St Neots children stage own 'Race for Life' in aid of popular teacher

Primary schoolchildren in St Neots have staged their own 'Race for Life' to support a teacher who has been diagnosed with breast cancer.

Caroline Howitt has taught at Bushmead Primary School for 16 years and is currently undergoing treatment for the disease.

Having heard about her diagnosis, children from the school ran for 30 minutes around the playing field on Friday.

The sponsored event is expected to raise over £2,000 for Cancer Research UK.

Caroline Howitt is making good progress in her recovery. Credit: ITV News Anglia

"It means a huge amount to me. The support from the children is just amazing," Caroline told ITV News Anglia.

"We are a big family at Bushmead and after receiving my diagnosis, the support from the school and everyone in it has been absolutely amazing."

Caroline is hopeful of returning to the classroom in the new year, where she is bound to get a brilliant welcome from all the children.

"We're trying to teach the children, that although Mrs Howitt is poorly, she can get better," Headteacher Steve Down said.

"There are people around that can support her, and these children are supporting the charity that are helping Mrs Howitt in her recovery."