WHINHILL Primary are off to a great start for the new year after their festive fete raised almost £1,500.

Around 200 people flocked to the school for the seasonal event and coffee morning, which was organised by the Parent Teacher Association.

Everyone had the chance to visit a whole host of stalls and pick up crafts, try their luck in the raffle and tombola, browse books, visit the games area, have their faces painted and enjoy some popcorn and hot dogs.

The successful event took the PTA a few months to plan and organise but the effort proved worth it.

Lynsey Freeburn of the PTA said: “It takes us a few months to get ready for the fete from collecting all the items for the raffles and stalls to arranging who is able to support on the day and provide baking for the home baking stall.

“Everything went really well.

"We raised £1,450 for the school.

"It was great to see all the children and families enjoying themselves and everyone seemed to have a great time.

“We would like to thank all the teachers, the PTA members, the children and the families who helped out and those who came on the day.”

The money raised will go towards school funds and will help pay for bus hire for school outings, sports equipment, school discos and treats for the pupils at Easter.