College prefects pledge to help inspired by teacher

Prefects are joining forces to help raise money for a vital cancer charity which stepped in to help a much-respected teacher.

Marlborough Boys’ College Prefect Team will join in Cancer Society Marlborough’s biggest fundraiser tomorrow night- Relay for Life.

And joining them at Blenheim’s A&P Park will be Classics teacher Peter Oliver who has been through his own cancer battle.

Marlborough Boys’ College Head Boy Jack Flynn says taking part is a chance to help support the vital work done by staff at the society.

“Relay for Life first brought to my attention by a long serving member of staff – Mr Peter Oliver. Unfortunately, like so many great people he has been touched by cancer.

“The motivation to support Relay for Life for many of our team members has come from personal experience and appreciation for the work the Cancer Society does.

“It is a fantastic way to be able to support their vital work.”

Marlborough Boys’ College have supported the students’ bid to help. On Wednesday, the student council organised a school-wide mufti day, raising money for both Relay for Life and CanTeen.

The student council has also donated $750, taking the team’s fundraising total to just short of $3500.

The Relay for Life fund raiser gets underway at Blenheim's A&P Park on Friday evening. Photo: File

Jack says the team of 18 are aiming to raise $4500, raising their initial target after their teacher quickly secured sponsorship pledges.

“Mr Oliver’s personal motivation and passion certainly shone brightly with Mr Oliver raising almost $1,900 to date with his aim being $2,500.

“When I created the team, I set our goal at a respectable $1,500. Shortly after Mr Oliver approached me and said I may need to look at increasing this goal.

“I logged on to see Mr Oliver had single handedly exceeded the Marlborough Boys’ College Prefect Team goal.”

“With one in three people being affected by cancer the unfortunate reality is any one of us could need this vital support network.

“We’re joining Relay For Life to celebrate cancer survivors and carers, remember loved ones lost to cancer, and fight back by raising awareness and funds. Every step we take around the track symbolises our unstoppable fight to create a future with less cancer.”

Relay For Life Marlborough helps people in the community through Cancer Society Marlborough's support services, health promotion programmes and contribution to cancer research.

Relay for Life gets underway at 6pm on Friday. Organisers are hoping the public will turn out in force and enjoy the Kete Kai Market where a who will have a range of crafts and food stalls are on offer for participants and spectators alike.

To donate to the Marlborough Boys’ College Prefects Team visit

https://marlborough.relayforlife.org.nz/t/marlboroughboyscollegeprefects