STAFF and pupils of Princetown Primary School were pleased to be able to present a cheque for £246 to Devon Air Ambulance recently.

The outstanding amount was raised by the parents and children at the school’s Christmas play.

Suzie Stevens, a new addition to the Princetown Primary School senior leadership team as head of teaching and learning, said: ‘It’s one of our core beliefs that children learn from an early age the importance of giving back to the community and they grow up to enjoy the feeling of belonging and become actively part of the community in their adult years. It’s an essential part of our life learning skills programme.

‘As a newcomer to the school, I am overwhelmed by the generosity of the parents from this small school where we enjoy strong and positive links with many local communities, businesses and organisations. I’m excited to be on-board.’

Emma Burchell, a higher level teaching assistant, said: ‘The children at the school did research on a number of charities and chose Devon Air Ambulance as their favourite. They decided they wanted to support a local community charity; it’s quite likely the children may even remember the couple of occasions that Devon Air Ambulance has needed to land here in the playground to help with life threatening medical emergencies.’

Princetown, being an isolated community which supports remote farming, hosts many events and tourist activities and offers a good example of the people who most benefit from this essential service.

Tony Cannon, volunteer representative from the Devon Air Ambulance Trust (DAAT) has given a talk to the school to highlight the essential work it does and to thank the children for their outstanding contribution.

The DAAT relies entirely on contributions from the community. Approximately 1,100 missions are completed per year. The service is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year.

To make a donation, visit www.daat.org or call 01392 466666.