The Press and Journal (Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire)
Hundreds of children raise £11,000 for cancer charity
They are only taking the early steps in their lives.
But a group of kind-hearted pupils have raised nearly £11,000 after an Inverurie school hosted a fundraising event for a cancer charity.
The youngsters at Kellands Primary School decided to help those with the disease after hearing about the condition at an assembly.
And, assisted by their teachers, this led to around 500 youngsters, aged between three and 11, walking, jogging and running up to five kilometres, to raise money for Cancer Research UK as part of the Race for Life Schools programme.
Their athletic exploits took place at Kellands Park and event organiser and primary teacher, Pamela Dawson, was understandably delighted with the kids’ efforts.
She said: “The Cancer Research UK Race for Life event was really successful. A tremendous total of £10,823 has been raised which is a phenomenal achievement.
“When I heard all the cheering as the pupils were running to the finish line, I shed a little tear.
“I was so proud of how the day went and I would like to thank all the community groups such as the Garioch Partnership, the local rugby club, the council’s Active Schools programme and Leisurelend service.”
One of the P6 pupils, Adam Stevens, said afterwards: “I was delighted with my time. I completed the race in 33 minutes. It was fantastic that we raised over £10,000 which could help children with cancer.” Lucy Machray, another Kellands P6 pupil, added: “I thought the Race for Life went really well. Miss Dawson did a fantastic job in organising the event. I am really proud of her.
“Before the race, we all had jobs to do. I was a marshal which involved helping things run smoothly.”
Her fellow P6 pupils, Alex Forbes and Chloe McIntosh, also flung themselves into the challenge. Alex was also a marshal while Chloe was among those responsible for first aid.
Councillor Gillian Owen, Aberdeenshire Council’s education and children’s services committee chairwoman, said: “I am delighted that local school children took the lead in arranging this event to raise funding and awareness of cancer. I hope that the generosity of Inverurie residents will play a part in combating cancer sooner.”
The committee’s vice-chairman, Councillor Mark Findlater, said: “To raise nearly £11,000 for Cancer Research UK is a tremendous achievement. I would like to congratulate and pay tribute to Miss Dawson for taking the initiative in arranging this Race for Life Schools event. I know that many teachers, parents and pupils are very proud of her.
“The bairns have done fantastically well in racing around the park. It is wonderful to see these youngsters do something to help those who may be in desperate need.
“I very much hope that they continue to do generous deeds and encourage people in Inverurie to consider others.”