Driving ambition to help children
A Newmains driving instructor took to the fast lane for charity.
Sammi Croniken participated in the Big Learner Relay on Monday in a bid to raise £100,000 for Children In Need – a charity very close to her heart.
Mum-of-one Sammi said: “Children in Need is an amazing charity which makes a massive difference to the lives of so many disadvantaged children each year.
“When I was younger I was told I would not be able to have children.
“Thankfully I fell pregnant unexpectedly 22 years ago and I had my daughter.
“When I was told I couldn’t have children I always thought I would adopt because I know there is so many innocent children desperate for a loving home.
“Sadly my personal circumstances changed and I was not able to adopt but that’s not stopped me wanting to help these kids out.
“Children In Need supports and cares for so many children and that’s why I wanted to do my bit for the charity.”
The 42-year-old led the convey of four, decorated cars from Newmains to Livingston.
Each car carried a dedicated top box on their cars, which they passed on to the next instructor like a baton when they complete their leg of the relay.
The relay started on Monday and a will see thousands of UK instructors cover more than 3,000 miles in 15 days.
As well as receiving donations at each change point, the instructors also raised money by getting people to sponsor the spots on their cars.
Sammi added: “Everything went really well with the drive. We haven’t got our final total yet as the money all gets clubbed together at the end. We are hoping to exceed our £100,00 – target though so fingers crossed.”
Children In Need day will be held on Friday, November 16.