Mammoth ride for playground (From Dudley News)

Mammoth ride for playground

10:13am Wednesday 15th June 2011 in Netherton

FUNDRAISERS at a Netherton church cycled from Land's End to John o' Groats without even leaving their church hall.

Members of Primrose Hill Congregational Church in Chapel Street held the 874-mile fundraiser to raise money for a new children’s playground.

Starting at 8am, members of the congregation took it in turn to cycle the distance on three exercise bikes, and completed the equivilant distance of the popular cycle ride 12 hours later.

The team raised around £700 from their efforts, which will go towards a new play facility for its youngest members.

Hayley Ball, one of the church leaders, said: “It went brilliantly.

We had lots of people turn up to be involved, of all age ranges, from one to 80 years-old.

“It was a great family day and we are really pleased with the amount we raised.

“We have around 200 children use the church facilities each week, so we know the playground would be really well used.”

Meanwhile the church will be hosting a celebration weekend next week to help raise further funds for the playground.

On Saturday (June 25) the Chapel Street church will be hosting a concert by the Gentleman Songsters Male Voice Choir.

The event begins at 7.30pm and admission is free, although donations can nbe given towards the playground appeal.

The following day, the church’s youngest members – the PHCC Allstars - will be holding their annual Anniversary celebrations in GLEE style.

The children will be retelling the story of Doubting Thomas through acting, singing and dancing.

Services will be held at 10.45am and 6pm and will be followed by refreshments.