participating in a "readathon''.

Some 200 students took part, persuading friends and family to make a donation for every book read. One student read $140 worth of books after teacher and readathon organiser, Mrs. Kay Latter suggested the idea in September.

The money will benefit the Bermuda Red Cross Rwanda Appeal which is fast closing in on its $50,000 target.

"It taught the children a lot about how to help other people,'' Mrs. Latter said. "Rwanda just jumped out at me when I read about it in the papers.'' Red Cross spokesman Mr. Frank Gamble said he was touched by the children's efforts.

"It is just so wonderful to see young people helping in this way. It seemed the youngest participants were the most enthusiastic.

"Not only did they get to do some good reading, but they helped a good cause.'' BOOKWORMS -- Mark Amaral presented a cheque for $4,400 to Red Cross spokesman, Mr. Frank Gamble yesterday on behalf of Saltus junior students. The children read 800 books for Rwanda during a "readathon'' which began in September.

Teachers, Mrs. Susie Hall (left) and Mrs. Kay Latter organised the event.