They raise thousands of pounds for Cancer Research every year.

And staff and students at Sir John Leman High School in Beccles have once again held their annual race for life.

The sixth Leman 4 Life was held on Wednesday afternoon, as hundreds took part in the run, jog or walk around the school field and grounds.

Completing a distance of a little over 5km, those participating were not deterred by the bad weather.

It was co-organised by the Beccles Friends of Cancer Research UK and John Leman teacher Kirsten Remer, who also took part in the run.

She said: “Everyone enjoyed themselves, the pupils do look forward to it and there’s quite a rivalry between some of the older students and the members of staff.

“Last year Leman 4 Life was on the hottest day of the year, it’s the first time we’ve had bad weather like this but it didn’t dampen spirits.”

Headteacher Michael Taylor praised the whole school’s commitment to taking part in the charity event.

“The whole school community is involved,” he said. “It’s lovely to see. The atmosphere was fantastic and so supportive.

“Some of our students are excellent runners, some jogged and walked round.

“I know some of our students suffer with ill health who are still taking part. Some of them are wearing signs saying who they are running for as well which brings tears to your eyes.”

The event was well supported by the community as well, with Tesco, Essex and Suffolk Water and Britvic providing drinks and snacks for runners, along with support from the Bungay Black Dog running club and Rosedale Funeral Home.

And runners got off to a flying start, as the race was officially opened by long-serving teacher Les Leach who is retiring this term, and started by a bright pink car from the Lowestoft-based Lauren Lou appeal in aid of Cancer Research UK.

Yvonne Self, a committee member of the Beccles Friends of Cancer Research UK, said: “I think it’s an amazing event, the whole school takes part and it’s so nice to see.”