenge after seeing Ashgate Hospice’s Winter Appeal for help, and discovering how its income has dramatically shrunk during the pandemic.

Youngsters decided to run or skip the 1.2-mile distance from their school to the hospice and back, and seek sponsorship money for their challenge.

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They initially hoped to raise £1,000 – which teachers thought might have been too ambitious in the current climate – but have smashed their target and have now handed over more than £7,000 to Ashgate.

Year 6 teacher and organiser of the event, Lauren Thomas, said she was proud of pupils and staff.

"We originally set out to raise £1,000 and questioned whether, in the current climate, this was a little too much,” she said.

"However, we have been amazed by the magnificent support from the local community – it just shows how special Ashgate Hospice is to so many people.

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"The determination, enthusiasm and pride that the children have shown has been wonderful to see and it has been great to have something really positive to focus on in school during this difficult time.”

Together, the children completed enough laps to be the equivalent distance from John O’Groats to Land’s End.

Due to the current restrictions, the sponsored events took place in the school grounds with each year group running on a different day.

Ashgate Hospice’s community fundraiser Lynn Jones said: "We're so grateful to the staff and pupils at Old Hall Junior School for their incredible fundraising.

"This year has been very tough for the hospice and this mammoth challenge has brought a smile to all of our faces.

"If you've been inspired by the children's efforts and wish to support your local hospice, you can find inspiration on how to fundraise safely on our website. Thank you once again to the wonderful children at Old Hall."

The hospice donated t-shirts and medals for the children and Lauren says they were ‘exceptionally supportive throughout the whole event’.

You can still donate by visiting the school’s JustGiving page.

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