LITTLE ones sprang into action to raise much-needed funds for their pre-school.

Children took part in a sponsored bunny hop for Little Jimmy’s, based at St James’ Church Hall in Tower Road, Clacton.

Gazette: Little Jimmys

Hop to it - Tommy Macnamara

They had two minutes to bounce as many times as possible and all completed between 75 and 200 jumps.

The children have raised nearly £1,500 and that “staggering” figure will undoubtedly grow, as parents have until the end of the month to return their sponsorship forms.

Gazette: Little Jimmys

Spring in his step - Oscar Miskell

Deputy manager Amber Coldron said: “Due to Covid, we’ve not been able to hold any fundraising events since our twilight fete in 2019.

“It’s a real blow because in addition to raising money for the nursery, these event brings other charities and businesses together.

Gazette: Little Jimmys

Leaping into action - Oakley Bullard

“This year, we decided to hold a sponsored bunny hop, where the children jumped as many times as they could in two minutes.

“Parents gathered sponsorship money from friends and family and have raised funds to support their children.

Gazette: Little Jimmys

Hop, skip and jump - James Blay

“We’ve only had about 25 per cent of our parents return their forms - they’ve got until the end of the month - and so far already we’ve raised a staggering £1,435.

“We’ve been amazed at the response, considering most parents and families have been affected by the pandemic either in terms of job loss or money shortage.”

Gazette: Little Jimmys

Beaming with pride - Esme Wilson

Little Jimmy’s Pre-School has been in existence since 1968.

In addition to its indoor facilities, it now has a new sensory garden created by staff which benefits a number of children who do not have a garden at home.

Gazette: Little Jimmys

Hop, hop hooray - Amelia Pukrop

“Throughout lockdown, our children and families have shown nothing but resilience in dealing with the changes and struggles thrown at them,” added Mrs Coldron.

“We’re very proud of them and look forward to spending the money raised on new resources and items for our pre-school.

Gazette: Little Jimmys

Jumping with joy - Roma-Eve Dodd

“We’re in the process of getting new ‘trough’ sinks fitted, so the children are able to wash their hands in groups, increasing their independence.

“Some of the money raised will help pay for this.

Gazette: Little Jimmys

Springing into action - George Holman

“On a personal note, I’m also proud of our experienced, enthusiastic and dedicated team of practitioners, who work closely together across all aspects of the nursery, supporting and mentoring each other.

“They’ve been chosen for their ability to provide the highest standard of care to each child in their supervision and their commitment to delivering an excellent service to the families who come to us is second to none.”

Gazette: Little Jimmys

Big smile - Fearne Bentley

Gazette: Little Jimmys

Action man - Mason Moore

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