HUNDREDS of parents scrambled to pick up an Easter treat at a school spring fundraising fair.
West Park Academy, Darlington, opened its doors for its annual Easter event with a host of stalls, raffles and games to help raise money for an adventure playground and outdoor classroom venture.
The school, which has already received a grant from the MOD, is looking to raise additional funds to help create a sensory garden, activity trail and outdoor shelter for use by pupils and the local community.
Principal Catherine Thompson said: “Our student school council have been asking for a fun outdoor area for a long time and our nursery teachers wanted to provide a sensory garden for younger pupils – but we have never had the funds required before.
“Many of our students are from families that serve within the Armed Forces so when we heard about the Community Covenant Grant we applied and were successful in securing £38,500 towards the cost.
“To supplement the scheme we need to raise an additional £10,000 which will enable us to create a sensory garden, an adventure trail, an outdoor classroom for 30 pupils, storage for local groups.
The school is well on its way to meeting its target having already raised £4,000 for the new facility, which will be accessible by the whole community.
The Easter fair, organised by pupils and class teachers, provided stalls selling cakes, a tombola, guessing games and a lucky dip.
“We have had an incredible turnout today for the Easter fair with lots of people buying cakes and taking part in the raffles and games,” said Year 1 teacher Gemma Chambers.
“All the children have helped to get the stalls ready and have really enjoyed getting involved.”
Grandparent Denise Meredith, who came to the fair with her granddaughter Audrey, added: “It’s been very busy here today which will hopefully help the school towards its fundraising target.
“I’ve bought some raffle tickets and had a go on the lucky dip – it’s been a really good event.”
