Britain’s biggest aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales was transformed into a racetrack with a difference as Poppyscotland launched its latest fundraising challenge The Big Poppy Bounce…
The initiative aims to raise thousands of pounds to help veterans bounce back into civilian life at events in Edinburgh and across Scotland in the build up to Armed Forces Day in June.
Naval Officers and crew from HMS Prince of Wales are working around the clock to put the finishing touches to the Royal Navy’s new 65,000 tonne flagship, but took time out to race the 280 metres along the flight deck in aid of Poppyscotland.
The Big Poppy Bounce is a sponsored space-hopper challenge for all the family. A series of races will take place in Edinburgh’s Inverleith Park on Saturday 15th June, as well anywhere else in the country where supporters choose to organise and run their own bounce. It is one of Poppyscotland’s newest events, highlighting the charity’s desire to fundraise throughout the year and not just around the traditional Appeal period in November.
Poppyscotland’s Head of Fundraising, Gordon Michie, said: “Poppyscotland exists to support those who have served, those still serving and their families and the Big Poppy Bounce will help our veterans bounce back into civilian life. We are encouraging families, youth groups, schools and friends across Scotland to join us at Inverleith Park on 15th June or to organise their own Big Poppy Bounce event during the month of June.
“We can provide some space hoppers and then it’s up you as to how you want to bounce. For example, you could have a bounce race over 100 metres, or challenge people to guess how many bounces you can rack up in five or even ten minutes. You can hold your event at your school, your work or your local hall – or you could try something more adventurous like we’ve done today… but just make sure you don’t bounce overboard!”
For more information, or to sign up for The Big Poppy Bounce visit the Poppyscotland website at www.poppyscotland.org.uk/bounce