PUPILS have been rewarded for going the extra mile by giving up their spare time to help other people.

Three groups of friends at Tudhoe Grange School, Spennymoor, landed Nationwide Awards for Voluntary Endeavour because of their achievements outside the classroom.

FAB - the school's Fighting Against Bullying support group - was launched three years ago by six girls who heard of similar schemes to tackle bullying in other schools.

The year 11 students hold confidential drop-in sessions every Tuesday and Thursday for pupils who feel bullied to talk about their problems in confidence.

Member Lindsey Phillips said: "This award is really good because it recognises that we have been able to make school a happier place for these pupils."

First aiders Kaylee Watson, 16, Katherine Fell, 14, Becky Warren, 13, and Michael Evans, 16, won a volunteer's award as members of the St John Ambulance Cadets- Spennymoor Unit. They were also named joint runners-up in a national schools first aid contest.

Katherine said: "It is nice to be recognised for our efforts representing the school and our work with St John Ambulance."

And best friends Michelle Cant and Lisa Crick, both 15, picked up a similar award for the hours they have spent as voluntary carers in Craigarran Nursing Home, in Trimdon.

The pair visit elderly residents, help them at dinnertime and make the beds.

Lisa said: "We're over the moon with this award, it is nice to know our efforts are noticed."