PUPILS are sacrificing part of their half-term holiday to give elderly and vulnerable residents a treat.

Students at Greencroft School, in Annfield Plain, near Stanley, are taking part in Bake a Difference Day, on Monday, October 25.

More than 70 guests from residential homes and day centres in north Durham will spend the afternoon enjoying a tea party at the school. There will also be entertainment from magician Paul Lytton and singer Joyce Shaw.

The event has been organised in partnership with Derwentside Council for Voluntary Services and Derwent- side Volunteer Bureau, which are recruiting volunteers to work with students on the day.

Barbara Webb, CVS administrator, said: "We really wanted an event to get the whole community involved. It is about promoting voluntary work, but also raising the profile of the school."

The event is part of national Make a Difference Day, when people are encouraged to give up their time to help others.

Pupils, supervised by staff, will bake the cakes and scones for the party. Bake a Difference Day takes place from noon to 2.30pm. Anyone interested should contact Mrs Webb on (01207) 218855.