Hoppy plans for Easter

Ashton-based Willow Wood Hospice is looking to get more schools involved in fundraising, starting with a giant Easter 'Bunny Hop'.

The hospice wants to get thousands of children hopping, skipping or jumping across their playgrounds or school halls to raise funds for the hospice.

In return, each child will receive a set of brightly coloured bunny ears, a certificate and chocolate treat.

Community fundraiser Laura Marinelli said: “We want to get local schools, nurseries, playgroups and other children’s organisations throughout Tameside and Glossop joining in our Bunny Hop.  And they can choose a date and time to suit, so long as it’s in April to keep with the Easter Theme.

“Every child will get a set of brightly coloured bunny ears, a certificate and a Cadbury’s Crème Egg as a thank you for being involved.  

“All we ask is for a suggested minimum donation of just £1.50 to cover costs, although any sponsorship the children can raise over and above would be greatly appreciated!”

Willow Wood will provide the ears, chocolate, certificates and sponsor envelopes, plus posters and letters to parents and guardians explaining all about the Bunny Hop.

Although some children will have had some contact with Willow Wood and know about the hospice, the team is looking to grow awareness of its work and fundraising, offering talks to schools and to bring along its mascot Woody the Bear.

Laura added: “I will be contacting all local schools in the next week or so, but if you’re interested or would like more information please get in touch with me.

“We’ve also been appealing for donations of the Cadbury’s Crème Eggs and I’d like to say a big thank you to Morrisons in Denton who have donated 96 eggs, to Virgin Money in Stockport who have set up a collection table and to the Newton branch of the Co-op who have donated 48 Crème Eggs to the collection.  

“We’ve also had many smaller donations from members of the public.”

You can contact Laura by calling 0161 330 7788 or emailing laura.marinelli@willowwood.info.