STUDENTS from Okehampton College braved poor weather for their annual trek on Dartmoor and raised thousands of pounds for charity. About 1,400 youngsters took part in the round circuit walk, staring and finishing at the school, and sixth form students helped out by acting as marshals on the moor. Principal Daryll Chapman said it was an achievement for the college. ?I don?t think there?s many schools in the country who would dare to take 1,400 kids onto Dartmoor,? he said. ?Friday was even more exceptional because the weather closed in.? The route was changed slightly for safety reasons and the young walkers picked up the pace to finish by early afternoon. Many students raise sponsorship for the walk, and over the last four years the college has raised more than £50,000 for good causes, which the students choose by a democratic process. This year the youngsters are expected to add another £10,000 to £12,000 to the total. In the past the money has gone to a variety of charities at home and abroad, many supporting children. The college has sponsored places in an African orphanage, and students were able to receive reports of what their money achieved. ?This year some money will go towards a new minibus, to support our own kids, but the vast majority will go to charities of the students? choice,? Mr Chapman said. ?It?s a good opportunity to have a day when the college as a whole stops to consider people less fortunate than ourselves.?
