Update 29/11/2017 - Another message from Mark and Karen - in short - now that we've hit £3,000, we'll be closing the page soon so we can get the money to them. They have a revised plan and believe they can get up and running much sooner than first thought. Details below!

"The security is going to be addressed, by putting drop bars by main gate, weve added a security camera, we are going to put another gate just down the track. We are going to get all the burnt out containers removed, and the site cleared back to the ground. Instead of replacing the containers and barn, we are going to make an area that fits in with the wood better. We intend to put up two parachute covered areas, with fire pits, stools, benches and tables. Then add a good size wood store and a wooden structure which could be used as a kitchen/prep area.

Alongside this a sensory area for groups, that would lead to the stream.

We are hoping to make it more in keeping with the ethos of the wood.

Therefore with the amazing money you have raised on the JustGiving page and everything else you have done, plus large donations from family, plus equipment that has been donated from people, we are ready to move forward.

We are aware that we don't want to raise more than what is needed, as people are putting their faith in us that it will be used for the rebuilding of the project.

It has been very emotional for us and overwhelming, and would like everyone to know how much it has meant to us.

The next phase is the building of the new area, and using the money raised for materials and whatever is need for that.

Thank you to all for raising money, it wouldn't have been such a success without all of you.

We are looking to do a open day at end of March or beginning of April where we invite everyone out to the wood, so they can see the new look and the wood, there will be lots of food cooked and allow us to thank everyone. "

Update 20/11/2017 - A message from Mark and Karen, the folks we're supporting. :)

"Well a week has passed since our break in and fire and we have been blown away by people's support. I think that we have replied to all your well wishes and offers of support. If not please drop us an email.

The Just Giving page that was set up by one of our supporters has gone crazy. With that and some other donations we have raised almost £3000. We are now re equipping ourselves with what was burnt/stolen so are on track to be back in full swing very soon.

We are getting the site cleared and made safe over the next few weeks. Re building of some sort of our classroom barn will more that likely now be after Christmas. We would love to take the offers of help with this so will be in touch. Afterwards we plan a re-build get together so we can personally thank you all and give you the chance to see our amazing woodland where we work with some inspiring people.

We have been donated some equipment, been given advice on security and also been offered storage to keep us up and running. Some of our students have been getting stuck in this week clearing and skipping.

Sadly other people locally have also been targeted with break ins and damage, so we will be doing what we can to help them also.

Thank you so much to you all. Words are not enough. Karen & Mark."

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Update 15/11/2017 - Hi again, folks! Many thanks to all who have recently donated - we're very grateful for all the support shown for this fundraising initiative to help rebuild the March Wood Project facilities!

Please keep sharing the link on social media and spreading the word. We hope to have a number of other awareness campaigns running and all focused here, but every bit of exposure is helpful. :)

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UPDATE 13/11/2017 - Hi Everyone. The response has been amazing, so thanks very much!

However - the project needs a lot of money to replace what has been lost. To replace the equipment lost and rebuild the Outdoor Classroom barn is now estimated at around £15,000.

The March Wood Project team were going to set up their own Justgiving page, but due to the success of this one we and they have decided to keep the focus here and consolidate the donations. We've already blasted past our target, but anything else raised will obviously go straight to Mark and Karen at March Wood. Please keep spreading the news and let's see how far we can go to getting them back on their feet.

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Our son Joshua is aiming to raise money for the March Wood Project. They recently had their facilities vandalised and have lost all their equipment to theft and fire. :(

All money raised will go to the March Wood Project CIC.

This is a non-profit community organisation that offers education and therapeutic programmes from 100 acres of woodland in Kent. They work with young people, adults and families to help promote development in social and emotional well-being , confidence and self esteem , positive relationships , skills and knowledge , communication and self awareness,

As an extra incentive, Josh is going to a fancy dress party in December, and will agree to go as a Disney princess should the funding goal be met!

Help us embarrass him and raise money for this worthy cause by donating. Photos will be available after the event! Many thanks for all your help.