ELDERLY neighbours of a Middlesbrough school have come together for an annual Christmas treat hosted by young people.
Some of the visitors to The King's Academy, in Coulby Newham, have been to the senior citizens' tea party every year since it started, keeping the date as a chance to meet up with friends and enjoy the entertainment put on by students.
Jean Aldren, 90, of Nunthorpe, said: "We wouldn't miss it for the world, we've been for the last seven years. The young ones make me smile. They can sing and dance. It's a lovely academy and the young people are so courteous."
Mrs Aldren joined friends Rita Helm, Diana Riley and Helen Swan for the afternoon, which this year included songs from the musicals, a nativity drama and dance by student performers, and jokes by host and Head of Drama Eddie Jones.
The event was also an opportunity for some of the students to meet up with residents from Kirkley Lodge care home, where a group of sixth formers help with activities as part of their enrichment.
Student Georgia Blake, 17, who is studying A Levels in business, English language and sociology, said: "We have the chance to do voluntary work and I love going to the care home. The residents are always so pleased to see us and I love helping with activities for them. I’ve been going since September and I wouldn't want to not go now."
As well as enjoying an afternoon tea prepared by Head of Food Barbara Wilberforce, the guests each received a gift of chocolates, supported by a donation from Tesco.
Mrs Wilberforce added: "It's always a pleasure to invite our neighbours into the academy and to provide them with a special afternoon. The students really enjoy it and some of the guests tell us it's a highlight of their year."
