ENTHUSIASTIC pupils at Greengates Primary Academy have taken a leaf out of Captain Tom’s book and vowed to undertake a series of exercises to raise money for the NHS.

Inspired by Captain Tom’s 100 laps of his garden and his recent passing, students are challenging themselves in what they are calling the “Captain Tom Challenge” to perform 100 reps of their chosen activity.

The campaign was sparked by school principal Andy Gaunt who set up a JustGiving page with an initial target of just £100.

“We were inspired by Captain Tom’s attitude, selflessness and grit throughout the pandemic, and we were all very upset to hear of his passing,” he said. “We were about six weeks into home-schooling and, it gave us a good reason to bring the children together and establish a common goal for them to work towards.”

Pupils of all ages have been raising money in various ways, from performing 100 bounces on a space hopper and 100 keepy uppies with a balloon to naming 100 nouns and remaining silent for 100 minutes. Staff members have also joined in the fun, with one member of staff riding a bike for 100 minutes and another pledging to run 100 miles throughout March.

“The challenge initially started as part of our lockdown PE lessons over Zoom,” explained Mr Gaunt. “The whole class performed ten separate exercises together, such as burpees, sit-ups and squats, and it quickly evolved into something much bigger. As well as recognising Captain Tom and what he’s done, pupils in Year 6 have even been writing biographies of him!”

Their hard work has certainly paid off, with the total sum raised sitting at just over £1,900. This figure was given a boost by civil engineering company Howard Civil Engineering who are undertaking junction improvement works a stone’s throw away from the school.

The Leeds-based company donated £200 to the fundraising efforts, bringing the total even closer to the £2,000 mark.

“It is fantastic to see the children of Greengates Primary Academy pull together and raise money for such a worthy cause during what is undoubtedly a challenging time for them,” said Howard Civil Engineering’s community liaison officer Sophie Henderson.

“Captain Tom’s fundraising efforts have been an inspiration to us all and it’s great that the pupils of Greengates Primary have been able to remain positive and proactive despite the challenges that lockdown has thrown them, and have fun doing it.”

Anyone wishing to sponsor the children can find the JustGiving link on Greengates Primary Academy’s twitter, @DeltaGreengates, and by following the hashtag #CaptTomChall.