SCHOOL pupils behind ambitious plans for an outdoor community gym and teen-shelter have taken part in a competition to further their support for the project.
Pupils from Valley School, in Whitehaven, were asked to create a poem, poster, presentation, picture or video message on the plans to share with their school, and representatives of the Well Whitehaven project that is driving the regeneration of the area.
The online competition was judged by Mike Starkie, Elected Mayor of Copeland, with the winner receiving high street vouchers donated by Morgan Sindall Infrastructure Ltd, partner in the Well Whitehaven initiative and the project.
The winner was Blake Watson, with Millie Lynch runner-up and Alexis Norsworthy in third.
Mr Starkie said: “I was extremely impressed by the talent and creativity shown by the Valley School pupils; it was very tough to pick a winner. The children are clearly very proud of their community, and have lots of passion for the gym and shelter projects that would bring benefits for the whole area.”
Charlotte Branney, Year 6 teacher at Valley School, said: “The superb standard of work produced by the children, during lockdown, was amazing. It shows the passion that they all have for making their shared dream, of an outdoor gym on Mirehouse, a reality. I am so proud of them all for their hard work and determination.”
The initiative has been designed by the pupils to improve the lives of those living in the Mirehouse and Corkickle communities. Well Whitehaven is bringing together partners from different sectors with the children and local communities to help them realise their ambitions.
Emma Williamson, Copeland Council’s Well Whitehaven Officer, said: “Now that the current guidelines on outdoor gyms have been published, this initiative is needed more as we recognise the importance of regular exercise and keeping our bodies fit and healthy has never been more prevalent.”
For more information on Well Whitehaven, contact Emma Williamson on [email protected] or 07341 121895.
