Publication: ph07032012

Photo Caption: Students from Aberdare Ranges Primary School will benefit from the Eastbourne Scouts firewalk.

Eastbourne Scouts are so determined to raise money for a school in Kenya, they want to break a world record.

And it’s not your normal world record. They want to set a new record for the most people firewalking consecutively at a single venue.

“The current record is 341,” says Eastbourne Scouts leader Mark Quinn. “We’re aiming for 1000 people over one fire.”

The record attempt will take place at Williams Park in Eastbourne on Saturday April 28 starting at 11am. If it rains, the attempt will take place on Sunday.

Mr Quinn says those taking part in the record attempt will comprise members of Eastbourne Scouts and other scout groups, plus people from corporates.

However members of the public are being invited to put their foot on it. They can take part by registering at www.nzpanda.co.nz/firewalk-2012

Mr Quinn says the organiser of the event is vastly experienced, having organised 250 firewalks. Participants will be briefed beforehand, while first aid and St John will be available for those needing help after the event.

However Mr Quinn says the risks are small. “It’s a personal challenge. You’re not actually walking on fire – it’s the embers.”

Eastbourne Scouts want to raise $30,000 to build a classroom at Aberdare Ranges Primary School, to help educate children from families dislocated by inter-racial violence.

Mr Quinn says radio station More FM has agreed to promote and MC the event. But community help is essential.

“Having 341 as the record, that’s not many. But 1000 - that’ll be pretty good.”