A WARM-HEARTED group of teenagers want to bridge a generation gap by hosting a festive dinner and dance for Darlington’s elderly residents.

The dozen local teens, all aged between 16 and 17, are holding the event at Bondgate Methodist Church Hall on December 8 as part of their work with the National Citizen Service which encourages teenagers to engage with their community.

Their team leader, Vicki Worrall, said the youths came up with the idea themselves and wanted to do something to benefit the town’s elderly residents – particularly those facing the festive period alone.

She said: “The reason behind this is that they feel an issue in Darlington is the divide between the young and the elderly and they want to do something themselves in order to bring the two communities together.

“All food will be served by the young people and they will be mingling with everyone there and dancing with them too.”

The event will run between 11.30am and 3pm, and will include a pie and pea lunch, tombola, tea and coffee, dancing and festive entertainment with a live band.

It is all free and for the over 60s.

The group needs to know numbers in advance so contact Vicki on 07527238157 or Liam 07585718547 for more information and to book a place.