Thousands of children from across Cumbria donned antlers and laced up their trainers to take part in the first-ever Reindeer Run in aid of Jigsaw, the only children’s hospice in the county.
More than 5,100 children from 35 schools across Cumbria will have taken part in the festive fundraiser once it comes to and end when youngsters break up for Christmas.
Schools were provided with their own fundraising packs – which included a set of antlers for each child taking part – and then devised their own run, walk or event to take place in December to raise money for the charity.
The initiative is in aid of Jigsaw who provide day to day care, support and activities to children and young people living with a life limiting illness.
Vicki Lesley, fundraiser at Jigsaw, said: “On behalf of everyone at Jigsaw I’d like to thank everyone who has completed their Reindeer Run, those who’ve signed up and are still to do their events and everyone who’s sponsored the brilliant children taking part.
“The money raised will help our incredible staff continue to provide love, care and support to children, young people and their families from all over Cumbria.
“It’s not just about the money that’s raised as this initiative has really helped spread the word about the amazing work Jigsaw does to thousands of young people who will be our fundraisers of the future and we couldn’t thank them more for their efforts.”
Schools have been really creative with their reindeer runs this month, with some schools making their own festive-themed obstacle course or turning the event into a full-scale Christmas party.
Ellie Curwen, of Mayfield School in Hensingham, said: “We took part in the Reindeer Run to raise vital funds for Jigsaw as many of the pupils at our school both past and present have benefitted from the services that Jigsaw provide.
“The majority of these children have complex needs so require specialist environments and highly trained staff to ensure that they can access the range of fantastic activities and experiences that the hospice offers.
“Pupils completed the run at their own pace in a range of ways. There were lots of interactive elements such as a snow machine, Jigsaw provided antlers and each child received a medal at the end from Santa for their amazing efforts.”
Clifton Primary School, near Penrith, made their run into a festive obstacle course.
Nikki Brabant, class teacher, said: “All the children had a fantastic time doing the Reindeer Run all while being able to support such a great cause in Jigsaw, Cumbria’s children’s hospice.”
If you’d like to donate to the Reindeer Run fundraiser, please go to the Jigsaw website at: https://www.jigsawhospice.org/support-us/fundraise/the-reindeer-run-donations
