Sutton families take to the skies for uplifting virtual balloon race fundraiser

Families and staff at Hill West Primary School will go up, up and away when a virtual balloon race lifts off this Sunday (28 March).  

Children, staff, families and residents being encouraged to sign up to Hill West’s first ever virtual balloon race, which costs £3 per entry, with all funds donated to the school community.

The race, which finishes on Thursday 1 April, will allow entrants to pick a balloon colour, design and name and watch their progress online. Prizes include a first place £20 Amazon voucher, second place £10 Entertainer voucher, and third place of yummy treats.

The event has been organised by Hill West Parents, Teachers and Friends Association (PTFA) and follows the success of last year’s virtual fun run, which raised funds to support children on their return to school after lockdown.

Chair Dawn Adamthwaite said PTFA volunteers have been “incredibly creative” in their fundraising initiatives during the pandemic. The balloon race is testament to volunteers’ “blue skies thinking.”

Mrs Adamthwaite said:

“We’re really excited about the race. It’s the first time we’ve organised this, so we wondered how our families would respond, but it’s lovely to see how many people have already bought balloons. It’s going to be great fun!

“The children have enjoyed choosing their balloon and naming them. We’ve had some truly original names such as ‘The Floating Pickle’ and ‘Watch out Ducky!’ Thanks to everybody for supporting this event – including those who generously donated prizes.”

Dr Beth Clarke, headteacher of Hill West Primary School, which is part of the respected Arthur Terry Learning Partnership (ATLP), said:

“The Hill West Community have done us proud again! This balloon race is just what we need to lift our spirits. It will bring everybody together for some fun and fundraising.

We feel blessed to have such a wonderfully supportive community and PTFA. I can’t wait to join everybody at the start line!”

For further details please visit: https://www.balloonrace.com/HillWestPTFA