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Gravesend Grammar School pupils raise hundreds for new sports centre

A Year 7 pupil has gone above and beyond for his school's fundraiser.

Ty Hopkins, from Cliffe, has raised £600 for Gravesend Grammar School's new athletic development centre.

He hopes to one day be a snowboarding instructor. Picture: Becky Hopkins
He hopes to one day be a snowboarding instructor. Picture: Becky Hopkins

The 12-year-old has been bike riding, running, walking and scooting to help collect funds for the project.

Teams have been taking part in the Gravesend Grammar School Sport to John O'Groats Plus Challenge – where students tried to clock up as many miles as they could between February 15 and March 15.

The cumulative distance run, walked or cycled by the groups and individuals will be added together to see how far the school has gone as a collective over the four week period.

Ty, who dreams of becoming a snowboard instructor in the French Alps, said: "I think it's very important to back all school projects especially this one given the year we've had.

"During lockdown, I found it crucial to go outdoors and do lots of activities and sports which has really helped me with my fitness and mental health.

Ty Hopkins, from Cliffe, has raised hundreds for Gravesend Grammar School. Picture: Ty Hopkins
Ty Hopkins, from Cliffe, has raised hundreds for Gravesend Grammar School. Picture: Ty Hopkins

"I feel proud and privileged to help knowing the money raised will go towards building the new centre. Who knows what sporting superstars it will produce in the future."

All events have been undertaken in line with current Covid restrictions.

In November 2019, the school's plans to increase its Year 7 intake from 174 pupils to 210 in September 2021 were approved by Kent County Council as part of a £7m expansion plan.

Head of PE and Sport, Patrick Foreman, said: "We would like to thank all those who have contributed so far to the cause, committing their time and effort.

"A special mention to Ty Hopkins, a Year 7 student, who has raised nearly £600. This has helped us, as a community, to have completed well in excess of 8000km so far; surpassing our target of John O'Groats, and going beyond Mumbai, in terms of virtual kilometres; a fantastic achievement that everyone can be proud of."

You can donate to the fund here.

Read more: All the latest news from Gravesend

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