OLDSWINFORD pupils put a bit of healthy competition into their fundraising efforts as they battled to create the longest ‘coin worm’

With the theme of this year’s Christian Aid Week being ‘wonderful worms’, the Oldswinford CE Primary School youngsters headed out into the playground and created their own monetary masterpieces for the charity.

Each class lined up their loose change in the shape of the curly creatures and were able to raise more than £300 so far.

Jo Seker, deputy headteacher of Oldswinford CE Primary School, said: “We support Christian Aid every year. As a church school, we feel it is a key charity and supports our Christian ethos of ‘caring and sharing’.

“The children have also been learning about themselves as global neighbours and their responsibility to help others in need.

“Our total for the coin worms was £304.21, but we also collected hundreds of Christian Aid donation envelopes, sent in by our families. We don't know the total for those as yet, but it was a very successful day.”

The title of the school’s longest worm was achieved by class 2R who were able to make one measuring 25.61m in length and worth £34.95.

Mrs Seker added: “In assembly on Thursday, the coins from each class worm were tipped into a coin counter and there was great excitement as the totals were announced.

“The level of excitement and buzz among the children was contagious. We always find that adding a competitive element makes such events more successful.”

For more information about Christian Aid visit www.christianaid.org.uk