CHILDREN are collecting coins to help a worthy cause. Pupils at Holy Rood Catholic Junior School, in Old Walcot, have been busy gathering coins of all currencies to support the British Red Cross.

Some 250 seven to 11-year-olds filled more than 100 envelopes with foreign coins left over from summer holidays and even their own pocket money.

Anne Clark, deputy head, said: "The children have been extremely enthusiastic about this appeal. It is wonderful to see such generosity."

After a fortnight of hard collecting, the children have amassed enough coins to warrant a Red Cross courier coming to fetch them.

Mrs Clark said: "The coins came in thick and fast. We have collected so many, they are too heavy to post. It is fantastic."

The coins will be used to provide help for wheelchair users and people suffering temporary mobility problems.