Events in Turkey, Syria and neighbouring countries have been incredibly challenging since the first earthquake shook that region last month.

The death toll continues to rise and further earthquakes have exasperated the situation. 

It is clear talking to all sections of our community that we wish to show our support to the people embroiled in the disaster.

Aid is getting through to survivors, despite the challenges of working in the affected region. 14 DEC charities and their local partners are working with locally-led relief efforts to provide medical treatment, shelter, winter survival kits and ensuring people have food and clean water.

Donations from the UK public are allowing DEC charities to scale up their humanitarian response, deliver lifesaving aid and support survivors both now and in the weeks and months ahead.

On Saturday 18^th March at 9am, we would like as many MCS parents, pupils and OWs to join together and take part in a 5K Park Run at University Parks to raise money and awareness for the regions affected. The event takes place at University Parks, South Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3RF. To show our solidarity, we ask that those taking part and supporting this event wear red.

We ask that all pupils below sixth formers are accompanied by a responsible adult. Numerous staff are taking part in the event including the Master, the Head of the Junior School and the Charities Coordinator! Mr Penton, who will be wearing a red MCS jacket, will be on hand during the event should any questions or issues arise. It is noted that we are viewing this as a fun run and those taking part may do so at their own pace and may participate in groups if they prefer.

The Parents’ Association will be heavily supported at the run and our thanks go to Nikki Clarke, Sarah Dolan and other members of the PA who have supported this idea. It should be noted that this is also a wonderful opportunity to get into training for the 10K Town and Gown which takes place on Sunday 14^th May in University Parks. If you have never participated in a parkrun before you need only register once to run at any of their events throughout the world. You may also run without registering, but they ask that you do not cross the official finish line and you won’t receive a time. For registration, please visit parkrun.com/countries and select England.

We look forward to seeing as many of you there as possible and many thanks again for your overwhelming generosity and support of charitable events and ventures.