THE DEPUTY headteacher at South Bromsgrove High School will be taking part in a daredevil walk across burning coals to raise funds for the Stroke Association.
Chris Smith, 42, will undertake the dramatic feat at the town’s Life After Stroke Centre on Thursday (April 21) after being inspired by one of the pupils at the school who he discovered had suffered a stroke as a baby.
Chris said: “I’ve seen the effects of stroke first hand, and have been inspired by seeing the student overcome the challenges he has faced to flourish in school.
“I now want to raise funds to help other people affected by stroke get the support they need from the Stroke Association.
He added it was the first time he had done anything like this.
“I’ve been encouraging my year 11 pupils to face their fears ahead of their exams, so thought it only fair that I take on a challenge and face my fear too.”
Georgina Lawrence, the charity’s regional fund-raiser, said: “The firewalk is an exhilarating experience and a great way to raise money for the Stroke Association.”
She added the cash collected would go a long way towards supporting local stroke survivors.
And she said there was still time for people who wanted to take part to register and do the firewalk.
All participants will have a training session before walking across 20ft of wood embers which will be burning of temperatures of 1,300°F. Registration is from 6pm with the firewalk at 7.30pm, while visitors can also enjoy a hog roast and refreshments including mocktails and hot chocolate. There will also be activities and games for spectators to enjoy.
The firewalk costs £20 to register, and participants are asked to raise a minimum of £75 in sponsorship. For more information and to sign up, e-mail [email protected] or call 01527 903501.
Visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Chris-Smith144. to sponsor Chris.
