FUN-LOVING primary pupils were so desperate to start their summer holiday that they hurtled straight into the sea in their school uniforms.

Youngsters from St Mark’s had been watching the clock all morning, impatiently waiting for the bell to signal the start of the six-week break.

 

So when they finally escaped from their stuffy classrooms they headed for Alum Chine and a refreshing dip in the sea.

Around 20 youngsters joined organiser Sofia Ferreira, aged 10, for a cooling swim before taking off their uniforms and donning more suitable beachwear.

Sofia’s mum, Amanda, said Sofia and some of her friends swam in their uniforms last year and invited more to join them this year.

“It started off when Sofia was so hot last year and said ‘I could just jump in the sea as I am’ so I said she could if she wanted to.

“There are more joining us this time and Sofia hopes to make it an annual event. We couldn’t have chosen a better day for it.”

Onlookers watched in amusement as the group ran screaming into the water, still wearing a selection of summer dresses, polo shirts, skirts and trousers.

Sofia said: “I thought it would be fun for everyone to get together to celebrate that school is out – it’s a nicer day than last year too.”

Ten-year-old Alexandra Burstow added: “I am really excited about the summer holidays so this is agood start – I’m going to France for a week too.”

After the swim, Jack Collins, 10, said: “It was freezing but fun.”