SCHOOL pupils raised £2,200 for our Swindon Cancer Appeal during a mass sponsored silence.

Pupils at St Francis Preparatory School, Marlborough Road, raised the cash during a Macmillan Hold Your Tongue event.

More than 180 children, from year one up to year eight, gathered in the school's sports hall for a 10 minute silence in aid of the appeal.

Headteacher Peter Blundell said he was impressed with the pupils' achievement.

He said: "It was rather dramatic. Everyone was milling around as we piled into the hall so I let out a piercing wolf whistle to get their attention and to signal the start of the silence.

"The children were extremely well behaved, sitting on the floor reading books.

"I was able to get on with some work, occasionally giving a glower to ensure they remained silent."

The end of the sponsored silence was indicated with a huge round of applause.

Mr Blundell added: "The children realised that while it was a fun event, they were helping a very serious charity.

"Children should be able to help others. The event showed them that helping other members of humanity is a very good thing."

Year seven pupil Katherine Gist, 12, from Stanton St Bernard, said she was pleased the school had raised so much money.

Katherine, who raised £10, said: "My grandma died from cancer about 10 years ago so I'm glad we are helping a cancer charity."

Initially £1,800 was raised following the event in February but the sponsorship money kept pouring in, taking the total to £2,200.

Appeal manager Graziella Campisano said she was thrilled with the children's efforts.

She said: "St Francis Preparatory School stunned the appeal office by raising an amazing amount by taking part in Hold Your Tongue.

"It's a fantastic achievement for all the children and I'm sure the staff savoured those precious quiet moments.

"I'm extremely grateful for their contribution. It has pushed up the appeal total by an enormous amount. Well done."

The appeal total now stands at £88,864.

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