GENEROUS school pupils have raised more than £1,600 for Little Havens Hospice.

Staff, pupils and parents at St John’s School, in Stock Road, Billericay, organised three months of activities to raise the cash.

Children baked and sold cakes, donated to a non-uniform day and collected donations after each performance of the school’s Christmas concert. Staff also took part in a champagne raffle.

Headteacher Fiona Armour, said: “This is a wonderful testament to our warm-hearted children here at St John’s.

“We were delighted to be able to show our support for such a worthy local cause as Little Havens as they do such great work looking after local families.”

The charity needs to raise £46,000 a week to provide its free services for children with life-limiting illnesses and their families.

Peter Hall, community fundraiser, accepted a cheque on behalf of the hospice. He said: “The children and staff did such a wonderful job fundraising for us, and did so with smiles on their faces and lots of enthusiasm, too.

“I want to say a huge thank you on behalf of all the children and families that we care for at Little Havens.”