CHILDREN and staff at Cheriton Fitzpaine Primary School recently wore purple for the day to raise awareness of Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis.

One of the pupils at the school, Sophie, suffers from the condition and Mrs Deborah Wright, class teacher explained: "We felt it was important for all the children to realise that sometimes we are unable to see that someone is feeling unwell or in pain.

"Sophie was diagnosed with the debilitating illness aged just three-years-old after suffering from swollen knees and ankles.

"With treatment Sophie is able to carry on with all aspects of school life – and normally does so with a beaming smile.  She is a delightful member of the school."

A grand total of £227.91 was raised for the JIA charity during the day.

For further information about the charity, visit the website: http://www.jia.org.uk/what-is-jia- .

Alan Quick