FUNDRAISERS are under starters orders as they prepare to stage a race night to send students on a trip of a lifetime.
The event, on February 28, is expected to raise thousands of pounds for a life-changing trip to Kenya for students at Darlington School of Mathematics and Science.
It will be the first time that the school has organised such an ambitious trip to Africa to help the impoverished community of Nakuru, three hours north west of Nairobi.
The ten day trip is scheduled to leave in June and the students have been working for months to raise the £33,000 needed for the trip. So far the total stands at £27,000.
Darlington School of Mathematics and Science teacher Natalie Bane, who will lead the trip, said: “Excitement is really growing now and when the weather improves we plan to organise some expeditions in this country to get the students in the mood.
“The last race night was fantastic and everyone had a great time so we hope as many people as possible support the next one.”
Race night goers are invited to join staff, governors and parents at Darlington Rugby Club at Blackwell Meadows, Darlington, from 7pm. Tickets are £5 from school reception and include a pie and peas supper. Horses are £5 each.
The event has been sponsored by the Devonport Hotel, Middleton One Row, which has offered prizes for every race.
Its new owner Anthony Tillbrook said: “I am all for doing things for the local community and was delighted to help the school out with some prizes.”
Charis Bell, 14, said: “The tickets are booked and we are now planning the logistics, such as what we need to take with us and the various jabs we have to have. Excitement is really growing, not just among the lucky students who get to go, but right across the school.”
For more information contact assistant head teacher Dave Tucker on (01325) 351377.
