CARING youngsters have gone the extra mile for charity.

Pupils at Holycroft Primary School, Keighley, took part in a sponsored run.

All the children, from nursery age to year six, were involved.

They each ran for up to 15 minutes around Lund Park, close to the Victoria Road school, completing as many laps as possible within the allotted time.

“The children surpassed all expectations by running nearly 1,800 laps – which worked out at 283 miles, or the distance from Keighley to Dover!” said deputy headteacher, Laura Morgan.

“Through their efforts the children raised a massive £1,200.

“Throughout the day they were supported by members of staff, who ran with them, and by many parents who came to the park to cheer them on.”

She added that the pupils had wanted to do something for Children in Need and – through the school council – decided on the run, plus a non-uniform day.

This year’s BBC Children in Need Appeal raised a whopping £50 million-plus – including £3.2 million in Yorkshire.

Schools, businesses and groups across the Keighley district coined-in cash for the cause.

Since the initiative began nearly four decades ago, more than £1 billion has gone towards helping disadvantaged children and young people in communities across the UK.

Simon Antrobus, for the appeal, said: “Once again people should feel incredibly proud of what has been achieved.

“The remarkable generosity shown will go on to make a lasting difference to the lives of disadvantaged children and young people all across the UK who really do need our help.

“Thank you to everyone.”

Around £50.5 million was raised on the Children in Need evening itself, last month.

But the total is continuing to rise as money comes in from more events held nationally.

Last year, about £10 million was added to the on-the-night total in the months after the event.

Children in Need is presently supporting over 2,800 projects in the UK, including some in this district.

They are helping youngsters who live in poverty, are disabled or ill, or are experiencing distress, neglect or trauma.