SPRINGDALE First School kicked off its 50th anniversary celebrations by going an ‘Extra Mile’ for its charity neighbour, Julia’s House.

The whole school joined in a special sponsored challenge in which pupils walked, skipped or ran a mile with funds raised being split between the school and the charity’s Corfe Mullen children’s hospice which is in the same road.

An Extra Mile proved to be a big hit with pupils and teachers. Head teacher Ruth Leach said: “Springdale School is delighted to have taken part in the first Extra Mile event. Our children had the opportunity to learn about the great work done by Julia’s House and were eager to do their bit to make a difference to the lives of other children.

“This year is the 50th anniversary of Springdale opening so a community event was a great way to start our year of celebrations.”

Julia’s House community fundraiser Laura Kelly donned her running vest to join the children and help them in the pre-mile warm-up.

She said: “The Extra Mile is not about who walks or runs the fastest but about children having fun with school friends and helping other children who may be too poorly to walk or run.

“This is the first time we have organised a joint activity for pupils that benefits both the school and the families we support. There was a wonderful atmosphere and everyone agreed the Extra Mile was a really simple but enjoyable way of sharing fundraising.”

Each child who raised money will be presented with a medal, plus the class raising the most money will receive a trophy. Forum Jewellers in Broadstone sponsored the prizes.

Julia’s House is a children’s hospice, providing care for life-limited children and their families across Dorset and Wiltshire.

It also offers respite sessions at the hospice and at homes in the two counties but receives just five per cent of its total funding from the government. For the rest it relies on donations and fund raising. Julia’s House would love to hear from other schools who would like to go the Extra Mile - please call 01202 644220 or email community@juliashouse.org