Police big game fund-raiser hit

Neighbourhood officers gave their support to the NSPCC's recent Big Board Game charity fund-raiser event.

Police took the initiative into care homes in the Bedlington area and invited older residents to take part and play their favourite board games while raising cash for a good cause, on March 31.

PC Mark Adamson from Bedlington Neighbourhood Team said: "We regularly visit care homes to offer crime prevention advice to our older residents and this charity initiative was one we wanted to support and felt older people would be keen to get involved too. They also had a lot of fun doing it, which was a great bonus.

"We're really pleased that we've surpassed our target of raising £500 for the NSPCC, by organising public events for the Big Board Game Day within libraries, shopping centres as well as care homes.

"Our police colleagues also put in a great deal of time and effort, they really rallied round and helped to get community support and also got involved by playing board games during their meal breaks to help reach our target.

"I'd certainly encourage people to give it a try next year."

Jackie Dawson Community Fundraising Manager for the North East said “Big Board Game Day was again a fantastic day for everyone who took part; with thousands of people coming together around the country to raise money for the NSPCC.

“Having Northumbria Police involved was fantastic. We would like to thank everyone who took part and donated during Big Board Game Day. Without donations from the public we wouldn’t be able to do the work we do to help children.

“Just £4 can pay for a child’s call to be answered by a trained Childline councillor; if you would like to fundraise for the NSPCC visit www.NSPCC.org.uk/fundraising.”

Officers during a care home visit