More than 100 people took part in a 24-hour Danceathon to remember a much-loved former college student.
Earlier this month performing arts students and staff at Preston College came together to honour the memory of Nicole Parker who unexpectedly passed away just before Christmas last year.
They danced their way through the danceathon to help raise funds for the North Lancashire Down’s Syndrome Family and Carer Group, a cause close to Nicole’s family.
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The Danceathon began at 10am on 12 February and finished at 10am on 13 February, where students danced continuously for 24 hours, through varied themes of music.
Their goal was to raise £2,000 for North Lancashire Down’s Syndrome Family and Carers Group however, the event far exceeded expectations bringing in a total of £4,707.25.
Students and staff from the college took part in the danceathon, as well as 10 from Loyne School, 30 from Tramshed and 10 from North Lancashire Down Syndrome Support Group.
There was also eight of Nicole’s friends and family that attended throughout the duration of the event.
Nicole had a deep passion for the performing arts, and her creativity, energy, and spirit left a lasting impact on everyone who knew her with tutors saying the loss of Nicole has been felt deeply across campus.
Nicole’s Dad commented saying that Nicole would have absolutely loved the event.
Laura Fenton, practitioner for visual and performing arts at Preston College said: “We are very proud of everyone who came to support the event, and all the money we raised for a fantastic cause. It felt like there was a real sense of community across the college.”
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