AN RAF squadron has taken a primary school under its wing as a way of paying tribute to one of their colleagues who died in a parachuting accident.

Youngsters of St Helen Auckland Primary School, Bishop Auckland, enjoyed an afternoon at RAF Leeming as guests of 34 Squadron RAF Regiment. The school was presented with a cheque for £1,000 in memory of Andrew Wilson. Mr Wilson, who lived with his parents in St Helen Auckland, died in a parachute accident near Shotton Airfield, near Peterlee, in June.

After his death, the 34 Squadron held a rugby match in Bishop Auckland and auctioned the 25-year-old's kit to raise £6,000.

The squadron decided to sponsor Mr Wilson's former primary school, where his mother, Christine, is secretary.

Mrs Wilson said: "I'm delighted the money will help the children."