Stratton Primary School is trying to raise funds for an all new multi-purpose, all-weather 600 metre track, in their school field.

The idea for the track came after children from the school wanted to be able to continue running all year round.

The school’s headteacher, Penny Simpson said: “Many of the children were enjoying running a daily mile in the field during the summer term and were keen to continue this all year round. Unfortunately the track in the field isn’t suitable for all weathers.

“We have used the playgrounds but it isn’t as much fun and felt quite crowded.

“Our vision is to create a multi-purpose all-weather 600 metre track in our large school field which we would use with our pupils every day. This goes around the edge of the large field outside of the existing space used for sports pitches, and other athletic resources such as the long jump area.”

At the moment, the track is only effective in the summer term as it is weather dependant and therefore becomes very muddy and slippery in winter.

Ms Simpson added: “Our school field is a very valuable space and a resource which is currently not being used to its full potential. The school will be able to use the track on a year round basis rather than use being somewhat weather dependant at present. It will allow us to run our daily mile with all children and will also be invaluable for athletic activities. We are also keen to be able to use the track for off-road biking as well as more advanced trail biking.”

The school are also keen for the track to be open for public use, out of school hours.

Ms Simpson added: “We plan to allow the local community to have access to the field at weekends and during the evenings to use it for recreational activities such as walking, running and cycling. The finished track will be planted with trees and wild flowers creating a pleasant environment and a good wildlife habitat.”

The school is looking to raise around £18,000 to be able to do justice to the idea and they have already drawn up some potential plans with specialist contractors.

The school held a ‘Santa Run’ in December, to act as an awareness-raising launch to the project. From this, the school managed to raise a few hundred pounds to get the fund started.

Ms Simpson said: “The children loved the Santa Run. The School Council, who organised the event said it was fun, a great event and they thought it was fantastic that parents were invited to run with their children. They felt it was very successful and are keen to hold more events.”

“We have a few ideas up our sleeves, possibly a 24-hour fancy dress relay run and ride, and maybe a spring time ‘Chicken Run’.”

Although the track is still quite far from becoming a realty, the school have already been in talks with local businesses, in hope of sponsorship for the project and they have been delighted by the early response.

The school are also keen to meet with any individuals and groups that might be interested in using the facilities, especially if they have experience of grant applications.

If you would like to get in touch, contact headteacher Penny Simpson, via email [email protected] or site manager Martin Bunning [email protected]