Pupils at a village school congregated for a church service earlier this week to celebrate an award win.

Youngsters at Gainford Church of England Primary School, between Darlington and Barnard Castle, celebrated the school winning the Growing Faith Partnership Award, which recognises its working partnership with the church and households.

A service of thanksgiving was delivered by the Bishop of Durham Paul Butler at St Mary’s Church, Gainford on Monday afternoon with school staff, pupils, and members of the church community all in attendance.

Darlington and Stockton Times: The Bishop of Durham, The Rt Rev'd Paul Butler at the Growing Faith Foundation Partnership Award at St Marys Church, Gainford he is pictured with from left Rev Eileen Harrop, Chris Riley Head of Gainford CE Primary School, Jill Young Chair of

The school is the first to be awarded the award from the Growing Faith Partnership.

Pupils joined in hymns, songs and prayers at the service as the bishop presented the school with a certificate.

Darlington and Stockton Times: Pupils from Gainford CE Primary School at the Growing Faith Foundation Partnership Award at St Marys Church, Gainford Picture: SARAH CALDECOTT

Darlington and Stockton Times: Pupils from Gainford CE Primary School at the Growing Faith Foundation Partnership Award at St Marys Church, Gainford Picture: SARAH CALDECOTT