Schools in Calderdale help to raise £70,000 for Overgate Hospice

Over 7,500 children took part from 35 schools and nurseries – the biggest participation event the Hospice has ever had.

The Reindeer Run involves schools or nurseries taking on the sponsored walk or run at a time and date to suit them all the while dressed in antlers and red noses supplied by the Hospice.

Nikki Scholey, Community Fundraiser was not sure the event could go ahead. She explains: “With lots of our events cancelled due to the pandemic, we were concerned that our Reindeer Run would also need to be cancelled.

“However, after chatting to several local headteachers, we were reassured that schools could still take part in their class bubbles meaning the event was Covid-safe.”

Lee Mount Primary raised over £6,000. Headteacher Emme Ford, said: “We thought we would combine our love of running with doing something good for our community. We never dreamt that our school community would raise so much money and we are very grateful to all our families who sponsored our fabulous Reindeer Runners!”

Phil Simpson, Headteacher at Ling Bob school, who also raised over £6,000, said: “What a fantastic response from the community this was. A huge amount of money was raised for a fantastic cause.

“I and my staff would like to pass on our appreciation and thanks for everyone involved – well done!”

Nikki Scholey added: “We know it’s been a very difficult time for schools and their families, but we have been blown away by the support and we cannot thank the schools, pupils and their families enough for their support.

“The children were able to have some fun and It means we can continue to offer the care and support to the people in our community that really need it.”