CHILDREN have been working to help youngsters less fortunate than themselves by raising money for a Samaritans' campaign.

East Cowton Primary School, between Northallerton and Darlington, and people from the parish of the Cowtons have rallied together to raise 155 shoeboxes for the Samaritans' Operation Christmas Child appeal.

The total exceeds the 145 shoeboxes raised during the operation for 2014.

The shoeboxes filled with gifts will make life more bearable for children all over the world in areas filled with war, poverty, famine and injustice.

The school would like to thank all who coordinated and donated towards this very worthy cause and to Canon Rachel Stowe who blessed the boxes before they were collected.

Helen Dudman, headteacher, said "This is my first year as headteacher at the school and I am extremely proud of the amazing effort on behalf of the children and wider community in supporting this worthwhile cause.

“It will make a real difference to disadvantaged children at such a special time of year."