PUPILS took a short break from the classroom to exercise their hearts and lungs as well as their brains, as part of a national exercise challenge.

Children at The Valley Community School in Astley Bridge ran 1km or 1 mile around their school grounds, as part of the ‘10 at 10’ initiative.

The campaign encourages schools to get children taking part in a 10-minute workout at 10am on National Fitness Day, which took place recently.

They were joined by local police representatives, including Pippa the Panda and PCSO Ann Barrett.

The school’s PE co-ordinator Craig Vickers said: "We were keen to get involved in this national campaign and show our commitment. It’s so important that pupils are given high quality PE lessons, as well as the opportunity to join lots of school clubs before, during and after school clubs.

"Children also need to know that exercise can be as easy and fun as a quick 20-minute run with their friends."

Fatima Umarji, aged nine, is a member of the school running club.

She said: "Running is fun and it helps me get fit, I think better because is boosts my brain. I also sleep better."

Aayan Patel, also aged nine, added: "I love keeping fit by running, playing football and cricket. It makes me feel full of energy.”

Local PCSO Ann Barrett said the event also supported community engagement.

She said: "National Fitness Day was celebrated with fun and enthusiasm by hundreds of children at The Valley Community School, it was a great day."

National Fitness Day is designed to celebrate the fun and thrills of physical activity.

Across the UK, more than 20,000 free events took place in gyms, leisure centres, parks, schools, and universities and as over one million people lace up their trainers and embrace being active for the day.

National Fitness Day is co-ordinated by not-for-profit health body ukactive. The kick-off event was led by Strictly Come Dancing star Darcey Bussell.

Last year’s National Fitness Day got over a million people active across 18,000 events — making it the most active day of 2016 — with this year’s event on course to significantly surpass it.