Bushey schoolchildren began preparations for a fun run today where they hope to win back a team trophy and raise money for charity.

Pupils from Bournehall Primary School, in Bournehall Avenue, ran around their school field to build up to the junior leg of the Bushey Quarter-Marathon in July.

As well as taking part, the 40 or so runners are looking to win back the Biggest School Team award, won last year by pupils from Bushey rivals, Ashfield Junior School, in School Lane.

Hannah Gagliardi, 9, said: “We really want to beat Ashfield this year. I ran last year and it is great fun, we get to run like a quarter of a mile.”

The fun run, part of the Bushey Festival, consists of an adult race of just less than six and a half miles, a two-mile junior race for over-12s and races for under 12s and under tens.

In its 24th year, the race will raise money for the Peace Hospice and organiser John Hambleton says he expects about 350 adults and 400 children to take part.

“As soon as one year finishes we start planning the next one”, he said.

“Bournehall School have always supported the race and encourage a large amount of pupils to get involved.”

The race, which starts and finishes in King George Park, in King George Avenue, raised £4,152 last year and parent Jayne Turnley says the children really enjoy it.

“I take them all out running before school every Thursday and they are all very keen to win the trophy back from Ashfield”, she said. “It is a nice family day with a good atmosphere.”

If you would like to enter the Bushey Quarter Marathon on Sunday, July 4, visit www.busheyquartermara.ik.com.