Pupils from three Chester schools have helped raise more than £3,200 in support of the Hospice of the Good Shepherd.

Children at St Martin's Academy in Hoole, Acresfield Academy in Upton and Grosvenor Park C of E Academy in the city centre held festive-runs or Santa dashes, raising an impressive total of more than £3,200 for the Chester-based hospice. 

Acresfield Academy raised £1,250, St Martin's Academy raised £1,166 and a total of £800 was raised by Grosvenor Park C of E Academy - with donations still coming in. 

Staff at all three schools praised the children for their energy, generosity and compassion - thanking families and friends for their wonderful support. 

Acresfield Academy in Upton raised a total of £1,250 for charity (Image via: NWAT)

Steve Docking OBE, CEO of North West Academies Trust, said: "Events like these really show what our school communities are all about.

"Our pupils have embraced the festive spirit while learning the importance of kindness, generosity and supporting others. 

"I am incredibly proud of the children and staff at St Martin's, Acresfield and Grosvenor Park for their enthusiasm and commitment to raising money for such a vital local charity.

"The support from families and the wider community has been fantastic, and together they have made a real difference." 

The funds raised will support the Hospice of the Good Shepherd, which provides vital care and support to patients and families across Chester and the surrounding area. 

North West Academies Trust (NWAT) runs 12 primary and secondary schools across Cheshire and Shropshire. For more details visit here.