Each year scores of people break out from Chelmsford prison. It happens always with the permission of the governors and raises thousands of pounds for charities across Essex in the process.

The annual charity Jailbreak organised by Essex Association of Boys' Clubs takes place every summer and organisers are looking for a sponsor and more teams to take part as it celebrates its 25th year.

Samantha Greenland and Tim Fuller from Basildon Leos pick up the award for the Best Fancy Dress in the Jailbreak.

For those unfamiliar with the concept of a jailbreak, teams of three are sponsored in a variety of categories, such as furthest distance travelled, to escape the jail without spending any money.

And in the past teams have travelled as far afield as Washington DC and one team, who still holds the record, managed to get as far as Rangoon, Burma in the 15 hours allocated for escape.

Graham Goodchild, Fundraising Executive for EABC, said: "A sponsor will take out the costs of running the event so that everything that is raised on the day goes to charity and is not eroded by the on-going costs."

He added: "Organising the event takes place between February and October but they have very little to do. Input is largely down to them and they will get promoted throughout the year."

Organisers say they want to make this year's the best one yet and are hoping for teams to smash all previous records of distance and money raised.

Last year's event, sponsored by Lancaster Volvo Brentwood and Southend, raised £11,000, which is divided between the association and charities of the teams taking part.

The awards ceremony from the last Jailbreak in October also took place recently with Basildon Police winning the furthest travelled category for making it to Essex in Connecticut. The 'Stansted Friskers'team raised the most money with sponsorship worth £2,700.

For more information about taking part or becoming a sponsor contact Graham Goodchild on 01245 264783 or e-mail essex@essexboysclubs.freeserve.co.uk

Published Friday, January 3, 2003

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