CHILDREN jumped into action to raise money for a national charity and help buy sports equipment for their school.

Pupils at St Andrew's Primary School, South Church, near Bishop Auckland, took part in a sponsored skip in aid of the British Heart Foundation.

All 170 youngsters took part in the event, and 30 members of the school's after-school sport club collected sponsorship money from friends and family.

Club members choreographed their own group routines and tricks to music, winning the admiration of teacher Alison Hewitt.

Miss Hewitt said: "The whole school took part, as it is a very healthy activity.

"Those that created their own moves did all sorts of weird and wonderful moves and did really well with the sponsorship. The money is still coming in, but from four pupils we have already got almost £100."

Most of the money will go to the charity, but a portion will be given back to the school to spend on sport items.

After last year's sponsored skip, in which the school also took part, it bought outdoor play equipment, including footballs and skipping ropes.