Luke's Army leads the charge in Race for Life at Thomas Gainsborough School in aid of Cancer Research UK

More than 900 students at a Suffolk secondary school have once again taken part in their own Race for Life.

Students from Thomas Gainsborough School in Great Cornard ran and walked around their school field on Monday afternoon, to raise money for Cancer Research UK.

Among the runners were a group of ‘Luke’s Army’, in support of TGS student Luke Watson, who was recently diagnosed with cancer.

The 13-year-old has been undergoing multiple rounds of chemotherapy treatment in hospital, with his family by his side, since receiving a diagnosis of lymphoma in April.

PE teacher Blake Richards said: “The TGS Race for Life really is a popular event in the school calendar.

“It was great to see so many students – in their various house colours – and staff take part.”

Since its inception, the event has raised more than £30,000, and organisers are once again expecting a big total from this year’s event.

“We are always blown away by the money raised and we will announce our final total in a few weeks time,” added Mr Richards.

“We would like to thank every single person who has donated and supported the event.”

An online appeal titled Luke’s Army – set up in aid of Luke and his family – has so far reached £6,000 in donations, including more than £800 from a sponsored head shave by friends Max Freeman and Jamie Rose.

On Sunday, from 10am to 2pm, a charity event featuring bouncy castles, bubble football, face painting and a prize raffle will be held at AFC Sudbury, where Luke plays in the under-13s team.

Proceeds from the event will also go towards the appeal.