IT was all systems go at Shottermill Junior School as supporters raised money for much-needed new playground equipment.

School business manager Emma Crabb ran a sponsored hot and hilly marathon to swell the funds also raised that day by the parents, teachers and friends association’s summer fair.

Pupils were asked what they would like to go in the playground and their wish list is new climbing frames; ‘sail’ canopies in the top playground to provide more shade; an outdoor tennis table, playground activity kits, such as frisbees, skipping ropes and space hoppers; playground giant games, such as chess, twister and skittles; and outside static exercise equipment.

Emma was cheered on by banner-waving children and was joined by teachers Lucy Mathieson and Jayne Davies for the final few miles to give her a boost to the finish.

A keen runner, who has competed in the London Marathon and is due to do a ‘Midnight Marathon’ along the South Downs Way on August 5, she completed her Shottermill challenge in four hours 11 minutes.

Appealing for more donations, she said: “The more money I can raise, the more we can buy to make playtimes more enjoyable, engaging, active and stimulating for the children.

“The money will be added to funds raised by our hard-working PTFA.

“It went really well and the children all cheered me in with banners, it was lovely. And most importantly I’ve raised about £1,500 so far which I’m thrilled about.”

• All donations gratefully received at www.justgiving.com – search for ‘Emma -Crabb 4’