THE massive Macmillan Coffee Morning at Alva Academy last week was "without a doubt" the busiest yet.

Children and staff at the school once again brought together the wider community in an event that was about much more than a hot brew and collection buckets.

As reported last week, the academy broke the one-third of a million pound running total over the years, firmly retaining its position as the largest non-corporate donor to the cancer support charity.

This year alone, the tally is standing at more than a staggering £40,000 with still more events coming to net valuable funds.

However, what is more important for staff is that the children are giving up their free time to do something worthwhile, to serve their communities and help others in need – firmly putting in place the values the school holds dear.

There have been a raft of events organised by the pupils, who are always led by the current S6s, with sponsored hikes and cycles, bag packs, a duck race, disco for primary schools, musical entertainment at local care homes, in-school events like the Day of Dance and new this year was the Day of Football.

The coffee morning is always the highlight and the school was buzzing, packed with visitors from around the county, including primary school children.

A variety of stalls, games, raffles, challenges on stage and much more were on offer last Friday, September 27.

Teacher David Clifford is one of three staff closely supporting the pupils in their efforts each year.

He said: "It was without a doubt the busiest one we've ever had.

"The place was packed and as a school we cannot thank the community enough for coming out to support the pupils and the charity in the droves.

"It was lovely.

"The best thing about Friday was that every single pupil, from primary school and secondary school, and every member of the public did exactly what we want them to do: they raised money by having a smile on their face.

"The place was just filled with laughter, smiles and the most positive atmosphere."

Among the many visitors on Friday was Councillor Les Sharp who was enjoying a terrific atmosphere and admired the fundraising efforts, which happen throughout the year.

He said: "The way they do it is by fun and getting people engaged; look at all the parents and grandparents coming along."

Cllr Dave Clark was also soaking up the fun and said: "The young people at this school are exceptional, I am running short of language to describe my admiration for them."

He added: "How could this not be a good thing to put on your CV, that you are part of this adventure, it's just wonderful."

MSP Keith Brown was also spotted in the crowd and congratulated all for the hard work.

He said: "Alva Academy's Macmillan Coffee Morning is a fantastic fundraiser for Macmillan Cancer Support, an organisation that does brilliant work supporting those with cancer and their families."