A SCHOOL council has chosen to support a 24-hour fundraising drive to raise money to build a cancer centre in Basingstoke.

Children on the pupil-elected school council at St Mary’s Junior School, in Old Basing, decided to support Ark Day on June 21, when individuals and groups from across the borough will raise money for the Ark Cancer Centre Charity.

The school council at St Mary’s is represented by all year groups, and they look at ways of improving the school and how to organise charity events which reflect the school’s value of ‘one family’.

Supporting Ark was a way for them to fulfil their desire to both fundraising for a local charity, and one which helps those affected by cancer.

Chair of the council, Thomas, said: “At St Mary’s all the children at our school felt we really wanted to support the Ark Day because it is a great way for us to raise money for such an important cause. Also, we believe that the Ark charity is a brilliant reflection of our school values, including compassion, hope and responsibility.

“We learn at St Mary’s that we are all part of one family and helping others in need is so important for our wider community.”

The children will be taking part in a non-uniform day and donating to the charity in return.