WITH the London 2012 Olympics fast approaching, pupils from St Mary’s Primary School competed in their own event.

Year 5 students organised and took part in a 5,000m fun run to raise money for the President’s Sporting Club and the Essex Disabled Sports Foundation as part of their topic on the human body.

Students sent letters to the Broadcast and businesses asking for support and we gladly obliged.

Year 5 teachers Mandy Turner and Ruchi Sabharwal said they were so proud of what the children have achieved.

“We have been studying the human body and since it is an Olympic year we wanted to focus on that... but from a Paralympic point of view and the attributes that it takes to compete such as courage, belief and determination,” said Miss Sabharwal.

“All the children have been really inspired by the topic and all of them took part and completed the 5km, we are very proud of them.”

Mike Jackson, who founded the charity 30 years ago, was equally impressed.

“This is brilliant and the children are so enthusiastic. I would like to thank all the pupils and staff for taking part and helping us to provide sporting facilities and opportunities to children with special needs.”

Mr Jackson is planning a return trip to the school following his torch bearing duties.

He was selected by the Daily Telegraph as one of its 15 bearers alongside Sir Chris Hoy and Sir Matthew Pinsent.