PUPILS from a West Moors school rallied round to help the community fundraise for a foundation supporting older people.

Bakers and bikers from across Dorset have taken part in fundraising activities over the last month in a bid to raise as much money as possible for Home Instead Charities, which aims to bring happiness and joy into the lives of older people through improving and maintaining mental well-being and addressing loneliness and isolation

Children from St Mary's CE First School in West Moors donned their aprons and took part in a bake sale which raised £150.

Pupil Amelia managed to raise £100 by herself and was rewarded with a family trip to Adventure Wonderland by charity bosses.

The Home Instead East Dorset and Blandford franchise encouraged local people to participate in the national challenge.

Jayne Perks, community engagement lead at Home Instead, said: "We are so pleased to have raised such an incredible amount for Home Instead Charities. The money will go towards the amazing work they do funding groups and activities for older peo0ple which really do make a difference to their lives.

"At Home Instead our mission is to change the face of ageing, and we are proud to be able to support our national charity who do this everyday as well as help people throughout our local community.

"We would like to say a thank you and well done to everyone who fundraised and supported us. Our community is truly impressive and supportive."

School pupils were not the only ones who fundraised for the foundation.

Keen cyclists Robert Atkins, from Wimborne, and Andrew Forrest, from Christchurch, both hopped on their bikes to take on a 100-mile trip to raise money for the foundation.

The pair pedalled from Wimborne to Bridport, cheered on by supporters the whole way.

The local franchise also hosted a bake sale, inviting their clients and caregivers to join them at the West Moors office to enjoy a sweet treat and a cup of tea.

In total, £1,000 was raised for the charity, which is the most money a Home Instead franchise has ever raised for the national charity.