STUDENTS chose a fun, colourful and messy way to raise more than £1,000 for two causes close to their hearts.

Pupils at Bournemouth's Oak Academy took part in a mile-long Rainbow Run to raise money for the school’s adopted charity, Ashley’s Birthday Bank, and for the Jack Gudge memorial fund, set up in memory of the former Oak student who died earlier this year.

Their efforts have raised more than £1,000 so far, with funds still coming in.

Principal Richard Burgas said: "The Rainbow Run was a huge success and I’d like to praise all the students and our staff for their enthusiasm and brilliant fundraising efforts.

"We are a very close-knit community and pull together to support causes that our close to our heart.

"Everyone at the school was deeply saddened to hear of Jack Gudge’s passing and this event gave us the opportunity to support the memorial fund set up in his name.

"Ashley’s Birthday Bank has also been our chosen charity for the year and does sterling work in ensuring children from poorer families in Bournemouth get to receive gifts at Christmas and for their birthdays."

Jack Gudge died of brain injuries following an incident outside Tesco Express in Wimborne Road, Winton, in July this year.

Four people were arrested at the time but all have since been released and will not face charges in relation to his death.

The Rainbow Run was a mile long course across the school field.

Throughout the course were stations in which the students were covered in powder of all the colours of the rainbow.

The powder itself was made by teacher and organiser of the event, Claire Gover.

She said: "It was a privilege to organise this event and I’m so pleased it went well and we’ve raised lots of money for two very great causes."