A HEADTEACHER was on the run on Sunday to raise funds for much-needed equipment for pupils at his Oldbury school who have severe learning disabilities.

Gordon Phillips finished his eighth annual 10k run in Carterton, Oxfordshire, raising £250 the Meadows Sports College special school But the 61-year-old is hoping more funds will flood in to boost a £12,000 appeal to buy an interactive sensory mat and eye pointer to improve his pupils’ quality of learning.

The appeal, launched last year, has raised more than £5,000, but still has a long way to go and he is urging companies and individuals to sponsor him.

He also hopes other schools will hold non-uniform days to raise funds for the appeal.

Mr Phillips, who has raised thousands of pounds over several years for the Dudley Road East school, completed the run in a new PW – personal worst – he said, with a time of 65 mins 17 secs finishing 202nd out of 230.

“But what do you expect for a senior citizen of 61, competing against those in their 20s,” said Mr Phillips, who finished 202nd out of 230.

The school caters for children, aged 11-19, who have complex and profound learning difficulties and some have life limiting medical conditions.

Anyone wanting to donate to the appeal should contact the school on 0121 569 7080.