Thousands of schoolchildren from across the county who donned reindeer antlers last Christmas for charity have raised almost £27,000 for Jigsaw, Cumbria’s Children’s Hospice.

More than 3,800 primary-aged pupils from 32 schools supported Jigsaw’s second-annual Reindeer Run fundraiser which challenged youngsters to raise as much money as possible for the only children’s hospice in Cumbria.

Vicki Lesley, from Jigsaw’s fundraising team, said: “Thanks to all the schools and children who took part in this year’s Reindeer Run.

“It’s been wonderful to hear about all the fantastic events which have taken place across the county to raise money for Jigsaw

“The money raised through initiatives like the Reindeer Run is vital in helping us continue to offer dedicated and compassionate care to children and young people with life limiting illnesses.

“We look forward to working with Cumbria’s kind-hearted schoolchildren for our future fundraising events.”

The series of school-based events took place throughout December with the final money now collected and counted revealing a grand total of £26,959.

Schools were provided with their own fundraising packs, including reindeer antlers for each child, and they then devised their own run, walk or event to raise vital funds.

Some of the festive events included laps of the school field, festive fun days and runs in different locations within their community.

The 2022 fundraiser builds on the success of the previous year, with many schools returning to take part as well as new ones signing up.

One of the schools who took part was Hayton C of E Primary School, near Brampton, who raised £1,878.

The school also helped the charity reveal the grand total for the whole fundraiser during a special assembly.

Sarah Threlkeld-Brown, head teacher at Hayton C of E Primary School, near Brampton, said: “I have seen first-hand how the staff at Jigsaw make the unthinkable and completely unbearable slightly less unbearable for families.

“Their kindness, dedication and support are unwavering, and I thank them for their tireless work from the bottom of my heart.

“When I became head teacher at Hayton, I knew this was an event I wanted us to support as I knew what a positive impact the funds would have and I wanted the children in school to understand Jigsaw’s importance in the community.

“I’d like to thank Jigsaw so much for inviting our school to be an integral part of the unveiling of the funds, we feel honoured for the opportunity.”