Faced with the task of organising a group fundraiser amid the lockdown, six children, aged between five and ten from Taunton, set themselves the challenge of cycling – or scooting – 50km to raise money for international charity Christian Aid.
By the end of their quest, they had actually cycled 70km, looping a 1km route around the school grounds.
The children – Mabel (6) and Martha (9) Jones, Bobbie (5) and Annabelle (3) Florey, and Hattie ((7) and Archie (11) Edwards – live on the King’s College School campus, where some of their parents, Laura Jones, Emma Edwards and Sam Florey look after students as Houseparents. They all attend the Prep School, King’s Hall.
Mabel and Martha’s Mum, Laura Jones said: “It came from just a simple idea after our school chaplain ran a Christian Aid Week assembly about the charity’s Covid-19 appeal. We are all going through our own challenges, but the children wanted to do something for Christian Aid, so that’s how the idea came about.
“It was really difficult to know what they could do as a team, as that’s what they really wanted, but also while keeping to the social distancing rules. So, the cycle ride was the perfect solution.”
Christian Aid Week this year is raising money for poor and marginalised communities around the world who will be significantly impacted by the spread of coronavirus.
Laura continued: “We are very proud of their achievement - this was a wonderful team effort. They had so much fun completing the challenge and decided to push the distance to 70km.
“They feel exhausted, but are so pleased with the money they have raised to help others. They feel Christian Aid is a very worthwhile cause as they know the money will go directly to the people who need help. The COVID19 Appeal is helping families to protect themselves from the pandemic. We are so grateful for everyone's thoughtfulness and generosity in helping the children reach such an amazing total - so far!”
To donate and support Mabel, Martha, Bobbie, Annabelle, Hattie and Archie, visit https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/JONES-EDWARDS50k
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