Reindeer Run raises over £40,000

Reindeer Run raises over £40,000

Children across Herefordshire and its borders have helped raise more than £40,000 for St Michael’s Hospice.

Over 4,500 youngsters from 26 primary schools and nurseries took part in the Hospice’s first-ever Reindeer Run just before Christmas.

Sponsorship money has continued to pour in throughout January, with the final total coming to an incredible £42,665.50.

‘To raise such an extraordinary sum of money at a time of year when finances are often stretched just goes to show what a generous community we have,’ said event organiser, Gaynor Warren.

‘Thank you to every parent, grandparent, relative, friend and neighbour who donated and, of course, to every child who donned a pair of antlers and a reindeer nose and enjoyed a socially-distanced walk, jog or run with their friends.’ 

Primary schools and nurseries were supplied with the noses and antlers, and invited to choose the date, distance and location of their Reindeer Run.

For some it was a meander across the playground, while others opted for a run around the school field. Whichever route was chosen, the children were encouraged to get sponsored for St Michael’s.

‘In a year when lots of our usual Christmas activities were either cancelled, or changed greatly, the children all loved having this festive activity to take part in,’ said Vicky Turner, Administrator at Stretton Sugwas C of E Academy.

‘We will look forward to taking part in future hospice events.’

The funds are a great boost to St Michael’s which must raise at least £5.4m each year to cover its care costs.

To lend your support, you can find out more by visiting https://www.st-michaels-hospice.org.uk/get-involved/