More than 230 walkers took part in a sponsored walk from Packwood Haugh School in Ruyton XI Towns – the latest celebratory event in the school’s 125th anniversary year.

On Wednesday May 16, every child from Year 3 to Year 8, most members of staff, a good collection of parents and innumerable dogs embark on a 12.5km sponsored walk. There was even a small group of doughty runners led by the indefatigable Mr Nogues head of Modern Foreign Languages and super-fit Packwood mum, Mrs Bayliss.

The circular route took us over the school grounds, through the village and around the local countryside. We followed footpaths, bridleways and ancient drovers’ tracks taking in The Cliffe, Hopton Hill and Nescliffe Hill on our way.

Dry, clear weather and a moderate temperature made for perfect walking conditions and with the help of very welcome refreshments at two checkpoints on the route, everyone made it round safely and enjoyed being out in the wonderful Shropshire countryside in all its late-Spring glory.

Over an ice cream back at school, the children happily shared tales of their exploits and many have already asked to do the walk again next week!

Sponsorship money is rolling in steadily and we look forward to presenting half the proceeds to Hope House Children’s Hospice at an assembly later this term. The other half will go towards our 125 Appeal for funds to develop the school's science facilities that will be the legacy of this anniversary year.