Blackpool Students Embrace New Outdoor Facility Thanks to Wooden Spoon Charity
LancashireWe are thrilled to announce the official opening of Lancashire Wooden Spoon’s latest project at Devonshire Primary Academy in Blackpool. Early years pupils now have the luxury of engaging in various outdoor activities and learning opportunities under a gigantic covered Wooden Spoon canopy, protecting them from the region’s notoriously wet and windy weather.
This £20,000 project, which the school—situated in one of Blackpool’s most deprived areas—would otherwise not have been able to fund, exemplifies our commitment to transforming the lives of children through the power of rugby and community support.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony was a memorable event, graced by the presence of Lancashire Wooden Spoon’s Honorary President, former England and British & Irish Lions captain, and Chairman of World Rugby, Sir Bill Beaumont. We were also honored to have former England Women’s Rugby Union captain Gill Burns MBE lend her support.
Dan Simm, headteacher of Devonshire Primary Academy, expressed his gratitude, stating, “It has been an absolute pleasure working with Wooden Spoon who have gone out of their way to show such an interest and understanding of our school. We are also delighted that so many Wooden Spoon representatives were able to attend our opening ceremony.”
Alison Guest, Early Years Lead, highlighted the impact of the new facility, adding, “Without the generosity of Wooden Spoon we would not have this marvelous canopy. To say it has made a difference to our children would be an understatement.”
Martin Long, Chairman of Wooden Spoon Lancashire, shared his enthusiasm for the project, saying, “When we received a request for funding, it was clear that it met our criteria. It was a pleasure working with the school on this project, and on the day it was lovely to see all the smiling faces of the young children who will benefit from the canopy.”
This new addition not only provides a fun and stimulating environment for the children but also serves as a valuable resource for the school, promoting inclusivity and accessibility. It is projects like these that underscore Wooden Spoon’s dedication to supporting initiatives that enhance the lives of children and young people.
For more information on Wooden Spoon and our ongoing projects, visit Wooden Spoon Charity.
