PUPILS treated pensioners to mince pies and cheery carols at a Darlington Christmas party.

Friends of the Town Mission, many of them nearing their 100th birthday, were entertained by pupils at the Jack Frost party of Polam Hall School, Darlington.

The party - held at the school - is run every December by sixth form students who prepare sandwiches and cakes and put on a full programme of Christmas songs involving younger pupils.

Bringing a touch of tinsel to the occasion was head girl Kemer Aydin, who prepared festive food with her peers and put up Christmas decorations.

Every visitor left the party with a gift and a Christmas card signed by sixth form students.

Headmaster John Moreland said: "Our pupils learn some valuable life skills organising and hosting an event such as this. It is very rewarding for them as well as adding to the strong sense of community that we foster within the school."

Town Missioner Sue Case said: "Christmas can be a lonely time for many of our Friends and occasions like this make all the difference. They always look forward to coming to Polam Hall and seeing the children and we are hugely grateful to the School for making us so welcome."