SCHOOLCHILDREN were visited by a suncare mascot who encouraged them to stay safe in the sun.

Sunshine Sam was joined by two suncare consultants from Boots chemist on the Greenwich Peninsula to speak to 150 pupils from Woodhill Primary School in Woodhill, Woolwich.

The youngsters read the Sunshine Sam Safety in the Sun story book while free packs of sun cream were handed out ahead of their sports day.

Headteacher Graham Gibson said: “All the children were thoroughly delighted to see Sunshine Sam at the school.

"It was a real treat for them, but it also carried a very important health message.”