PUPILS put all their energy into a sponsored run in aid of a cancer charity– then sought comfort and answers in specially created prayer spaces.

More than 200 youngsters took part in the annual Race for Life at St Stephen's Primary School in Willington, County Durham, in aid of Cancer Research UK.

Deputy headteacher Victoria Suddes said: "As a church school it is really important to us to give service to others and do charity work.

"For many years we have done the Race for Life for children to raise money and show compassion, this year it was extra special as it was the first time we held a three day prayer spaces event."

Around the grounds, eight prayer spaces were created for children to be thankful, remember loved ones, pray or ask questions such as why some people get sick.

Mrs Suddes said: "There is a huge focus on developing spirituality in school and we've shared that by having classes from Willington and Sunnybrow Primary Schools in.

"Sadly some children have personal stories of cancer so the fun run is a chance to give something back and the prayer spaces have been a mindful and magical experience which will become an annual event."