Boy, 10, helps raise £3,800 in seven-hour cycle for playground

A PUPIL from Badgemore Primary School in Henley rode on-and-off for seven hours on a static bike to raise money for a school playground, writes Lucie McHugh.

Raffi Barcella, 10, and his dad, Marcus, completed the challenge in Market Place and raised almost £3,800 for a redevelopment of the school playground.

They completed the challenge on Saturday, June 21, and Raffi cycled for 45 minutes in each of the seven hours, with Mr Barcella riding the full duration with one break.

Raffi was supported by a team of his school friends, who would take over cycling on his bike when he needed a rest.

It was the first part of a challenge which will next involve Raffi travelling to Tanzania with his father in August where they will cycle 100km through the Masaai Plains before climbing Mount Meru, Africa’s fifth-highest mountain at 4,562m. Raffi said: “It was so hot, and really tiring but everyone was so kind — people I didn’t even know stopped to say well done or gave money. It made me feel really proud. I think my favourite moment was when someone stopped and gave me an ice cream — it was exactly what I needed!”

Raffi is aiming to raise £4,000 to contribute towards the construction of a new bespoke outdoor play space, which has been designed by Kaley Hayes, of Early Years Pro Solutions, and Matt McKinnon of Playball Henley.

Ms Hayes and Mr McKinnon have incorporated input from students, teachers and staff to come up with a design.

It is hoped that the new playground will incorporate learning opportunities into the outdoor space, such as nature zones, sensory paths and problem-solving activities, suitable for all ages.

To donate, visit www.just
giving.com/page/raffibarcella