Oldbury head braves arctic weather to raise cash for special pupils (From Halesowen News)

Oldbury head braves arctic weather to raise cash for special pupils

11:51am Tuesday 19th March 2013 in News

IT was ‘snow joke’ for Oldbury headteacher Gordon Phillips as he braved arctic conditions to complete a 10k sponsored run to raise funds for learning aids for his school.

The 60-year-old ran through snow and icy winds to complete his seventh annual run at RAF Brize Norton, Oxfordshire, on Sunday (March 17) in 62 mins 57 secs.

Although it was his slowest time - he conceded he is getting older - and was pleased to beat his practice best by almost four minutes.

His effort has brought in £500 so far towards his £12,000 target to purchase an electronic sensory mat with an eye pointer to aid the learning of special needs pupils at The Meadows Sports College.

Mr Phillips said the 11 to 19-year-olds, who have complex and profound learning difficulties, would benefit enormously from the experiences created from using the equipment.

He is asking companies to have dress down days and schools to have non-uniform days to boost the appeal.

Anyone wishing to run their own fundraiser or make a contribution should contact the Dudley Road East school on 0121 569 7080.