PUPILS at Oaktree Nursery and Primary School are lacing up their trainers in the run-up to Easter to complete their own marathon challenge.

The youngsters are spending their break times and lunch running laps on the school's fenced sports court in a bid to conquer the 42-kilometre challenge by Good Friday.

The idea came after senior teacher Val Weston heard about another local primary holding its own endurance race.

"I thought we could try our own marathon and if we stagger the laps we could all complete it before Easter," she said.

"The children have really thrown themselves into it wholeheartedly and have been out here every day running laps."

Each child must run 296 laps of the court to complete the marathon.

They each have a record card, which is ticked off every time they each reach a kilometre.

"We think it's a big step for Oaktree but we know we can do it." said Year 6 pupil Sheree.

Friend Alesha added: "I think it's a really good idea because it's helping us become fitter."

The children will be rewarded every time they reach a marathon milestone, claiming certificates for running 1km, 5km and 10km.

The youngsters have even designed their own awards for when they complete their challenge.

Swindon MP Anne Snelgrove has told the youngsters she may even join them in a bid to get in shape for the summer.

Ms Weston said: "I told Anne what we were doing and she said she had been trying to get fitter this year so would be delighted to join in.

"I think a few people have been a bit curious about what we are up to because every time we start the laps we seem to draw a bit of a crowd.

"Even the builders on the site nearby have stopped to watch us racing about."

Oaktree Primary hopes to round things off with a toddler mini-marathon where mums and dads can wheel their buggies around the court.

Ms Weston said: "Everyone seems really keen to get on board - even the little ones at the school so we're thinking about doing something there whether it's a fun run or a buggy race.

"It might not be the Flora London Marathon but it's something that has really taken off and is helping to get the kids even more involved in sport."