WESTBURY did its bit for Sport Relief last weekend as local people of all ages took part in fundraising activities to help push the national appeal past a record £56million.
Around 75 people took part in a sponsored run at Leighton Recreation Centre on Sunday morning, while pupils at Dilton Marsh and Westbury Leigh primary schools held events of their own during the school day on Friday.
At the recreation centre people were challenged to walk, jog or run one, three or six miles to raise money for the charity. Centre manager Keith Brunsden said, “The day went really well and we had a better turnout than in previous years. There was a brilliant atmosphere; those taking part enjoyed the event and there were lots of people cheering them on.
“People were sponsored individually, so we don’t know how much was raised yet, but I think we raised around £500 from entry fees, which is great. Finishing times ranged from ten minutes to two hours; it wasn’t a race and the most important thing was that people did what they could and got involved for a good cause.”
Mayor of Westbury, councillor David Bradshaw officially started the run. He said, “It was brilliant to see so many people here supporting the event and doing their bit for Sport Relief. Everyone is a winner and they should all be very proud of getting involved.”
Pupils at Dilton Marsh Primary School took part in a cupcake challenge and raised money by selling their entries in a cake sale at the end of the day.
At Westbury Leigh Primary School, staff and pupils were invited to dress in the kit of their favourite team or a sports club they play for.
Local childminders Kate Dalby and Sue Simpson held a ‘danceathon’ to raise money with children at their nursery.
Sport Relief took place from Friday 18th to Sunday 20th March and broke its fundraising record, with nearly £57million raised by Monday.
Half of all the money raised by the public is spent in the UK, with the other half used to make a difference in the world’s poorest communities.
