Kirkcaldy's socially distanced Race For Life nets cancer charity £2000

Some of the pupils who took part in their own Race for Life to raise money for Cancer Research UK.

Parents, pupils and staff from Valley Primary School and nursery took part in their own socially-distanced Race for Life on Saturday, September 26.

The event was held around Valley Gardens, the school and the Templehall area, on a pre-set out 5K route on surrounding streets, with four different checkpoints that 40-50 families could be pictured next to or colour in on a map they were given.

Callum Reston, a member of the school’s sport and physical activity team, said: “We originally signed up for our Race For Life in February.

Youngsters with their medals after taking part in the school's own Race for Life.

"When we heard from the organisation that it was hosting a virtual event, we decided to do our own version.

"Our school’s sport and physical activity team staff members – Lisa Burnett and I decided that the P6 class would help us promote and organise the whole event.”

He added: “A number of families associated with our school, including pupils and staff, have been affected by cancer.

"Cancer Research UK plays an important part in our lives – that’s why we decided to play our part in funding this amazing cause.”

Callum Reston taking a selfie with the staff at the event.

To ensure the event took place safely, they set our guidelines which included asking those who were participating to stay in groups of a maximum of six people, limit it to only one other household in their group, and follow social distancing. People were also set off on the route at different times.

Callum continued: “We set what we thought was an ambitious target of £500, but we very quickly realised that after staff raised over £300 between them that we were going to go over it. Having said this, reaching £1000 was never in our thoughts, let alone £2000!

“The event was a huge success – the school, pupils, families, staff, the community have never seen this kind of money raised before. "

Callum, who leaves Valley to take up a post as a youth development co-ordinator in Lochgelly, added: "This event and the money we raised was the perfect leaving 'gift' for me.

Families associated with Valley Primary and the nursery took part in the Race for Life.

"I am so proud of everyone.”

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