Pupils from St Michael's RC School, Billingham brought a little extra Christmas cheer to Wynyard Woods Grange by performing a special carol service for the residents this week.

The students sang a selection of festive favourites for the folk who live at the residential home in Wynyard Woods,from Silent Night to We Wish you a Merry Christmas.

The visit was particularly moving for 93-year-old resident Eileen Newman, whose daughter Maureen Jamieson had been closely involved with the school until her death from cancer last year.

In a touching gesture the students, many of whom had known Maureen, presented the pensioner with a special bouquet of flowers in memory of her daughter who, as well as a teaching assistant at St Michael's, had also been both a governor and parent at the school.

Tony Carroll of St Michael's said: "Maureen epitomized the true spirit of St Michael's in the many roles that she undertook within the school.

"She would have been so proud today to hear our pupils singing for the residents, and especially since the audience included her Mum.

"The school has very strong links with our local community and the students give their time and energy freely to bring a sense of joy to the elderly, particularly during this advent season.

"They also benefit greatly from the response of the elderly, sharing conversations and memories."

Home manager Annette Jones added: "The residents absolutely loved it, they all really enjoyed joining in singing carols with the students.

"It was quite emotional for Eileen and she was a bit tearful but she was so proud to receive the flowers.

"Many of the pupils knew her daughter and she was over the moon when the students gave the bouquet to her. They have taken pride of place in her room."