Dallas youngsters raise money for local school with 24-hour stay in livestock trailer
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FIVE youngsters from Dallas spent 24 hours in a livestock trailer over the weekend to raise money for their local primary school.
The kids, aged between four and 11, stepped into the trailer at 4pm on Friday and left it at 4pm on Saturday – with short toilet breaks only.
Eva Ingram (11), Aila Gibson (9), Fergus Ingram (9), Tilly Gibson (6) and Rory Gibson (4) came up with the idea themselves to raise cash as part of the MFR Cash for Kids School Challenge.
The challenge gives pupils a three-week period in which to raise as much cash as possible. The school that raises the most money will receive a £3000 top up, with £2000 for second place and £1000 for third.
The amount received through online donations is hidden until the deadline for donating passes today. However, the kids raised in excess of £200 in cash donations.
Fiona Graham, mother to three of the children and Dallas Parent Partnership chairperson, said: "They all did amazingly well.
"I have to say, I had my doubts about whether they were going to do it – but I think because they came up with the idea themselves that gave them an extra incentive to follow it through.
"They were very hyper and excited to begin with, and we gave them hot water bottles and blankets and they slept right through the night until 7am.
"Emotions went up and down and the last few hours were the hardest push.
"Half way through, Fergus said they should stay in for 48 hours – but Aila said she was never doing it again when she came out!
"We got a lot of support from the community which was lovely."
Funds raised will go towards plans to erect a ‘polycrub’ (eco-friendly poly tunnel) and create a garden next to Dallas Primary School.
With the new growing facility in place, pupils will be able to spend much more time learning about planting, growing, harvesting and even cooking their own food.
While the kids were stuck in the trailer, other fundraising events were ongoing with a South African BBQ and a treasure hunt.
In addition, the parent partnership is selling lucky squares. Prizes include a two-night stay for four at Mission Hall Holiday Cottage in Maggieknockater, a two-night stay in a large Wigwam at Sands Caravan and Camping in Gairloch, a £50 cash prize, malt whisky, a Macbeths voucher, six Lessons for Ellicize and lots more.
To donate before the deadline, click HERE.
