STAFF at a Weymouth school have been tackling a food challenge with a difference, and with an important social message.

A number of staff at All Saints School decided to experience what it is like to live below the poverty line by signing up to the Below the Line challenge, an initiative of the Global Poverty Project.

Participants must live on £1 a day for five days, meaning they have just £5 with which to buy all ingredients for meals.

It aims to deepen understanding of the challenges faced by people living in extreme poverty and to raise funds for anti-poverty initiatives.

This year, it is running in the UK, US and Canada simultaneously, with thousands of people spending five days below the poverty line.

The challenge finished yesterday.

Head of art at All Saints Brian Smith said: “This idea is a global initiative to help raise awareness of the plight of many families and communities around the world who barely have enough food to live on.

“Rather than simply donate money, many of the staff felt that this was a good way to join in.”

Mr Smith said pupils have had a chance to take part and there have been a number of activities taking place during the week to further highlight the issues.

PE teacher Simon Rich said: “I am always on the go and with little food I know I could get tired easily but I am glad I am taking part and feel we have support.”