STUDENTS at an Alcester school have been striving to raise hundreds of pounds for children in South Africa who face a bleak future.

Alcester High School pupils have already raised money to support Hope HIV, which raises cash for youngsters who have been orphaned by AIDS, many of whom now have HIV or AIDS themselves.

Numerous fund-raising drives have been taking place at the Gerard Road school, including penny collections, fancy dress events, cake sales, staff quizzes and sponsored silences.

And having been challenged to raise £500, the students have already proved they're a force to be reckoned with.

Head of RE Penny Hanson said: "I pointed out to the pupils that we all have so much at Christmas. Many of the children we're raising money for will not live to see another one.

"Every event which has taken place has been organised by the pupils themselves.

"Whenever they came up with a fund-raising idea they went to the headteacher to get his approval - they have worked very hard.

"I set them a challenge to raise £500 and we surpassed that. Everybody has worked very hard and should be proud of themselves."

"I set them a challenge to raise £500 and we surpassed that. Everybody has worked very hard and should be proud of themselves.