JUSTIN Tomlinson joined parents and teachers last week as they cheered on the boys and girls from Oakhurst Primary School.

The MP for North Swindon looked on as the pupils laced up their trainers to take part in a fundraising run in aid of the British Heart Foundation.

The school set an ambitious target of £500 and the year 6 class put their all in to covering the distance.

Inspired by the determination and commitment of their students, even some of the teachers joined in.

Since becoming an MP, Justin has taken up a position as patron of the British Heart Foundation's Swindon branch.

The role has led to his participation in a number of fundraising and information events on behalf of the charity.

Last November he became a defibrillator champion and has since been supporting a campaign to get defibrillators into schools and public places across North Swindon.

The evidence shows that early access to a defibrillator in the event of a cardiac arrest can dramatically increase the chance of survival.

He has also supported the BHF's parliamentary campaign to get lifesaving skills into the national curriculum.

Justin said: “It was fantastic to see students so enthusiastic to raise money for the British Heart Foundation and we enjoyed cheering them on as they raced around.

"As a patron of the Swindon branch of the British Heart Foundation I know only too well how much their fund raising efforts are appreciated.”