HUNDREDS of children armed with red ribbons and wrist bands took part in a giant Mexican Wave this week.

Year nine pupils at King James I Academy in Bishop Auckland organised the spectacular stunt to raise funds and awareness for Sport Relief.

They were joined in the school grounds by students from all year groups, along with teachers and other staff members who formed a mile-long chain around the courtyard.

  • Is your school supporting Sport Relief? Send pictures and details to matt.westcott@nne.co.uk

Student support worker Val Bainbridge helped the children organise the event.

She said: “Here at King James I Academy we always try to support Comic Relief and Sport Relief as they so such good work in this country and around the world.

“This year, we have been selling wrist bands and red streamers and the Mexican wave just seemed like a fun way to bring people together and raise awareness.

“It was good fun and a great way to end the day out in the sunshine, while raising money for charity.”

Mrs Bainbridge said events like this were good for the wellbeing of staff and pupils, adding: “There are mental health projects in the UK funded by Sport Relief, and it is especially nice to think we are supporting these important causes.”