MALVERN Special Families has been given a generous boost after a school in the town surpassed its fundraising target.

Malvern St James girls’ school had aimed to raise £10,000 for Malvern Special Families, as part of the school’s 10th anniversary celebrations.

But at the school’s prizegiving ceremony recently, the charity was presented with a cheque for £12,686. This was in addition to £1,140 raised earlier in the year by the school, making its grand total £13,826.

Students took part in a number of fundraising and sponsored events including a sponsored walk to the Worcestershire Beacon.

The charity's community fundraiser, Cassie Zoro, said: “£10,000 is an incredible amount of money to aim to fundraise in a year and the fact that the school’s fundraising target has been smashed so spectacularly, is absolutely fantastic."

The school's head Olivera Raraty said: “It has been a pleasure to fundraise this year for Malvern Special Families, since the school has had a long association with the charity and we were keen to support work in our local community. I’m really pleased that not only current students and staff, but also alumnae, parents and former staff have helped us to reach this terrific total.

"It has been truly a group effort, and I also extend my thanks to Malvern Junior Gym, who meet in our MSJ Sports Centre, for their very generous contribution. I hope everyone now enjoys a very happy and relaxing summer.”

Malvern Special Families Chair Helen Attree said: “Thank you so much to everyone who has supported the school’s fundraising campaign. We are honoured that MSJ chose to fundraise for our charity this year and delighted that they have surpassed their fundraising target, reaching such an impressive milestone.”