Evenwood pupils' thank-you to village's running club

STAFF and pupils in Evenwood have thanked a community running club for helping them to pass the £10,000 fundraising milestone for a new climbing frame.

During a special assembly at Evenwood Primary School, a cheque for £100 was presented to Evenwood Road Runners.

Since October last year, a total of £10,192 has been raised to help fund the school’s new outdoor equipment which will be chosen by the children.

In June, a one-mile sponsored run raised £1,000 towards the target of £15,000. As a thank you, the decision was made to give the running club ten per cent back.

Samantha Tucker, who runs the club with her husband, Paul, said: “We would like to say a massive thank you. It will help us with kit through the winter. It can even go towards buses.”

Andy Laybourn and Tony Hindmarsh, of Evenwood Road Runners, also ran the Great North Run last month raising a total of £251 which will be added to the pot.

Fundraising co-ordinator Jill Swinbank said: “We have been trying to raise money for a new climbing frame. The one we have got now has been there for years and like everything it has got to the end of its time. It needs updating.

“Evenwood Road Runners are so good with all the children so we said we would give something back to them.

“They do a phenomenal job and what they do is really good for the children.

“We like to do something for the community. We feel the links we have are important.”

During the past year, staff, children and parents have held various events in and out of school to help raise the money needed.

This has included cake bakes, raffles and £50 challenges.

Mrs Swinbank added: “The support from everyone has been fantastic. The parents have come up with ingenious ways of raising the money.”