PUPILS at Bedale High School are spreading Christmas joy to some of the poorest children in Europe.

The pupils have been working hard to collect donations to fill dozens of shoeboxes to send off to children in deprived parts of Europe.

Each shoebox is filled with essential items and goodies that will make a difference to less fortunate families.

The Rotary Club of Knaresborough visited the school this week to formally thank the pupils for their efforts.

Drama teacher and Shoebox organiser, Louise Woodward said: "Our students have done an amazing job with this initiative, really pulling together to make a difference.

"In these difficult times, it’s easy to forget others in the rush to focus on the national guidance, but thankfully at Bedale, we are able to safely offer a wide range of opportunities to our students in addition to the school curriculum."