PUPILS in Melrose were picking up the pace in the playground last week as they completed the Race for Life.

Almost the entire primary school pulled on their trainers to compete in the fundraiser for Cancer Research UK.

And even the nursery children joined in with their own jog around the park.

The event was organised by the school's staff, fundraising committee and the lunch time running club who all worked hard to make the day a success.

Primary 5 teacher Jill Robertson said: “All pupils and staff put in a tremendous effort making everyone proud.

"The school worked together to make this day very successful for everyone as well as raising a lot of money for a very good cause.”

Every participating pupil collected sponsorship money before completing either one mile or five kilometres.

Although the sponsorship money is still coming in, the school has already reached £4,000.

Mrs Robertson added: "Throughout the year, the pupils have been gearing up for the big run by doing a kilometre a day. "

Melrose Primary School previously held a similar event back in 2010, when £635 was raised.

Race for Life events across Britain have been raising money for 20 years with a current total of £547 million which has helped Cancer Research UK continue their work.