Pupils and staff at Grey Court School have “exceeded all expectations” in their efforts to help islanders on hurricane ravaged Dominica.

The island was left devastated after Hurricane Maria tore through it indiscriminately, killing 27 people, destroying homes, and leaving people in desperate need of aid.

More than 50 islanders are still missing.

Two weeks ago, form tutors talked with their classes about the extent of the damage and the school’s head of technology and commerce, Richard Jacob, researched the best way to organise practical help.

He expected students to fill two drums. Instead, today (Friday 13), they filled a whopping six drums with vital supplies from dried food to bedding, batteries to torches.

Deputy Head teacher, Christopher Rhodes, said: “We are a close knit community and the energy of the place is amazing.

“The response of our children and their parents to this initiative has been extraordinary and we’re very proud of them.”

The drums were collected today by GEE Shipping to be sent direct to the island to help the relief effort.

Local superstore, Sainsbury’s in Richmond, responded to the school’s community campaign by contributing £30 to the relief effort which was “gratefully received”.