Pupils learn the symbolism of Christingle

SCHOOL children have been helping to cast light on the plight of residents who need help to avoid going hungry.

Pupils from West Park Academy, Darlington, visited their parish church to learn about the symbolism of Christingle and donate much-needed provisions for its food bank.

More than 50 Year 4 children were invited to St Mary's Church in Cockerton to learn about symbolism in the Christmas story and Christingle.

They met Father Damon Bage spending an hour and a half hearing about what Christmas means.

As part of the study visit, the children donated a large amount of food to give to local families in need of help.

Back in the classroom they made their own Christingle decorations using an orange to represent the world, ribbon, sweets and a candle to shed light on humanity, before singing festive songs.

Year 4 teacher Sarah Goodwin said: “Children were quite shocked that we needed a food bank in Darlington and were eager to donate food and bags to carry it in. Father Damon was fantastic and so welcoming.”