Fundraising was smiles better than expected (From Wharfedale Observer)

Fundraising was smiles better than expected

11:35am Thursday 15th September 2011 in Local news By Annette McIntyre

Hundreds of people took part in a Walk of Smiles to help a Horsforth schoolgirl raise thousands of pounds for a children’s hospice.

Families joined a host of celebrities to support 11-year-old Bethany Hare raise £11,000 for Martin House Hospice.

The event on Saturday proved so successful that the youngster and her family are already planning a repeat for September 8 next year.

Bethany’s fundraising has gone from strength to strength since she ran into copyright problems singing Smile in an online video.

The ensuing publicity won her support from around the world, and after smashing her original target of £5,500 she aimed for £11,000 – enough to run the hospice for one day.

Her proud mum Yvonne believes she has broken through that target and says she may now aim for £22,000.

Hundreds of people of all ages joined Bethany on the 10k walk from the Old Ball pub in Horsforth to Kirkstall Abbey and back again.

A number of celebrities also took part in the event – including Harry Potter actor Matthew Lewis, Yorkshire County cricketer Gerard Brophy, Olympic swimmer Anne Bochman, and Emmerdale actors Jack Downham and Millie Archer.

England footballer James Milner was unable to attend because he was playing in a match – but he sent a signed shirt for auction and is also sending a donation.

More than £2,100 was raised on the day from the barbecue, raffle and tombola at the Old Ball. But with money still to come in, it is expected the total will be more than £6,000 for the one event, allowing Bethany to smash her target again.

Yvonne said: “I am so proud of Bethany. I am sure she will be a fundraiser for life now.”

 People can still sponsor the event at justgiving.com/ smile-bethanyhare.