Students walk to save counsellor's job (From Bournemouth Echo)

Students walk to save counsellor's job

11:30am Tuesday 24th November 2009 in

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TWO Blandford students walked 20 miles in the rain on Saturday (21) to help save the job of a school counsellor.

Alex McLean, 17, and Nathan Keightley, 16, walked around the perimeter of the Milldown for over five hours, raising more than £550 for a fund to keep The Blandford School counsellor, Ken Reynolds, in post.

Sixth former Alex said he was among the hundreds of students helped by Mr Reynolds and had been inspired to help by news of funding shortfall from his employers, the Blandford Youth Trust.

"We just heard what was happening what was happening to Ken and decided we were going to go for it. I think the kids here need someone like him. "If it wasn't for Ken, I don't think I would have come back to school," said Alex.

Mr Reynolds said the Blandford Youth Trust was in talks with 11 potential backers including local authorities in a bid to secure year-on-year funding and said he would welcome enquiries from businesses.

"Anyone who comes on board will know they are doing some good in the local community. We are encouraging young people to develop skills needed to play an active role in society," said Mr Reynolds.

To find out more, call The Blandford School on 01258 451121.