Fantastic fundraising efforts in memory of Harrison

In a moving tribute to a much-loved pupil, the Manorfield Primary and Nursery School community has come together in extraordinary ways to honour the memory of Harrison, who sadly passed away in October 2024. They have raised nearly £25,000 for Shooting Star Children’s Hospices so far – an astonishing achievement!

Harrison, known for his cheeky wit, boundless energy and infectious smile, left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. Diagnosed with a brain tumour in Year 1, Harrison showed remarkable strength and resilience, returning to school full-time and ringing the remission bell in March 2021. Tragically, a more aggressive form of cancer returned at the end of Year 5, and despite the best efforts of medical professionals, Harrison passed away, leaving a profound void in the lives of his family, teachers and classmates. But Harrison’s spirit continues to inspire.

This year, Manorfield staff, pupils, and members of the wider community have taken on a series of fundraising challenges in support of Shooting Star, as we supported Harrison and his family during his final months.

A 14-mile trek across the North Downs was completed by staff and Harrison’s parents on what would have been his birthday – a day filled muddy boots and laughter, and two of Harrison’s teachers ran the Brighton Marathon, raising vital funds and awareness for Shooting Star.

Harrison’s classmates and their younger siblings took part in a 3k run, showing incredible heart and determination, and his Cub leader, who also teaches at Horley Infants, organised fundraising activities at her school.

• Theatre colleagues of Harrison’s father rallied behind the cause, with bucket collections organised during performances of A Streetcar Named Desire and The Last Laugh. Actors Paul Mescal and Damien Williams delivered heartfelt speeches to audiences in support of Shooting Star.
  
• Meanwhile, the cast of The Comedy About Spies have launched their own fundraising campaign, making nightly speeches and collecting donations for Shooting Star throughout a week in July.

Though Harrison’s parents, Carina and Mike, participated in many of these events, they are quick to emphasise that this story is not about them. “It was really the school that did all the work, the staff, the teachers, Harrison’s friends. We were just lucky enough to be his parents,” they said. “People loved Harrison, and this is their way of saying thank you.”

To support the ongoing fundraising efforts for Shooting Star, visit the JustGiving page here. Do you fancy getting involved in fundraising yourself? Have a look at some upcoming challenges here.