Essex

Students monopolise First buses

First in Essex supports Monopoly run in aid of charity

Colchester students are taking to the buses to visit the sites of the countys Monopoly board, as part of a sponsored fancy dress event.

First East England is providing free travel to nine BTEC business students from Colchester Institute, including five from Colchester itself, who are raising money for the charity Headway. The group set off from Colchester on April 28.

Organiser Louise Rout, 18, said: "Within the course criteria it is essential for the class to complete an event whereby we prove that we are able to work well in a team environment.

"The group will work together to travel to all the sites that are included on the Essex Monopoly board, from Layer Marney Tower to Southend Pier. We hope to dress in Monopoly-themed costumes, like we could include top hats and tails or characters from the monopoly board itself.

"We're really looking forward to completing the event, as we feel it is a really worthwhile cause. Our aim is to raise the profile of Headway, Essex; the fantastic work they do " and raise lots of money in the process'.

Between them, the class hope to raise £1,000 for the charity set up to help those affected by brain injuries

Alan Pilbeam, MD for First East England, said he was enthusiastic to be able to offer the support of First.

"We were contacted by Louise who told us about the proposed fundraising " there was no question that we wanted to do whatever we could. As a leading provider of public transport in Essex, providing free travel for the students was an obvious way we could help.

"This is a fantastic and exciting way to raise money - everyone here is rooting for the group, and wish them all the luck in the world with their run.'

Mary Beverley, Fundraising Officer, for Headway said the charity was delighted the students chose them to benefit from their project.

Ms Beverley said: "We are very excited about their choice of challenge and wish them well in their planning and fundraising. We are grateful to all those who are helping the students achieve their target, including First".

Graham Meek, Business Studies Tutor for The Colchester Institute, said: "The group has been tasked with raising money for, and the profile of, Headway Essex. They have planned an event and so far have gained sponsorship from a number of local and national businesses, all of which will contribute to the success of the exercise.

"It's exciting to see a group of students so engaged in such a worthwhile activity.'

Taking part in the Monopoly run are Louise Rout (18) of Colchester, Michael Dowman (18) of Brightlingsea, Jasmine Spalding (17) of Colchester, Sam Pierson (19) of Colchester, Michael Putt (19) of Braintree, Jack Adamson (21) of Colchester, Nick Moakes (18) of Colchester, Lucy Vearer (21) of Colchester and Melissa Caskey (18) of Ipswich.