CHILDREN at St Joseph's Catholic Primary School in Winsford are celebrating after raising a phenomenal £3,560 for St Luke's.

Pupils collected the sponsorship after completing a Rudolph Run for the hospice.

Altogether, 32 schools took part in the fundraising event and St Joseph's were congratulated for raising the most money.

Michelle Timm, PE co-ordinator at St Joseph's, said: "I am always looking at ways of keeping the children active and promoting health and fitness.

"I thought it would be wonderful to take part in the St Luke’s Hospice Rudolph Run. St Luke’s provided the children with antlers and a red nose in return for sponsorship.

"Each class took turns to come out onto the school field to complete as many laps as possible. Year 6 children supported our younger nursery children. Teaching staff got involved and everyone had great fun.

"Our school families were very supportive. Sadly, many have first hand experience of the wonderful service St Luke’s provides. "Some individual families raised over £200. We were staggered at the final amount which is the most any primary school in Cheshire has raised.

"It was a great event and as a school we are very thankful to our school family and all the people who supported the children."

Pupils are now looking forward to the Elf Run in December this year.

Angela Slack, hospice community partnerships manager, said: “We at St Luke’s are absolutely delighted to have the support from St Joseph’s and other primary schools for our Rudolph Run.

"This is the first year St Joseph’s have taken part in the Rudolph Run and we’re thrilled and very grateful that a local school has raised over £3,500, well done to everyone.

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"The money raised from this campaign will continue to help us provide vital care for local people and their families.”

Children were praised for their efforts on social media.

Gerry Doherty said: "That is a fantastic amount of money. Well done to all our wonderful children and parents."

Shirley Montgomery said: "No wonder they are so proud of themselves. A fantastic amount raised and the hospice will be delighted."