Tyneside toddlers raise money for children’s cancer charity in memory of former pupil

Over 220 primary school children are taking part in a sponsored walk on Tyneside to raise money for children’s cancer research in memory of a former pupil who passed away at the age of just four.

The children, aged between three and ten, from Front Street Primary School will take part in the milestone fifth annual Whickham Waddle today (Tuesday 12th July.)

They're hoping to raise over £2,000 this year for North of England Children’s Cancer Research (NECCR).

The Waddle was set up in 2012 by Front Street School teaching assistant Lynda Scott and former nursery teacher Sara Crumley, after their pupil Katie Slyderink was diagnosed with an aggressive form of brain tumour.

The walk will begin at the brand new Front Street Primary School in Whickham, progressing to the Hermitage Garden where the children will get to see flowers planted earlier this year in Katie’s memory, before finishing in Chase Park.

Alongside Katie’s former classmates, her identical twin sister Anna, now aged eight, and ten-year-old brother Thomas will also be taking part in the Waddle this year, with mum, Emma.

The children from Front Street Primary School will present a cheque for their sponsorship money to NECCR Chairman, Chris Peacock at a special assembly on Wednesday 20th July.