Wednesday February 3, saw students from Waldegrave School in Twickenham, running a special day in aid of Cancer Research. 1,200 students took part in the day, which was set up to celebrate the life of David Bowie, who died from the disease last month.

Philippa Nunn, Headteacher, said: “We had a brilliant day raising awareness for this great cause and having some fun. Thanks to all of the staff and students who made this happen.”

Students were invited to dress up in Bowie style and used face paint to mimic Bowie’s alter ego Ziggy Stardust, an extra terrestrial character whose aim was to bring messages of peace and hope to the people on Earth.

Each student paid £1 for the privilege of being dressed in mufti and there were some weird and wonderful outfits to imitate Bowie’s style.

Sylvie Varcoe, a pupil from Waldegrave, said: “I took part because Bowie was so eccentric, but also totally on-point with his fashion. He had amazing influence. The school showed that off today.”

In total the school raised over £2,000 during the day made up of £1 donations from students, the sale of unity bands and the lunchtime fashion show, modelled by pupils from each year group.