After a difficult year for all, one school has suffered a huge financial blow – but its latest event hopes to change that.

As Covid put a stop to gatherings, games and fundraising efforts across the nation back in March, Lorton School was forced to cancel its annual events which help keep things running smoothly.

While they typically host a 10k run, a duck race, summer fair and tiger boat race to name just a few, staff members, pupils and parents were forced to halt them all to keep everyone safe during the worrying time of coronavirus.

But all hope is not lost for the hard working team, who have put together a virtual quiz in place of their usual events.

Organised by Friends of Lorton School, the primary school’s PTA, the quiz is set to take place on October 16, and everyone across Cumbria and beyond is welcome to join in.

Teams of up to six people can take part and put their knowledge to the test, with tickets costing £10 – and maybe even a prize or two to be won.

Familiar faces from throughout the community will be featured in the quiz, with everyone from Lorton School’s head teacher Olivia Harrison, Helen the school chef and even the youngsters’ bus driver to staff at the village shop and pub popping up on the screen to ask the 10 quiz questions.

But if a cosy quiz night from the comfort of your couch doesn’t quite fit the bill, the group is also offering raffle tickets for just £1 each.

As with the quiz, the raffle offers a range of special prizes, with many donated by local businesses, including a fabulous weekend away for a family of four at a Grasmere hotel, and a two-night camping trip at Pooley Bridge.

There’s even something for animal lovers, as the brilliantly popular Alpacaly Ever After – with four locations across Keswick – has donated a meet-and-greet with the furry friends as a prize for one lucky raffle winner.

All money raised will go towards funding equipment and special activities for the children to use during school time, with every single penny greatly appreciated by staff, pupils and parents.

To get involved, and play your part in supporting the school, visit Friends of Lorton School’s events page at www.pta-events.co.uk/friendsoflortonschool.