Kind-hearted students organised a beach litter pick to show their support for a charity that supports one of their classmates.
Youngsters from Alderman Peel High School, in Wells-next-the-Sea, joined forces to collect rubbish and raised £1,030 for East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH).
Fourteen-year-old Reece Steerment, who attends the school, has muscular dystrophy and receives care from EACH at The Nook. In particular, he and his family enjoy hydrotherapy, art therapy and wellbeing sessions.
His friends were keen to show their support and, after a class discussion, hit on the idea of a beach clean. Thirty-one of them took part, and, working in teams of four, they collected just over 6kg.
Higher Level Teaching Assistant Lisa Yarham said: “We were so pleased to raise this fantastic amount – especially as our initial target was £450.
“Reece’s classmates decided a beach clean would be a good way to show their support, and, working in groups, they collected large amounts of rubbish.
“I’m so proud of them, and it’s lovely they felt inspired to do such a positive thing through their friendship with Reece.
“It was also a great opportunity for them to do something helpful and worthwhile for our community.”
The litter pick took place on Monday, 30th June, and the students, who were joined by six teaching assistants and Reece’s mum, Leah, recently handed over a giant cheque to EACH Senior Community Fundraiser Natasha Butler.
“It was lovely to meet everyone and say a personal thank you for their incredible efforts,” said Natasha.
“We’re so grateful because fundraising of this nature makes such a difference, in terms of helping us provide our vital care and support.
“The litter pick was a perfect idea as it also involved doing something worthwhile and positive within the community. We’re so grateful and hope every student feels rightly proud.”
Leah added: “I’m beyond proud of Reece and the other students for the support they’ve shown, as well as every single person who donated. It was a fantastic idea and such a great amount raised that will make so much difference to families like ours who receive support from EACH.”
The students’ JustGiving page is still open. Click here to show your support and make a donation.
