ECO-FOCUSED East Wichel Primary School took a Valentine’s Day approach with its regular ‘ike It day yesterday morning, as money was raised for Swindon Cares.

The school encourages pupils to use their bicycles and scooters to get to school each morning with Bike It days, which take place regularly throughout the school year.

However, following an approach in the autumn term from Swindon Cares, who wanted to get involved with a school in the town, they incorporated fundraising with a Valentine’s theme yesterday.

Pupils were asked to wear something red and either wear or create a heart of some kind, in keeping with February 14.

Children’s families were also invited into school for a breakfast which included hot drinks, cold drinks, fresh fruit platters and pancakes.

Contributions from the 120-plus gathered were approximately £220, though money is still being counted across this weekend.

Headteacher Caroline Henham co-ordinated the event. She said: “We always like to support charity events and normally focus on children’s charities.

“But after their approach, we told Swindon Cares we would support their fundraising this year.

“As a part of the week leading up to the event we actually had Swindon Cares come into the school and do an assembly, because there are young carers at our school, who can relate to this.

“I have already had an email from a parent saying how much she appreciated the event. She said the time she could spend with her daughter in school and have breakfast was invaluable to her.”