HUNDREDS of schoolchildren and staff will be donning something pink for a non-uniform day to raise cash for a Bacup toddler battling leukaemia.

Ten schools have confirmed they will participate in the event in aid of three-year-old Anna Brooks, who was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia in August last year.

Team Anna, a group of volunteers fundraising for CLIC Sargent, which provides care for children with cancer including Anna, are planning to stage the event on Friday, February 14.

Last month, the team lost £2,500 in cash donations after Blossoms Private Day Nursery, the nursery Anna attended before becoming too ill, was raided by thieves who ripped the safe off the wall.

Sara Steel, of Team Anna, said: “It was a real blow having half the money we’d raised in six months stolen.

“But despite the setback, organisation of future events has continued apace.

“As well as the non-uniform day, we are hosting a Mother’s Day Market on Sunday, March 23 at Pioneer Gym.

“Other events include a team entry into the Rossendale Triathlon, a zumbathon and a ladies night to name a few.”

Schools taking part in the day so far are Bacup and Rawtenstall Grammar School, Bacup St Mary’s RC Primary School, Sharneyford Primary School, St Mary’s RC Primary School, Haslingden.

Our Lady and St Anselm’s RC Primary School, Whitworth, Bacup Nursery School, Blossoms Private Day Nursery, Northern Primary School, St Peter’s RC Primary School, Newchurch, and Haslingden St James CofE Primary School are also taking part.

Anna is currently undergoing treatment at Manchester Children’s Hospital. To make a donation to Anna’s cause, visit www.justgiving.com/ teams/teamannafund.