EXCITED pupils from Even Swindon Junior School have been taking part in a balloon race to raise money for new playground benches.

They gathered at the McArthurGlen Designer Outlet centre to release the balloons into the clear blue sky.

Some contain vouchers for discounts at the Outlet Village by those who find the balloons. Each voucher can be redeemed for a 10 per cent discount card at the shopping centre.

For every balloon that is returned to the centre, McArthurGlen will donate £1 to the Even Swindon Infants. And one person could find a balloon containing £250 vouchers to spend.

Franco Muccini, centre manager at McArthurGlen, said: "We'd encourage everyone to look out for our balloons so they can raise lots of money for the school."

The school was thrilled it will receive this extra boost.

Acting headteacher Val Willis said: "We are really pleased to support the centre because they always invite us down to education activities.

"A lot of our parents actually work there so it's great for the children to get involved too.

"We are delighted we will have this extra money to buy benches for the playground."