THE FUNDRAISING efforts of children, parents and staff at a school in Tockington over the past year have culminated in a series of special events during the past few weeks.

Tockington Manor School’s work in raising money for charities from the Nepalese disaster appeal to local cancer charities was rewarded with a visit from the Great Western Air Ambulance Charity (GWAAC) helicopter last week.

Over the past year, the school has raised thousands of pounds for various charity appeals through a series of fundraising events.

At a recent assembly, the school welcomed Laura Perrett, regional fundraiser for the Teenage Cancer Trust who was handed a cheque for more than £1,000 to support the charity’s work.

The money was raised by members of the school’s performance choir, past pupils and The Vocal Works Gospel Choir directed by Tim King, performing a concert at the school.

The evening was supported by about 90 parents and staff. Money was raised through ticket sales, donations and bar revenue on the night.

It was organised by Sian Walters, piano and singing teacher at the school, who wanted to the support the charity which is close to her heart.

Laura Perrett, said: “We’ve been so impressed with the incredible enthusiasm of the children at Tockington Manor, and we’d like to say a huge thank you to everyone who took part.

“This money will go towards desperately needed services for local young people with cancer.”

The school are also well on the way to raising at least £1,000 to support GWAAC. They were therefore thrilled to welcome the arrival of their helicopter which flew in from Filton and landed in the field opposite the school.

The children were excitedly anticipating the visit following an inspiring assembly by Phil Cowburn, a critical care doctor and experienced crew member. He briefed everyone about the forthcoming helicopter visit and the work the air ambulance does on a daily basis.

All of the children were given an opportunity to get into the helicopter, talk to the crew and ask as many questions as they wanted during the visit.

Headmaster Stephen Symonds said, “It was a fantastic morning. We all felt privileged to have the crew here, grateful that they managed to stay for the whole two hours without having to leave urgently for an emergency, but most importantly how as a school we feel inspired to want to support and raise money for this invaluable community resource.

“It is surprising to learn that this essential and life-saving service is a charity. The helicopter is not paid for by government funding and the £2 million needed to continue operating relies on the generosity of the people it serves.”

For more about the Great Western Air Ambulance charity please visit www.gwaac.com.

For further information on the Teenage Cancer Trust please visit www.teenagecancertrust.org.