More than 20 schools including ones in Ely, Soham and Wisbech helped raise more than £1,500 by taking part in a fundraising day that saw pupils turn up to school in purple.

Children at Mepal and Witcham, Ely St Mary’s, St Andrew’s Soham, Wisbech St Mary, St Peter’s Wisbech and Marshland St James took part in the charity event which was held to help children understand more about mental health.

The theme of the day was ‘surviving or thriving’ and, after an assembly, the children were introduced to the concept.

The day included a range of interactive activities based around developing five key skills that can be used to keep their minds happy and healthy.

The five skills were: make relationships, be active, take note, keep learning and be creative and play.

Across the 20 schools more than 3,400 children took part.

Jade Betts, headteacher at Guyhirn Primary School, said: “We all thought the day was fantastic and if possible would definitely like to make it an annual event.

“The children are still using the 5 to Thrive examples with each other.”

Emily Bedford, schools effectiveness officer for Diocese of Ely Multi-Academy Trust, who led the day, said: “It has been a great privilege to have given our schools the opportunity to learn about keeping their minds healthy, to begin to equip children with the skills to enjoy life and deal with the challenges it presents.

“This has such an important place in children’s lives growing up today and we thank all our children, staff and school communities that took part.”