CHILDREN at a Forest primary school nearly trebled their target with a sponsored run.

St White’s Primary School in Cinderford had hoped to raise £1,000 with their Relay for Life for Cancer Research.

All 276 children took part in the run and together raised £2,710.

Chairman of governors Matt Bishop said: “We didn’t know how it would go and we had a target of £1,000 but it was extremely well received and we are delighted with the total.

“I think everyone is affected by cancer or has a friend or relative who is affected by cancer.

“Every child spent half an hour running at least a mile.

“They went three times around the track with our sports co-ordinators Progressive Sports.

“It is a bit uphill-downhill but the children really enjoyed it.”

The school plans to make the run an annual event and next year it should be a bit easier.

Mr Bishop said: “We have the new-build which is coming on really well and next year when we do the relay there will be a new, dedicated sports area.”

Last week the children welcomed the Mayor of Cinderford, Cllr Max Coborn, who helped them with the election for the new school council and answered questions about his role.

It was also an opportunity to look back at what last year’s school council achieved.

One of their greatest successes was the creation of a healthy snack environment at school.

They also played a valuable part in interviewing and giving their views about the candidates who applied for senior leadership team posts earlier this year where they asked some very challenging questions.

During ‘Parliamentary Assemblies’ pupils highlighted their desire to have more sporting activities throughout the school day.

This has influenced the development of sports clubs before school and during lunchtimes, which are both proving very popular.

The retiring school council was thanked for its part in improving in the school.