Students raise cash for charities

May 29 2009 The Journal

TWO cancer charities are set to benefit from an equestrian-based event in Northumberland organised by students at a college campus specialising in land-based courses.

Equine management students at the Northumberland College’s Kirkley Hall centre near Ponteland will be running the fundraising event on Thursday June 11.

Breakthrough Breast Cancer and the Orchid Cancer Appeal will share the proceeds of the evening, which will see the students performing a range of short demonstrations in the college’s outdoor equestrian arena.

The students, who are in the second year of their higher national diploma in equine management, have organised the invitation-only evening as part of the event management module of their course.

They have secured prizes from a number of local companies which will be auctioned off to raise money.

These include a spa day at the Copthorne Hotel in Newcastle and arena hire for four people at Pastures New Equestrian Centre.

Alastair Parkin, Kirkley Hall’s team leader on the equine management course, said: “This is the third year our students have organised a major event as part of their course.

“This year we are also encouraging former equine students to get in touch if they would like to attend.

“Most people know somebody who has been diagnosed with cancer. We hope to make a substantial contribution to the two charities while providing a great night of entertainment.’’

Anyone who wants to attend the event, or donate a prize for the auction, can contact Alastair at alastair.parkin@northland.ac.uk