DOZENS of senior citizens were treated to an extravagant Christmas bash at a North-East secondary school this Christmas season.

About 100 Darlington residents visited the town’s Longfield Academy for an annual OAP Christmas Party, where they were fed, served, and entertained by pupils.

An extensive Festive Afternoon Tea was provided, with the menu designed and prepared by pupils during Food Technology lessons, while Health and Social pupils took responsibility for setting up, serving visitors, and running the event.

The Northern Echo: Food Technician Mandy Phillips, with a very special visitor: her mum, Nancy HusbandFood Technician Mandy Phillips, with a very special visitor: her mum, Nancy Husband (Image: Chris Barron)

Lindsay Lees, Head of PE and Health & Social Care, who oversaw the pupils’ efforts, said: “I feel really proud to be part of Longfield, even more so on a day like today. This is exactly what our school is all about. Longfield is at the heart of our local community, and it’s just lovely to see so many people coming together once again to enjoy themselves.”

Visitors enjoyed an energetic line-up of talented pupil performers, including the 30-strong school choir, which performed Mariah Carey’s Christmas classic, ‘All I want For Christmas Is You’; dance acts; a rock band; and more.

The Northern Echo: The Icicle Girls, a dance troop of Year 7 performers, were on the bill.The Icicle Girls, a dance troop of Year 7 performers, were on the bill. (Image: Chris Barron)

The Northern Echo: Year 10 rock band, Table ThreeYear 10 rock band, Table Three (Image: Chris Barron)

The event was rounded-off with a standing raffle and game of bingo, before visitors were all presented with a laser-etched Longfield Academy Christmas Tree decoration, designed by Design Technology teacher, Miss Leighton, and crafted by Teaching Assistant, Claire Hogarth, using recycled materials in her own time.

The Northern Echo: Every visitor was gifted a limited edition Longfield Academy Christmas Tree decoration. From leftEvery visitor was gifted a limited edition Longfield Academy Christmas Tree decoration. From left (Image: Chris Barron)

“It’s been such a team effort to make this happen,” Mrs Lees added.

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“I want to say a huge thank you to the staff team behind the scenes who have contributed their skills and energy. We couldn’t have done it without them.

“But most of all, I have to congratulate the pupils. They’ve worked incredibly hard, and it can be a really nerve-wracking thing, especially at their age, to not just get up and perform for an unfamiliar audience, but even just to serve drinks, serve food, and make everybody feel welcome.

“They’ve all done themselves and the school proud today.”