BOYS at a Potters Bar school have raised thousands of pounds to help underprivileged children living thousands of miles away.

The Lochinver School pupils have raised nearly �10,000 for children in South Africa – a country 24 boys will be visiting for a two-week tour from April 7.

And to help promote their forthcoming trip, a charity dinner, auction and raffle took place earlier this month at the Heath Road school, hosted by former Scotland international rugby player, now BBC commentator, Ian Robertson.

A school spokeswoman told the Potters Bar Edition: “It was a tremendous success and as a result of extremely skilful auctioneering, Mr Robertson encouraged the guests to part with nearly �10,000 in exchange for some fantastic prizes.

“They [the boys] have been very busy raising funds to support the Sethani Charity in Kwa-Zulu Natal, just outside Durban, which they sponsored on their previous visit [in 2008].

“The majority of the money will go towards the charity which the boys will visit during their tour, to see first-hand how they, together with their parents and friends of Lochinver, have helped children who are not so fortunate as themselves.”

The spokeswoman added: “Lochinver House pupils are incredibly lucky to be able to take part in such an experience.

“They will also play some tough rugby games against St John’s College, Hillcrest Primary School, Umhlali Prep School and Jan Celliers School, where they will be playing in bare feet!”

Other activities will include a visit to Table Mountain, experiencing Zulu culture and traditions in Shakaland, swimming in the Indian and Atlantic Oceans, stick fighting, making spears, and watching a Super 14 rugby game.