A Beccles school has raised almost £60,000 for Cancer Research UK through a series of annual sporting events.

Eastern Daily Press: Sir John Leman High School, in Beccles, have raised nearly £60,000 for Cancer Research UK. Photo courtesy of Sir John Leman High School.Sir John Leman High School, in Beccles, have raised nearly £60,000 for Cancer Research UK. Photo courtesy of Sir John Leman High School. (Image: Archant)

Sir John Leman High School, in Ringsfield Road, has staged its 5k 'Leman 4 Life' charity runs since 2011.

In total, £59,180 has been donated to the cancer charity, with this year's event alone exceeding £10,000.

Headteacher Michael Taylor said: 'It's phenomenal that one school has been able to make such a major and significant contribution.

'On the day there is a real party atmosphere at the school with the students dressing up to take part.

'However they are mindful of the deeper impact of the event.'

He added: 'I am so proud of the commitment and enthusiasm of the whole school community to make a difference in this area of medical research.'

Students presented the money to the charity at a special presentation at the school on Friday, November 24.

This year's head boy Elliott Fenn organised his own triathlon to tie into the usual race and raised an additional £1,366 for the charity.

Teacher Kirsten Remer, who co-organises the event with the Beccles Friends of Cancer Research UK group, explains how the event has gone from 'strength to strength' over the years.

She said: 'The children get more competitive each time, trying to raise more money than they did the previous year.

'It makes me feel proud and pleased to carry on the good work that was put in place and continue raising money.'

She added: 'It couldn't be done without the whole school getting involved.'

Rosie Riches, from Beccles Friends of Cancer Research UK, praised the school for its continued support over the years.

She said: 'Every year it gets better and better.

'We love seeing the runners in action and the fun that everyone has while taking part.

'I would like to congratulate the school for encouraging social responsibility across all year groups.

'There were some touching messages from some of those taking part who had lost friends or relatives to cancer.'

She added: 'The amount raised will support further research into the causes and prevention of cancer.'