STUDENTS at Sir William Romney’s School in Tetbury, laced-up their running shoes last week in a bid to encourage other schools to take part in the Sport Relief 2016 mile.

Wearing fancy dress and Sport Relief tops, the pupils, aged between 11-16, completed the mile run to show how easy it is to take part and raise some money for this year’s campaign.

John Farr, PE curriculum co-ordinator, said: “Every year we look to find out ways of making our mile a bit different and dressing up is so easy.

“The effort everyone has put in today is tremendous and there have been lots of laughs.

“I am sure we will see a few outfits making another star appearance when we do our mile in March.”

The school was approached to raise awareness about this year’s mile event having gained a reputation as a major fundraiser for both Comic Relief and Sport Relief in previous years.

“It’s a great way to raise awareness for an important subject and to exercise together”, said pupil Kara Lawrie-Plews. “Everyone is interested in Sport Relief as it is important and you can’t deny or undermine how useful it is for people to come together to support the campaign.”

Among those in fancy dress was Joshua Miles who ran in the mile as Stargazer, a superhero of his own invention.

He said: “I know it will be hard work as I have run a mile before but it feels good to help the charity.”

Teachers can sign up for a free school fundraising kit full of money-making ideas, posters and learning resources at sportrelief.com/schools

Cirencester is holding its third Sport Relief Mile event on Sunday, March 20, at the Royal Agricultural University, starting from the Atrium Café.

From March 18-20, the Sainsbury’s Sport Relief Games are taking place across the South West and anyone can walk, run, swim or cycle to raise money to help people in the UK and the world’s poorest communities who live incredibly tough lives.

To find out more visit sportrelief.com