Worcestershire | Archive | 2002 | November | 6
From the archive, first published Wednesday 6th Nov 2002.
AN Appeal to raise money for a new school playground in the Gambia has taken a promising turn as money has started rolling in.
The Advertiser is backing staff at Exel, on the Berry Hill Industrial Estate, who are raising £3,100 for a playground at St Joseph's Secondary School in Bajul, The Gambia.
Fundraisers, led by an Exel manager Bob Powell, took on a gruelling sponsored walk from Droitwich to Stratford last month and raised a huge £683 and the money is still rolling in.
Fundraisers
The 22.5 mile walk took the three fundraisers and their support team through Hanbury, Alcester and into Stratford. It took them five and a half hours to complete.
Spa people have also been giving their support and have so far donated just under £100, as well as other equipment such as computer parts and food mixers.
Bob said: "We're really grateful of the help that townsfolk have been giving and would urge them to continue to.
"I know it's coming up to Christmas and charity starts at home and all that but the smallest amount of money or anything that isn't used anymore would help so much.
"The average month's wages in the Gambia is £34 so you can imagine how far just £1 goes out there.
"I really want to get this money for the school and to continue helping with medical supplies and stuff. It would be such a shame to stop now."
Bob is planning to fly out to the Gambia on November 21 to surprise the school with the money that has been raised so far.
"I can't wait to see the children's faces when they see how much we have got thanks to the support of friends, family and the people of Droitwich," he said.
Nearly £18,500 worth of medical equipment, which is no longer used, will be taken out to the country in March next year.
And a planned auction in Droitwich Spa will soon give local businesses the opportunity to do their bit.
Anyone who wants to support the appeal should make their cheques payable to the Bob Powell Gambia Project, at any Lloyds TSB.
The bank account number is 21841268. The sort code is 77-85-67.
Alternatively call Bob on 01905 797479.
© Newsquest Media Group 2008