Sweet treats and sticky fingers were the order of the day as pupils hosted a cake sale to show their support for a teacher taking on an epic desert challenge.
Mike Chauffour, a former Royal Marine Commando who now teaches Year Six youngsters at Stowmarket’s Trinity Primary School, has signed up for the energy-sapping Marathon Des Sables (MdS).
The six-day, 250km (156-mile) event is approximately the distance of six regular marathons, with one single stage alone being an eye-watering 100k.
Ambitious Mike, 39, is taking on the challenge for East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH), and his fundraising efforts were boosted by a recent cake sale, which raised £500.
The talented pupils were also joined by the Mayor of Stowmarket, David Child, and his consort, Maria Child.
“They were keen to help with my fundraising, baking at home and bringing in their creations to sell at school,” said Mike, who lives in Ipswich.
“The result was a fantastic turnout and an impressive total raised, for which I’m truly grateful.
“Training for the desert is tough, but knowing our school community is behind me is hugely motivating.
“I’m also thankful to the Mayor of Stowmarket and his consort, Maria. For them to give their time and show their support meant a lot.”
The legendary Marathon des Sables is a gruelling multi-day ultramarathon often described as the toughest footrace on Earth. It gets underway on 3rd April and is held every year in southern Morocco.
Competitors must run across vast desert landscapes while carrying their own supplies.
French-born Mike is already halfway towards his initial goal of raising £5,000 and has printed leaflets to distribute at school, for children to hand out at their sports clubs, Cubs, Scouts, Brownies and Guides.
To show your support and sponsor him, head here.
