ACTIVE youngsters fought off the sadness of missing their cancelled school sports day by enjoying a mammoth relay around their village.

Children at Bishop William Ward School, in Great Horkesley, typically look forward to their annual sports day every June.

But the restrictions brought about by the coronavirus pandemic inevitably brought about its cancellation this year.

Friends of Bishop William Ward, a committee which raises funds and puts on events for the school, decided to step in and ensure youngsters still had a fun day to enjoy.

Around 48 children from the school signed up to take part in a special relay around the village, choosing to run, walk, cycle or scoot their way across a 5km route.

Teri Duckworth, chair of the committee, said: "The relay was fantastic.

"We were a bit nervous about the weather forecast, but the rain held off and the sun even made an appearance for some of it.

"All the children had so much fun and it was great to see so many smiles and happy faces.

"Some of the children hadn't seen each other for over 15 weeks.

"Some dressed up in rainbow clothes and decorated the outside of their houses with banners and balloons too."

The coronavirus pandemic has proved to be a tumultuous time for teachers and pupils.

"The teachers and children have really missed being in school," added Teri.

"Back in May all of the staff and most of the children sent in photos and short video clips of themselves at home, and the Friends of BWW put together a video for everyone to see each other and keep as a memento of their time in lockdown."

The committee also put together a treasure hunt around the village for the youngsters to enjoy, in place of a cancelled school Easter egg hunt.

With many fundraising events cancelled, the group managed to raise £500 for the school.

To donate, visit: justgiving.com/rainbowrelay.