A WEST Dorset headteacher has swapped her playground whistle for her running shoes to raise money for school equipment.

Jackie Shanks, head at Mountjoy School in Beaminster, has run half a marathon every for for 50 days to raise funding to buy outdoor play equipment.

The money raised will be presented to the Friends of Mountjoy School as part of the group's campaign to raise equipment for the school.

Ms Shanks enjoyed her challenge so much that she decided to take on a full marathon on the final leg of her run.

She said: "I was overwhelmed by the support and enthusiasm I received during the 50 days that I was running half marathons.

"My feet are a little the worse for wear but I’m so pleased I got through it. I’m grateful for the generous donations I received, it was so much more than I ever hoped to raise.

"I’m glad I did it, it was exhausting but great fun, so much so that on the 50th day I decided to run a full marathon, to celebrate coming to the end of the challenge. I might put my feet up for a while now.”

Mountjoy School caters for children with a range of complex needs including Autistic Spectrum Disorders and moderate to severe learning difficulties.

Further fundraising for equipment at Mountjoy School will take place during the annual summer bonanza next month. The proceeds from this, together with Ms Shanks' feat of endurance, which raised more than £275, should secure the funding needed for the equipment that the school is hoping for.

Chairman of the Friends Of Mountjoy School, Cheryl Baker, said: “What an incredible undertaking.

"What Jackie Shanks has done is absolutely jaw-dropping. When I first heard what she was planning I was a little sceptical, I wasn’t sure if it was even possible but Jackie is an extraordinary person, she’s very determined and has enormous energy.

"We are currently raising money to buy outdoor play equipment for the school and the money Jackie has raised will go a long way towards us meeting our target.”

The summer bonanza will be held at Mountjoy School on Saturday, June 18 from 2-4pm. For more information, please visit mountjoy.dorset.sch.uk