'I am going to donate it to charity' - Blackpool's Elite Competitions treasure hunt sparks wave of generosity
"Within hours we had winners donating money to charity, supporting local sports clubs and giving back to causes close to their hearts.”
A community treasure hunt organised by Elite Competitions yesterday has sparked a wave of generosity across the Fylde Coast.
There was a grand total of £2,000 spread amongst Blackpool with the local community invited down to take part to find the prizes through the day.
The lucky winners who claimed the boxes first have decided to pay forward their prizes to local grassroots sports clubs and charities or treat themselves to something nice with the cash.
There were 5 boxes placed, the first containing £100, second, £200, third £300, fourth £400 and the final box contained £500 plus £500 worth of tickets to Elite Competitions latest house competition.
Steven, who is 37, from Poulton braved the rain to the last drop hidden at Poulton Football Club where he secured himself the top prize of £500 plus the house tickets. Rather than pocketing the cash for himself, he has chosen to share his win.
Steven said: “I am going to donate the full amount to the football club itself, my son plays football for them and would like to give back and help out where I can.”
20-year-old Niamh won herself £400 in Blackpool town centre and chose to treat herself to something nice with the cash and go shopping.
At Jean Stansfield park, Chris discovered the £300 box hidden in a tree. Rather than keeping the money, he plans to invest it back into the local sporting community.
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Chris said: “I am not going to put the money in my pocket, I would rather purchase some cricket coaching equipment from our local cricket equipment supplier, to enhance our training sessions for the juniors who play at the club.”
An unpaid volunteer at Fylde Cricket Club, he added: “Me and the other coaches are trying to make the sport of cricket more enjoyable for everyone and having the right equipment helps tremendously.”
Ryan, 27, from Cleveleys found the second box hidden on Cleveleys promenade and claimed himself the £200 prize. Rather than keeping the prize for himself, he has pledged to donate the amount to charity.
Ryan said: “I am currently training for the London Marathon next year. I am running for Asthma and Lung UK . I am going to donate the £200 to the charity.”
The first prize of £100 was found by work colleagues who were competing with each other to see who could get to the box first. Thomas, 32, and Callum, 28, chose to split the prize between themselves and enjoy their share.
Elite Competitions CEO Alex Beckett said: We expected people to be excited about finding the prizes, but what surprised us was how many immediately wanted to help others.
"Within hours we had winners donating money to charity, supporting local sports clubs and giving back to causes close to their hearts.
"It shows that kindness really can be contagious. When one person gives back, it often inspires others to do the same."