Kettering Millbrook Junior School pupils smash Captain Tom 100 Challenge

Pupils and staff at a Kettering school put their best feet forward on Friday to hike around their school playing fields in a Captain Tom 100 Challenge walking event.

The Millbrook Junior School community, children and adults, pooled their pedestrian power for a fundraising navigation around the edge of the sports' field.

On the day that would have been Sir Captain Tom Moore's 101st birthday, the children paid tribute to the inspirational fundraiser.

The Army veteran raised almost £33 million for NHS charities by walking 100 laps of his garden before he turned 100 last year.

A spokesman for Millbrook Junior School said: "The school is very fortunate to have such amazing outdoor spaces, including the field.

"The school has a strong focus on the well-being of staff and pupils. Physical and mental health are extremely important, especially in the current times.

"At Millbrook Junior School all pupils are encouraged to ‘Dream, Believe, Aspire, Achieve’ and the Captain Tom story has helped them with this.

"The children followed his inspirational story closely, including helping to celebrate his 100th birthday by making banners and sending cards and they were excited to take part in the challenge."

Setting a collective target of 100 laps to honour Captain Tom, the pupils used the recently installed walking track around the field's perimeter to smash their target by 100 laps.

The spokesman added: "The track was installed so children can take part in additional physical activity and enjoy getting out in the fresh air.

"It provides them with a break from learning in the classroom.

"The day was overseen by the fantastic head pupils who kept track of the laps completed and provided plenty of encouragement along the way.

"Overall, a staggering 200 laps were accomplished and over £240 was raised for The Captain Tom Foundation."