Splashing through mud is not everybody’s idea of a fun day out - but a team from Eggar’s School in Alton raised more than £2,500 for charity by doing so.

A total of 24 staff and members of pupils’ families tackled the 7.5km Henley Tough Mudder event on May 9.

Team organiser and Eggar’s safeguarding lead Lucy Tomkinson said: “From muddy obstacles to teamwork and determination, they all showed incredible spirit and resilience throughout the challenge.”

The money will be shared between national charity Meningitis Now, and Naomi and Jack’s, which provides expert care for seriously ill babies, children and young adults in two specialised centres near Winchester.

Eggar’s lost a pupil, Reuben, to meningitis in 2023, and is passionate about raising funds for Meningitis Now.

Lucy added: “Reuben was a much-loved member of our school. He brought energy, kindness and warmth to those around him, and his presence is deeply missed every day.

“Losing him to meningitis was devastating, and it has left a lasting impact on students, staff and everyone who knew him.

“This cause has brought us together. It has given us a way to turn our grief into something positive: to take action, to educate others and to honour Reuben’s life.”

Reuben’s mother Aimée said: “Those who knew Reuben know how much he loved his sport and that he would have enjoyed the thrill of adventurous challenges like Tough Mudder.

“It means so much to us to know he is being remembered in such a positive and impactful way, and that his name is helping to raise awareness and support for others - particularly important given the recent meningitis B outbreak and crisis, highlighting there is still so much to be done to protect and educate our youngsters. We all miss him so much, he was and is so loved.”