A WHOLE school took part in a charity run.

Pupils at Southway Junior School in Burgess Hill ran laps of their school playground in a sponsored ‘Elf Run’ to raise money for St Peter and St James Hospice.

The pupils donned festive Christmas elf hats for the event, which raised more than £1800 for the hospice charity.

Pete Newbold, head teacher at the school said: “Each year we decorate the school for the festive season.

“This year we had the added pleasure of doing the Elf Run in aid of St Peter and St James Hospice.

“The children and staff ran wearing their elf hats and festive jumpers to raise money for this truly worthy local cause.”

The charity provides hospice care to adults in Haywards Heath, Burgess Hill, Uckfield, Lewes and the surrounding villages, as well as supporting carers and families through the challenges of bereavement.

Johnny, a Year 6 pupil, said he had lots of fun.

He said: “I really enjoyed the Elf Run because we got to exercise in style.

“I tried really hard because I knew it was for a good cause.

“Everyone got an elf hat – even the teachers had one to wear during the run.”

Summer, another Year 6 pupil said: “ The Elf run was the best run I’ve had this year, even though my hat fell off.

“It has inspired me to do more running.”