Mum praises Mansfield community response after locals rally to support giant snake

Covid the Cobra, made of hand painted pebbles, was making its way around Oak Tree Primary and Nursery school last week, when it was vandalised.

Mum Donna Buck, and daughter Charli, 8, appealed for help to rebuild the community project. Now thanks to a “fantastic response” the snake has gone from from 400 to 1200 rocks in a few days.

Donna said: “It’s been absolutely incredible, thanks to the Chad coverage we’ve got the momentum well and truly growing! We are now at over 1200 rocks! It's phenomenal to see. The estate has really got behind it.

“It has restored my faith in community, and shows our perseverance paid off. Now the kids will remember the fun they had during lockdown, not the hard times!”

Community support has come from Julie Hunter, manager at Cuckoo Birch Pub, donating £100 to cover the costs of prizes awarded for every 100th rock placed.

Donna said: “Julie has also pledged £500 to the school if we reach 5000 rocks! She is also going to donate a £50 Argos gift voucher to whoever places the 5000th rock.”

Resident Jessica Rayner, a mum of two, has ordered wristbands for children who have placed rocks.

“She has done this out of her own pocket and as a community would like to thank her,” Donna said.

“There have been a few special people busy too, Adele Spencer, who despite suffering a brain injury as a result of a car accident, has been sourcing gifts for every 100th rock.

“Kelly Woodward and her wonderful children Cordon, Aaliyah and Oscar have been busy clearing weeds, sweeping up, counting rocks and painting pebbles.

“Her youngest daughter Kylah-Grace is a little young yet but helped by being good whilst her mummy was so epic!

“Kelly Gregory, and her amazing children Keeley, Shayne, Scarlett and Charlea-Rose, and sister Hailie, have been there every day encouraging everyone to join in. Mrs Watson, the school head thinks it is wonderful, it makes people smile.”

Donna said: “We still need people’s help to feed the snake! Let’s see how far it can go!”