Angmering students’ Zumba raises thousands

Energetic year-seven students at The Angmering School, in Station Road, generated almost £3,000 for Lepra during a Zumba workout session.

Their event raised a total of £2889.70 for Lepra, which fights disease, poverty and prejudice across the globe.

Anna Ansted, Lepra community fundraiser, said she was ‘stunned’ by the children’s determined efforts.

She said: “It was a privilege to talk to the students about Lepra and how they could make a difference and change people’s lives.

“They have done some brilliant fundraising and really enjoyed the Zumba workout with Sarah King from SKDance.”

Lepra focuses on people affected by some of the world’s oldest and neglected diseases.

Sarah Gittus, year-seven team leader, explained that the children had been inspired to tackle the zumbathon after hearing some of the tragic tales of people who are desperately poor, and living horrific conditions – people who Lepra offer vital and life-altering support to.

She said: “I am so proud of the year-sevens. They organised fund-raising events themselves, motivated by their concern for people with Lepra.

“Working as a team they have made a difference.”

Last year, Lepra changed the lives of more than 400,000 people and provided health education to a further 900,000 in India and Bangladesh.

Anna added: “Our work is just scratching the surface of need and we really appreciate this donation so that we can do more.”

Lepra works with many schools, community groups and churches to raise awareness about neglected diseases and people marginalised by society.

Working with governments, other non-governmental organisations and international agencies, Lepra identifies and bridges gaps in healthcare provision as well as helping people to rebuild their lives.

The charity was founded in 1924 and is celebrating its 90th anniversary this year.