More than a hundred food boxes were distributed to families in need as part of a scheme to support people during the coronavirus outbreak.

The Inclusive Multi Academy Trust – which runs Laurance Haines, Cherry Tree and Beechfield schools – teamed up with the Watford Salvation Army to raise £3,215 in just 72 hours to raise funds for boxes of food.

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With the help of the community - including Watford MP Dean Russell and Mayor of Watford Peter Taylor - the trust put together and distributed 120 boxes to be donated to families over the Easter period.

Nicola Furey, the pastoral lead at Laurance Haines School, cycled 26.2 miles on an exercise bike in her home to raise an additional £1,200, which will help fund a further 176 food boxes.

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Watford MP Dean Russell and Mayor of Watford Peter Taylor helped with putting these boxes together

Sebastian Gray, headteacher at Laurance Haines said: “We are immensely proud of Mrs Furey and the completion of her bike ride as well as the staff who have been able to volunteer.

“Their efforts sum up the very important work that staff across Laurance Haines and the Inclusive Multi Academy Trust are doing to ensure our community is supported during these difficult times.”

James Roach, chief executive of the Inclusive Multi Academy Trust said: “The role of our schools has changed significantly over the last month.

“We are seeing a significant rise in need from families across the three schools in the Inclusive Multi Academy Trust, due to changes in personal circumstances.

“For some the supplies that the Salvation Army provide are their main sources of food.

“Our pastoral lines have been inundated with families looking for support and our staff are determined to ensure that we provide for our community where we can."