CHRISTMAS has come early with cake, carols and lots of cups of tea for elderly neighbours of a Northumberland school.
Bede Academy, in Blyth, opened its doors to welcome local residents to a festive afternoon tea served by students.
Teacher Graeme Murray said: "It's wonderful for us to spend time with our neighbours in friendship and fellowship and we thoroughly enjoy hosting them and, in many cases, seeing them return time and again."
The 35 pensioners enjoyed an array of sandwiches and savoury bites, cakes, doughnuts and mince pies prepared by the academy's catering team.
Sixth formers and Year 9 prefects served the visitors and chatted with them in the academy restaurant while pianist Dylan Fletcher and other student musicians played carols and Christmas songs.
Sophie Robson, 16, got to serve her own grandma Carol Robson, who was among the guests.
"I was nervous at first because I've never served people like this before, but I love making conversation so it's been really good," said Sophie.
One of the guests Maureen Swan said she had attended the academy's teas every year since moving back to her home town of Blyth seven years ago.
"When I first came I was extremely impressed with the manners and behaviour of the children and the whole feel of the place. I'm glad to say that over the years that hasn't changed at all.
"It's nice for the youngsters to meet and mix with the local residents and it's nice for the older people to be with the children," said Mrs Swan.
As well as neighbours from nearby streets, the academy also welcomed residents of Nye Bevan House sheltered accommodation and South Quay Care Home.