Thousands of balloons were released
into the air as part of Handsworth
Forum's annual One Big Balloon Race. People entered the race
from all over
the world hoping to land the grand prize of a night out with
Sheffield's own
Sean Bean at a London film premiere!
The Handsworth born Hollywood star was
delighted to support his local
community forum and help raise money for children's charities.
Race
organiser Michael Brocklebank said, "Everyone knows the
name 'Sean Bean' and
the films he has been in, but not everyone knows that Sean is
a big believer
in the local community. He is 100% behind the Forum and what
we are trying
to do in Handsworth, that's why he donated this fantastic prize."
The winner of the race was Jill Harrington
from Michigan, USA whose balloon
travelled to Peasholm Park in Scarborough, a distance of 75miles
as the crow
flies. Upon hearing the news Jill said, "I couldn't be more
excited even if
I had won the lottery! The Balloon Race is a wonderful idea."
Two of the
three runners up came from Japan and the other was from Handsworth,
Sheffield.
There was also a prize awarded to Sam
Jones, aged 12yrs from Crosspool who
returned the winning balloon. Sam was on holiday with his family
in
Scarborough when he discovered the prize winning balloon. The
Forum gave him
a digital camera which arrived in time for his birthday.
The balloon race was the highlight of
the Handsworth Fun Day held in July
and raised £3000 for Sheffield Children's hospital, Help
a Hallam Child and
Bluebell Wood Children's Hospice. For more information on the
Forum go to
www.handsworthforum.org.uk
------
Information about the Balloon Release,
which happened on July 22, 2006:
Take part in one of Sheffields
biggest balloon releases and win a
night at a London premiere with Sean
Bean! It costs just £1 to enter
the One Big Balloon Race and if you
win the race, then you get to
experience the Hollywood lifestyle and
pull up to the red carpet in a
limousine with Sheffields own
Sean Bean. This is a once in a life time
prize!
On the 22nd of July 2006 will see the
release of thousands of balloons
from the Handsworth Fun Day at Handsworth
Park, Sheffield in a bid
to travel the furthest distance and
win our Star Prize. The day will
be packed with events to-do and see
and will truly be a day to reflect