Schools take up the Challenge for mariners’ charity
Shipwrecked Mariners’ Society CEO Malcolm Williams (left) is seen with ‘honorary agent’ volunteer Philip Woodford on the Isle of Wight, where one of the Challenge Walks will take place.
The Shipwrecked Mariners’ Society in the UK is calling on schools to take a Challenge and go walk about, at the same time as raising money for a good cause.
To end the summer term on a high note, The Society is setting a Challenge that guarantees fun at no additional cost. An educational adventure for all the ages, the Shipwrecked Mariners’ Society wants children to learn about the crucial role seafarers play in our day to day lives, so schools taking part can use the Challenge as a National Curriculum project or subject topic. With 2010 being the ‘Year of the Seafarer’, schools can even have a maritime themed fancy dress walk or hold a themed fancy dress day instead.
The Challenge can take place any time to suit the schools between now and 30 July 2010. Pupils are encouraged to donate £1 to take part and photos, anecdotes and tales from the events are welcomed. Easy to organise, the Challenge Walk has pre-planned routes in the Isle of Wight, Jersey, Lynmouth and Weymouth as well as many other parts of the UK.
‘With the school holidays just around the corner and warm weather with us, the schools Challenge is an ideal way to end the summer term, said CEO of the Shipwrecked Mariners’ Society, Commodore Malcolm Williams, CBE RN. ‘As an island nation, we are extremely reliant on our seafarers and in recognition of 2010 being the Year of the Seafarer, we hope the maritime theme features heavily in all events. The schools are all on, or near the coast, so we hope children will enjoy learning about one of the industries that has contributed so much to their local area. Once completed, all schools which have raised money for the Society will receive a certificate as a record of their endeavours.’
The Shipwrecked Mariners’ Society was founded in 1839 and exists to provide relief to the seafaring, and ex-seafaring community. As well as helping in the event of a shipwreck, and they do still happen, its main function today is offering financial support to retired or elderly seafarers and widows who have fallen on hard times. Last year, the Society made grant payments totalling over £1.6 million to beneficiaries in one off or regular grants.
Taking part in the Challenge is free and easy to enter. To request an information pack call 01243 789 329 or visit www.shipwreckedmariners.org.uk
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