THE last two days before the May Half Term saw a hive of fundraising activity at Twyford School.

Inspired by Captain Tom, the staff challenged themselves to a non-stop 24 hour relay called The Moveathon.

They raised £4,076 for the current school charity The Wessex Cancer Trust.

A gazebo was set up outside by the car park containing an exercise bike, a treadmill and a rowing machine.

Pippa Higham, Year 4 teacher, head of charities and organiser of the event, started The Moveathon on the exercise bike at 8am. The relay continued through the day with the headmaster Andrew Harvey rowing the team across the finish line at 8.45am on the Friday morning.

Throughout the day, the children enjoyed seeing and cheering on the 32 teachers and support staff being put through their paces during their 45 minute slots. Many cycled, some rowed, a few ran on the treadmill.

A spokesperson said: "Mr Mathar and Mr Goldsmith who chose to run around the cross-country course at school, were seen flanked and supported by different year groups who were out at break.

“The real heroes were those who took the night-time slots. To name a few, Mr Ford ran from his home to school and back in a double slot of 1 hour 30 min, Mrs Digby cycled through the Hampshire sunrise.

“Joe Wicks was put to work at 2am, 3am by those at home and together we made it through the full 24 hours. With huge thanks for the wonderful support from the children and the parents driving through the car park with some donations still being given. There was a fabulous atmosphere around the school.

On the afternoon of Friday 28th May, the whole of Pre-Prep took to the main sports pitch to take part in their annual sponsored walk. This year, due to our Covid bubbles, the walk took place in 2 sections: Nursery and Reception years went first, followed by Years 1 and 2.

The Pre-Prep School Council had chosen to support the charity Wave 105 Cash for Kids campaign which supports the children that need it most across the South. The Pre-Prep walked 25 laps of the pitch which equals 5K! Archie the therapy dog enjoyed walking with Years 1 and 2.

The children were joined by the Pre-Prep staff who marked their cards with a tick, smiley face, even a love heart for every lap they completed.