A virtual balloon race is being held to raise funds for much-needed school play equipment.

The community has been asked to support Sidmouth Primary School PTFA which would like to raise £500 for new playground equipment.

All the children are in 'class bubbles' so the equipment cannot be shared between the play groups. This means that every bubble has to have their own.

Covid means the PTFA cannot run its annual Christmas Fair so will instead launch a virtual balloon race on Saturday, October 31.

More than 50 supporters have helped to raise more than £320 and the Sidmouth community is needed to help the school reach its £500 target.

Children can choose the shape of their balloon, name it and then decorate it.

They can then follow their balloon's progress for the duration of the race which is seven days.

All balloons will set off from Dracula's Castle, with the furthest one winning.

It is £3 per balloon to take part.

Speaking on behalf of the PTFA, Claire Louise Housden said: "For the children, it's great to have plenty to do within their bubbles as they can not mix with other children.