CHILDREN in the North-East are returning the goodwill gesture of counterparts in Russia.

As part of a peace project, pupils from County Durham’s Russian partner city of Kostroma decorated fabric squares with images and words of friendship.

In response, youngsters from a small village primary school near Durham are reciprocating, with the help of artist Clare Satow.

She has assisted year 5 and 6 pupils at Ludworth Primary School in designing and making similar quilted squares, for a peace blanket, conveying the same sentiment.

Durham County Council’s International Relations Office organised the project, backed by British Council funding.

It is aimed at helping children of both countries to creatively express their understanding and common desire for peace and unity in the world.

Half of the Ludworth youngsters’ creations are being sent back with visiting Kostroma teacher, Olga Popova, who has worked with pupils in County Durham, giving an insight into Russian culture.

The Ludworth youngsters’ creations were handed over by head teacher Joanne Sones and Ms Satow at a cultural evening at the Town Hall, in Durham, last week.

The work of the children in both countries is being formed onto wall hangings to be displayed at the schools in Ludworth and Kostroma.

It is hoped it will lead to further contact and collaboration between the two groups, helping them to develop language skills and raise cultural awareness.

Residents in both County Durham and Kostroma have taken part in joint projects involving schools, youth groups and arts organisations since the bond was forged in 1968.

International officer, Brian Stobie, said: “Our collaborative links with Russia are so beneficial to our children.

“They give pupils the opportunity to learn about a different culture and language, challenge stereotypes and form their own informed views about the interconnected world in which they live.”