Higham villagers refuse to let coronavirus stop their fund-raising

Residents in the Pendleside village are used to hosting popular fund-raising events which draw crowds several times a year however with the May Fair, Christmas Fair and Scarecrow Festival all cancelled due to coronavirus restrictions, the Events Committee ran a Virtual Treasure Hunt instead.

Organisers split a map of the village into 600 squares and virtually buried cash prizes under three of them – and the winning squares were then drawn at random.

Hundreds of people took part in the online event which ran from the end of August to the end of October and successfully raised £4,000 for St John’s Church.

Vicar of St John’s, the Rev. Lesley Hinchliffe, who drew the winners in a Facebook live event, said: “Many, many congratulations to those of you who have won the prizes but many grateful thanks for those of you who have taken part in this treasure hunt.

“May the Lord richly bless you because you’ve surely blessed St John’s Church, Higham. Watch out for more fun fund-raising events.”

Terry Butterfield, chairman of Higham Events Committee, said: “It’s been absolutely brilliant. We never imagined that an online competition would replace our usual events and they’re greatly missed but we’re so pleased that the treasure hunt was such a success and has brought in much needed funds to support our lovely church.”

Louise Douglas scooped the £1,000 first prize, Julie Sidhu received £100 for second place and Andy McIlroy £50 for third.

Mr Butterfield said that the committee may consider running similar fundraisers in the future.

“Although we are hoping to get back to our regular crowd pleasing events once it’s safe to do so – because we love to see people enjoying our village and having lots of fun – we might be tempted to do another online draw, after this one proved to be such a hit," he added.