Youngster undertakes 12-hour drumming challenge for charity

Residents of Devon and Cornwall have engaged in various challenges throughout the region to generate contributions for BBC Children in Need. This charitable organization is dedicated to enhancing the well-being of underprivileged children and adolescents across the UK. A student from a Devon school is participating in a “drumathon,” which involves 12 consecutive hours of drumming. Alfie, a 10-year-old from Plymouth, commenced his performance for classmates at 08:30 GMT. His mother, Karen, stated: “I’m so excited for him because it’s something he’s wanted to do for a long time – I hope he does really well.” She added, “Even before we got him a drum kit, he was always drumming, whether at a dinner table or anywhere, he was always tapping his feet and hands.” Musical ensembles, such as the Plymouth City Brass group, are also participating to assist Alfie with his fundraising efforts. His school described Alfie as a “very talented and determined” pupil, noting that a concert was scheduled for a later time. The school further commented, “He is about to undertake his grade eight drumming exam and wanted to raise money for Children in Need in a unique way.” Earlier in the current month, a contingent from BBC Cornwall and BBC Devon successfully finished a 24-mile (39km) swimming challenge to benefit Children in Need. Collectives from each BBC local radio station collectively swam 1,000 miles (1,609km) to generate funds for the organization. The Cornwall team, comprising Julie Skentelbery, Hannah Stacey, David Dixon, Lou Symons, Daphne Skinnard, and Francesca Carpenter, utilized swimming pools throughout the county. Devon’s five-member team, consisting of Caroline Densley, James Vickery, Charlotte Cory, Lucy Bolt, and Caroline Adams, commenced their swim on 4 November, with both groups concluding the distance within a four-day period. In observance of Children in Need day, students from Perranporth Primary School participated in a “PerranPudsey” run while wearing their pyjamas. Headteacher Alister Johnson stated: “All the children will be doing a very exciting fun run around our school field.” He added, “They’ve all been sponsored and raised a huge amount of money – almost £4,000.” For updates, follow BBC Cornwall on X, Facebook, and Instagram. Similarly, follow BBC Devon on X, Facebook, and Instagram. Story ideas can be submitted to spotlight@bbc.co.uk. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content found on external sites. Information regarding our approach to external linking is available.