A PRIMARY school has secured all the funding it needs for its big project thanks to a boost from a crowdsourcing evening.

Year six pupils from All Saints Primary School in Highlands Drive received £300 from the Maldon SOUP evening.

This boosts their total to the £12,198 they need to buy materials for their Maldon UP project which aims to help the elderly at Longfield Care Home in Fambridge Close.

Head teacher Philip Brown said that the money came at a timely point in their fundraising, leaving them with six days to spare.

Mr Brown said: “This was the first time we had pitched at an event like this and it was a great experience, not only for me, but for the Year six pupils who spoke about the project that the money will support.

“It was great to hear about all the projects that are being championed in our community and it was interesting and encouraging to note that so many people are seeking to achieve very similar goals in tackling loneliness within our community and supporting the vulnerable.

“I was incredibly proud of the children who spoke so confidently and am delighted that we were successful in winning the money on offer.”

The pupils pitched their idea at the first Maldon SOUP event, a project where community groups can pitch their ideas to the public for a chance of winning funds on the night.

CVS director Sarah Trooplaskar said: “It was a really good turnout and the group spoke clearly about their goals.

“Our official theme was winter warmth but the running theme from the night seemed to be bringing people together.

“It was a successful night and we hope to run one next year in February.”

NHS Mid Essex Clinical Commissioning Group has been working to bring pupils into the care home to spend time with people with dementia.

A spokesman said: “We are delighted to see the hard work of young people paying off and earning them a grant for their project.

“The extra funding they secured is a credit to them and a brilliant example not only of their commitment but of our community coming together to help each other live well.”

To read more about Maldon UP, visit spacehive.com/maldon_up_project.