Over Primary School’s “Willy Wonky” World Book Day Event raises funds for new playground

Over Primary School in Cambridge brought a touch of chocolate-filled magic to the community this World Book Day with a “Willy Wonky” themed fundraising event that delighted pupils, families and local residents.

Inspired by the classic story, the school transformed donated chocolate bars into its own special “Willy Wonky” bars. Hidden inside 27 of the bars were special golden tickets, with prizes generously donated by local businesses across the Cambridge area.

Prizes included experiences and treats from a range of community supporters, including a local ice skating rink (Cambridge Ice Arena) a Highland cow farm in nearby Willingham (Highland Cow Cottage) the popular local cafés Teabellies and Lot25, and several other businesses who contributed to the celebration.

The event proved hugely popular, with more than 550 chocolate bars sold to pupils and residents in and around the village of Over. The golden ticket excitement created a real buzz throughout the school and wider community, making the event one of the most memorable World Book Day celebrations the school has hosted.

All proceeds from the chocolate bar sales will go towards a major fundraising effort to build a brand-new playground for the children at Over Primary School.

Hayley Bowles, Chair of the Friends of Over Primary School (FOPS) fundraising committee, said:

“We were absolutely delighted with the response from our pupils, families and the wider community. The excitement around the golden tickets was fantastic and it really brought the spirit of World Book Day to life. We’re incredibly grateful to the local businesses who donated prizes and to everyone who bought a chocolate bar to support the school. Every pound raised brings us closer to creating a wonderful new playground space for our children to enjoy for years to come.”

The Friends of Over Primary School would like to thank all of the local businesses and residents who helped make the event such a success.

Community Support Needed for New Playground

Over Primary School is currently working to raise £80,000 to build a new playground for its pupils. The planned playground will provide a safe, modern and engaging outdoor space where children can play, socialise and develop important physical skills.

Local residents and businesses who would like to support the project through donations, sponsorship or fundraising partnerships are warmly encouraged to get in touch.

For more information or to contribute to the playground fund, please contact:

Hayley Bowles
Chair, Friends of Over Primary School (FOPS)
Email: chair@fops.org.uk

Together, the school hopes the community can help turn the dream of a new playground into a reality for the children of Over Primary School.

Written by: Clare McAllister