PUPILS at a Thorncombe school raised have nearly £1,500 and smashed their 100km target in a cycling challenge.

Children at St Mary’s Primary School took part in A Wheely Good Relay at the end of last month, completing as many laps of the school grounds as they could within one hour.

This was an event organised by the PFA to raise funds for new equipment for the children to use in school.

The school grounds were measured and a target of 100km was set. The children’s sponsorship raised £1498.20.

Vikki O’Hare, school secretary, said: “When the results were totted we found out that actually 297 km had been covered.

“Children were also able to use a specialised smoothie-making bike, donated by Magdalen Environmental Education Centre, to provide delicious smoothies, clocking up the kilometres as they prepared them.”

Tanya Robinson, head teacher, said: “It was hard work to keep going for an hour but children took part with smiles on their faces and were so pleased with their achievements. A big thank you to the PFA for organising this event as money raised will provide new and exciting resources.”