Three school heads from the Moorland Federation are trading classrooms for countryside trails as they cycle across Exmoor to raise essential funds for Somerset’s air ambulance service.
On Tuesday, December 2, educators Mr James (Head of Dunster First School), Mr Jon Moise-Souch (Head of Langford Budville Primary School), and Mrs Lucy Walker-Blair (Head of St Dubricius First School, Porlock) will undertake a challenging route linking all eight schools in the Moorland Federation—a collective of rural primary and first schools serving West Somerset and Exmoor communities.
Beginning their journey in Porlock, the trio will cycle through Dunster, Timberscombe, Cutcombe, Exford, Dulverton Junior, All Saints, and finally Langford Budville. The route will navigate Exmoor’s rugged and hilly terrain, with pupils and staff eagerly awaiting to cheer at each school stop.
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Mr James highlighted the critical role of the air ambulance service: “Their work across West Somerset is incredible and truly lifesaving. Given our rural setting, timely access by road can be difficult, but the air ambulance is a crucial emergency responder for many local families.”
Funded entirely by public donations, the Somerset Air Ambulance provides rapid emergency medical services to remote areas where traditional access may be slow or impossible.
Mr Moise-Souch added, “We wanted to raise both awareness and funds. Our students are thrilled to contribute, creating posters, banners, and organizing mini fundraisers at each school.”
The Moorland Federation encompasses schools in Dulverton, Exford, Cutcombe, Timberscombe, Dunster, Porlock, and Langford Budville. This cycling challenge showcases the Federation’s core values of teamwork, community, and courage.
Mrs Pravato, Chief Operations Officer of the Moorland Federation, said, “This event perfectly represents our Federation’s spirit—it allows us to unite, make a difference, and express our gratitude to a service we deeply value.”
Donations can be made online via the Moorland Federation’s website. Updates from the ride will be shared on their social media channels.