PUPILS who defied rules at a Runcorn school to support charities have won a temporary reprieve.

The Grange in Latham Avenue has lifted its ban on children wearing charity badges on their blazers.

Around 70 students who flouted the rule were taken out of lessons on Friday, sparking outrage on social media and hundreds of people signing a petition.

Head of School Barry Carney has now written to all parents saying he is lifting the ban.

He said: “I have decided to suspend the school rule pertaining to charity badges as it is not in the best interests of students at this time.

“We are willing to accept students wearing charity pin badges.

“The issues raised by our students need to be carefully reviewed in the context of our school rules on uniform and appearance.”

He said he has spoken to students and plans to consult with parents in future discussions.

Mr Carney added: “I hope that the energy generated on Friday can now be directed into lessons and learning.”

Many of the pupils protesting about the ban said they were remembering relatives who had died from cancer.

Corinne Versleys, whose daughter Caitlin was taken out of lessons, said: "The majority of kids wearing them are dealing with family members with cancer."

Pupils can now wear their pins and Marie Curie daffodils until a permanent resolution is found.