THE staff and children of Sutton Manor Primary School have been raising money for a staff member at the school is battling cancer.

On Sunday, December 1, school teachers and staff took part in the Liverpool Santa Dash, raising £1,030 for Clatterbridge Cancer Centre, where their friend, who wishes to remain anonymous, was treated.

Some staff had never ran before so it was an amazing achievement.

Students decided to get involved in the fun too and on Friday, December 6 they held a Reindeer Run in support of Rotherham Hospice, who have been ensuring that the staff member is getting the best possible care.

Every child dressed as a reindeer and had to run 1km around the school playground.

Everyone took part, including the two-year-old Tinies and the Nursery children, who never stopped running.

McDonald’s on the Linkway also supported the school by providing everyone with a reindeer mask for free.

The reindeer run has raised over £250 so far.

A spokesman for the school said: "We are very proud of the staff, children and community for their support at what is a difficult time for everyone financially.

"The community pulled together to really shine through - like our school motto - 'where children shine’.

"Our friend and colleague was very grateful for everything that we did and sent messages of thanks to us all."