Grim determination pays off (From Gazette & Herald)

Grim determination pays off

POLICE officers and athletes ran, crawled and waded their way through an arduous eight-mile challenge over rough terrain to raise cash for a North Yorkshire school.

Helmsley beat officer PC Ray Thwaites organised a team to take part in the gruelling Grim 2004, in Aldershot, Hampshire, on Sunday.

They collected £1,000 for Ryedale School, Nawton, which is close to reaching its golden goal of £50,000 so it to make a bid to gain special status in performing arts.

The team was PC Thwaites, Kirkbymoorside beat officer PC Steve Leach, Sgt Paul Stephenson of the Malton-based road policing group, York-based officers PC Jim Farr and PC Scott Nixon, Surrey police officer PC Simon Drew, PC Thwaites' brother Colin, and Evening Press Ryedale reporter Victoria Young.

The Cherubs - Helmsley-based personal trainers Annie Keers and Emma Duncan, and her sister Sophie - raised £500 of the total cash collected.

More than 2,000 people ran the course at a military vehicle testing area, which involved running through muddy ravines and across puddle-strewn paths, wading through deep icy water-filled puddles, and crawling under camouflage netting.

"It was a challenge for us as an individual and it was a team effort for the school. We successfully achieved a tough challenge to raise money for a worthwhile cause," said PC Thwaites.

Macdonald Hotels provided discounted accommodation, Mennell Motors, Malton, provided transport, and North Yorkshire Police paid for diesel.

Pupils, parents and teachers took part in the Ryedale School Gala Concert at Helmsley Arts Centre on Saturday, which raised several hundred pounds.

A capacity crowd watched everything from ballet to drama, and classical music to the school band.

"What a weekend it was," said head teacher Geoff Jenkinson. "As far as Grim 2004 is concerned, I am absolutely thrilled that the community has supported the school and this project so enthusiastically."

Cash and cheques can still be handed in at the Feversham Arms Health and Fitness Club, Helmsley, or Helmsley police station.

Updated: 11:35 Tuesday, January 20, 2004