HUNDREDS of staff and students from two Bournemouth schools dressed as pirates joined forces to help one of the pupils realise his Olympic dream.

Leon Mean-Moss, who has a prosthetic leg, is a talented sportsman with an ambition to represent his country at rowing.

However, to be able to compete at the highest Leon needs a specialist prosthetic costing around £9,000.

A 600-strong group took part in the pirate-themed walk from Sandbanks to Southbourne to help raise money for Leon.

The event also supported The Dorset Children's Foundation, who have helped the year 10 Bournemouth Collegiate School pupil.

Students from the prep and senior school took part in the walk and organisers estimate the event will raise a total of £10,000 once all the money has been collected.

"It was very overwhelming and a bit scary at first, but so amazing to see so many people supporting me," Leon said.

"To be able to do it with everyone I know really well, having fun and not too serious was great.

"One day I will take part in the Paralympic Games for rowing.

"It's my dream and there's nothing better than being able to do something you enjoy for and be successful at the same time.

"I have to say thank you so much to everyone that was involved in the walk. There were people who don't really know me raising money and their generosity is crazy."

Leon's mum Katell said it was a very emotional morning for her, but so special to see people coming out to support her son.

"I spent most of the time in tears of joy," Katell said.

"You don't expect people to put that much effort to help your own child.

"In a world where you hear bad things and misery all the time, this is such a heart-warming event from all of the school community.

"This is true dedication from the staff, pupils and parents."

Leon is set to attend a classification event in London next month, which will allow him to know the requirements for future rowing competitions.

BCS spokesman Simon Coulter said: "It was a brilliant morning and it was great to see both schools combining and doing the walk together.

"We've got a charity auction at the start of November, which will take place at the prep school."