STUDENTS at Yate Academy have joined forces with teachers and parents to complete a mammoth distance in memory of Captain Sir Tom Moore.

The team are aiming to complete a charity walk of over 10,747 kilometres by Friday to raise money for the Captain Tom Foundation in memory of the hero that raised over £32 million last year for the NHS.

The distance is the equivalent of walking from Yate to Myanmar (previously known as Burma), where Captain Sir Tom was stationed during the second world war. The school community are hoping to raise £1000 for The Captain Tom Foundation.

The idea for the fundraising event came from Yate Academy’s inspiring teacher, Mr Tom Killigrew, whose grandfather also served in Myanmar (Burma).

Mr Kiligrew said: “This has also been a great way to keep all our spirits high during the lockdown.

The team are clocking up miles in different ways including cycling, running and rowing. PE teacher Mr Maggs is leading online lessons through zoom with children totting up miles through classes.

Mr Maggs said: “Exercise is the most underutilised remedy for positive mental health.

“This challenge has allowed students and their families to spend time away from their computer screens and exercise together towards a common goal.“

Associate Headteacher Natalie Wilcox commented: “The response from the community has been amazing so far which doesn’t surprise me at all.

“Whether it’s here at Yate Academy, or in the wider community, it’s always been clear that when we pull together we can achieve brilliant things.”

Executive headtecher Izzy Ambrose added: “It has been fantastic to see our school and wider community join together to raise money for such a worthwhile cause.

"The Sir Captain Tom Foundation aims to combat loneliness, champions education and equality and supports our incredible NHS and frontline workers.

"It has also been a great way to keep all our sprits high during the lockdown. Sport and physical exercise is something we really value at Yate Academy- it keeps us fit and helps improves mental health.

"Last week it was children’s mental health awareness week so we wanted to do something which not only raises money for a great cause but also keeps our children feeling happy.

"I want to say a big thank you to everyone who has donated or participated in clocking up the miles to Burma!”

To donate to the cause click here