Axbridge First School’s Fun Run raises thousands for Brain Tumour Research

Axbridge First School CofE Academy raised a whopping £7500 by organising an all-school Fun Run that took place at Axbridge furlong on Wednesday 28th June.

Isla is a pupil in Year 4 at Axbridge First School who was diagnosed with a rare form of brain tumour over a year ago.  After following Isla and her family’s journey through a very difficult and challenging time during her treatment, the school felt it was important to raise awareness and funds for Brain Tumour Research and the Wallace & Gromit Grand Appeal through a whole school event. And so the idea of a Fun Run came to light!

After spending long hours in hospital during her treatment, Isla wanted to raise enough money to buy a Nintendo Switch and a game, so that other children going through treatment could have something to play with whilst in hospital.

With the support of Isla’s family, the PTA, staff and the whole community, the Fun Run took place in the school field with all the pupils and staff taking part. Head teacher Mr Shillabeer made a promise to the children that if they raised over £1700 he would dress up as Banana Man – this target was quickly reached! To further that, he promised that if they raised over £2000 both he and Miss Nash would have a bucket of ice water poured over them, needless to say this taregt was also quickly reached much to the delight of the community!

What has been overwhelming is the incredible community spirit with sponsorship and donations flooding in non-stop.  So far the school has raised over £7500 which will be split between both charities, and will not only help with much needed research and equipment, but will also fund the Nintendo Switch and game that Isla was so keen to buy for other children like her.