YOUNGSTERS at three West Somerset schools have raised more than £1,000 during an RNLI SOS Day for the lifeboat service.

PUPILS and teachers raised funds for charity by paying to wear trainers to lessons. Colourful RNLI shoelaces were also sold at £1 a pair.

Pupils at St Dubricius First School, Porlock, raised £103, while their friends at Minehead First School amassed £283.

Students at West Somerset College raised a record £780, making a total of £1,166 for the RNLI.

Chris Blazey, headteacher at St Dubricius said: "Although the coastline near the school is magnificent, our surroundings have made us all the more conscious of the potential dangers of the sea.

"I am sure this is a major reason why we have keenly supported the RNLI for several years."

Barry Lanham, education officer for the Minehead and district branch of the Lifeboat Guild, said: "The was a tremendous effort, and the youngsters can be proud of themselves."