Packets of Smarties have helped one primary school buy not one, but two, pieces of life-saving equipment.

Thomlinson Junior School in Wigton raised £1,700 to buy a defibrillator through an innovative scheme devised by sports coach Gina Wilson.

The school bought each child who wanted to take part a tube of the sweets and when they'd eaten them all they were encouraged to do jobs around the house for their parents.

In return they'd make a donation of 20p and put the coins in the Smarties tube until it was full. Each tube contained about £11 worth of coins.

The youngsters, with about 170 taking part, raised the money at the end of last term.

All children at the school have taken a big interest in health after having regular sessions with Alastair Guthrie from Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service who's been coming into to teach years three to four about first aid skills, including how to use a defibrillator.

"Every child in our school now knows how to use one," Gina said.

"So I said it would be good to have one for us to have in school because now they all know how to use one. I thought it would be something good."

Gina then got in touch with the North West Ambulance Service (NWAS) to ask about which type of defibrillator would be suitable for the school.

They were put in touch with Cumbrian company Eden Lifeline. Having heard about the challenge and the youngsters' efforts the company said they'd be happy to donate a defibrillator for the outside of the school free of charge.

The offer was gladly accepted by the school, but Gina says the money was raised with the intention of having a defibrillator for use inside the school.

So with the cash they raised they've bought a portable one that they can use themselves to accompany the public defibrillator which is due to be fitted any time now.

Children will be able to brush up on their first aid skills twice a year with refresher courses.

Gina added: "It's really helped the children learn a new and vital skill."