Over £6,500 raised for School Playground
By Amy Pollock
Portavogie father Johnny Pankhurst has completed an incredible 110km charity run, completing 47 laps of the Kirkistown race track to raise funds for St Mary’s Primary School in Kircubbin. His efforts raised over £6,500, more than double his original £3,000 goal.
The money will go towards renovating the school playground and installing a new play tower, helping children enjoy outdoor play and supporting the development of pupils like Johnny’s son, Harry, who attends the school’s social communication unit.
Johnny, 43, said the challenge was inspired by the school’s support for Harry and his classmates:
“With the neurodiversities they have, those kids were incredible. They fuelled me through the toughest parts of the run.”
The run, held on Friday 4 April, turned into a full community event. Teachers, parents, local pupils, and running clubs like Portavogie Pacers, Ballyhalbert Harriers, and Ballygalget Athletics Club joined in to support Johnny on the 2.4km circuit.
Throughout the day, children from P1 to P7 ran laps with Johnny, and over 200 people attended a vibrant family colour run at the end, organised by the school’s parent support group, complete with a DJ and celebration.
Supporting the School and Community
Principal Sean Ennis praised Johnny’s effort and the community spirit:
“We’re blown away by the support and donations. The funds will help us create an outdoor space that encourages activity, play, and engagement with our seaside setting.”
Planned upgrades include:
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A new play tower
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Refreshed playground markings
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Additional outdoor play equipment
Johnny, who previously ran 100km from Portavogie to Portrush for Portavogie Primary School, hopes this latest fundraiser will inspire more local wellness events.
“I’d love to start a monthly community run at Kirkistown involving both schools and local businesses to bring the community together and promote health and wellbeing.”
Plans are already underway, with Johnny set to meet local councillors and teachers to bring the idea to life in 2025.
Learn More or Support Future Events:
🔗 Visit St Mary’s Primary School Kircubbin’s website or follow local community pages for updates on upcoming events.
