SCHOOLCHILDREN took part in some festive fitness to raise money for the National Autistic Society.

Youngsters from Upton Cross and Pensilva Primary Schools ran a cumulative total of more than 220 miles as they lapped the field and the school playground - stopping to refuel with hot chocolates and cookies.

Pupils and adults donned christmas jumpers, reindeer antlers or elf costumes for the 30-minute fun run.

Organising the events were PE teacher Oli Jones and school governor Craig Vaughnley, who are both members of the East Cornwall Harriers.

Over the past year, Oli and Craig have been running an initiative called ‘Playground to 5k’ across four local primary schools.

‘The aim of the after school club is to get parents and their children running together,’ said Craig.

‘Its all about getting people out running and away from their i-Pads and games consoles. Its great to see the difference after six weeks, in week one we walk a lot, but by the end of the six weeks we run a lot!’

While the club’s final session saw a large group of parents and children strike out around Siblyback Lake, Oli and Craig came up with the idea of a charity Santa Fun Run, as both have family members affected by autism.

At Upton Cross School, pupils raised £80, and at Pensilva the runners bought in £50.

Oli, who oversaw the Upton Cross run, said ‘It was great to see so many children dressed in the festive spirit and having lots of fun, the PTSA organised hot chocolates and cookies for the children, so every lap they stopped to refuel and enjoy a warming hot chocolate.’

Further fun runs are set to take place at St Cleer and Dobwalls Primary Schools.

To support the National Autism Society visit https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/craigandoli