School pupils play mass Simon Says game for charity

Thousands of schoolchildren across Hampshire are taking part in a game of Simon Says to support a bereavement charity.

More than 40 schools have signed up for the event in classrooms later.

It is being held to mark the 25th anniversary of Romsey charity Simon Says, which supports bereaved children and young people.

Caroline, from Portchester, said the charity helped to make happy memories for her daughter Valentina, whose sister Emilia died in 2020.

The three-year-old contracted strep A and died from sepsis, just as the first Covid lockdown was imposed.

Caroline said: "I think sometimes children worry about upsetting their parents in that situation, so they might bottle it up even more.

"So by going to Simon Says, they've got the opportunity to maybe tell one of the volunteers their worries if they want to, or just talk openly."

The charity suggested that Valentina, now aged 13, made a bracelet with beads representing aspects of Emilia's personality.

"We had an orange one because it was her favourite colour," Caroline said. "We had a blue one because she liked sharks.

"We have made so many lovely memories through Simon Says as well, like we've done... pantos and boat trips.

"Valentina associates those happy memories with going to Simon Says and the support group."

About 12,000 pupils will play the Simon Says game on Friday, donating funds to the charity.

Its education lead Debs Adams said: "We are incredibly excited to host Hampshire's biggest game of Simon Says.

"Not only will it be a fun and memorable event, but it will also help raise awareness of the vital support we provide."