SIXTH form students from Darlington’s Polam Hall School have entertained more than 40 elderly guests at their annual Sunshine Party.

The party has been held every year for the last 68 years with pensioners from the Darlington Town Mission enjoying entertainment, dancing and conversation with Polam Hall’s senior students.

Head girl, Chelsea Morrison hosted the event and welcomed the guests to the party, which was themed to celebrate the end of World War I and II.

Every guest was presented with their own handmade ration boxes and a commemorative book mark prepared by the students.

Polam Hall’s head of sixth form, Sue Dobson said: "The sixth form students have enjoyed the organisation of the party and enjoy meeting their guests every year; it is a great way to build stronger relationships between the generations.”

"The Darlington Mission is a wonderful local organisation that works to alleviate loneliness and gives practical advice and assistance to Darlington's older population.”

The afternoon was organised by the school’s sixth formers, who were on hand to pour tea and chat to the guests after cooking savoury scones, sandwiches and cakes.

One of the guests, Doris Green, was visiting for her third year running said: “It is wonderful to be invited to Polam Hall School for the Sunshine Party, they have made us feel so welcome, we have all had such a wonderful time, and it takes me back to D-Day!”

Town Mission organiser, Sue Case said: “Our members really look forward to this event every year, and are always impressed with the entertainment and the opportunity to enjoy a delicious afternoon tea with the students.”