A SKIPTON primary school is setting the fitness bar with its running club.

Following the success of last year's club with just nine members, Parish Church School has set up two lunchtime clubs - for beginners and intermediates.

Organised by keen runners, school administrator Helen Large and teaching assistant Anita Leach, the aim is for the children to run three or more miles without stopping.

They run around the town and around Sandylands Sports Centre, and are even joined - when work permits - by vice chairman of governors, Robin Barker.

Helen, who together with Anita, recently completed the Great North Run in a time of two hours, four minutes, said it was a great way for the children to get fit.

"We ran the club last year with nine pupils, who have all now left us for secondary school, we were inundated with requests to join this club and we couldn't wait to get running with the children again after the long summer," said Helen.

"This helps the children build up stamina and resilience, keep fit and healthy and prepared for cross county events and athletics."

She added: "It's fantastic seeing how the children progress from running/walking/running short distances to being able to run constantly."

Helen and Anita raised around £300 in the Great North Run for Yorkshire Cancer Research.