Ref. 27858-26Children skipped for joy and charity at Lainesmead Infants' School. Around 45 four to 11-year-olds took part in a sponsored skipathon to raise money for The British Heart Foundation.

Skipping for an hour non-stop, the youngsters certainly worked for the money.

Jake Johnson, seven, said: "I really like skipping. It's not just for girls. My brother, Connor, enjoys it too."

In the summer, the BHF donated 30 skipping ropes to the school, in South View Avenue.

And pupils have been practising skipping ever since, ready for the event yesterday.

Similar events are taking place across the country to raise money for heart research and encourage children to take regular exercise.

Casey Hindon, eight, enjoyed the experience.

She said: "It was brilliant. Skipping keeps me fit and you have great fun with your friends."

The school also runs a skipping club, so children can practise the activity.

Special needs teacher Lynne Bearman organised the event with colleague Hannah Fawbert.

Mrs Bearman said: "We don't know how much money has been raised. But everyone had a wonderful time."