PUPILS have been getting into the World Cup spirit with a week of Brazilian-themed activities – and they have refused to let England’s failure dampen their enthusiasm.

Youngsters at Peases West Primary School in Billy Row, near Crook, have been learning about all aspects of Brazil in lessons this week while sampling South American past times.

Today (June 25) the youngsters held a sports day which opened with a parade of their handmade masks.

Games included having to cross a piranha pond, jungle assault course, beach life and a crocodile swamp.

The pupils have also tasted Brazilian cuisine and the week will end with their own mini World Cup tournament and a big barbecue.

Assistant headteacher Melissa Morton said: “The children have loved it, one said today was their best ever day at school.

“As well as all the fun they have also been learning about Brazil, some seemed to think I was taking them there on Friday, they were disappointed when they found out I wasn’t although many have said they now plan to visit the country.”

Ms Morton said pupils had managed to enjoy themselves despite England’s poor showing at the tournament.

She said: “It was a disappointing result but we have had had a great week learning about Brazil.”

On Friday they will be visited by a former England women’s junior player, now a PE teacher at Wolsingham School and Community College.

Parkside Academy pupils have also helped run the sports day.