A SCHOOL trip to the First World War battlefields has proved such a success that a return visit is being arranged for next year.

Boys from Hurworth House School joined girls from Polam Hall School, in Darlington, for the first time for their visit to France and Belgium over the summer.

The trip included visits to the First World War battlefields, Paris and Ypres.

Students and teachers walked across the Somme battlefield, visited the cemetery at Notre Dame de Lorette and viewed the main attractions in Paris.

The Polam Hall and Hurworth pupils were also in France during the Bastille Day celebrations.

Organiser Trish Pemberton, from Polam Hall School, said: "It was a wonderful experience.

"Pupils really benefited from visiting some of Europe's most historical sites.

"And I was very impressed with how much French everyone spoke, proving how our students excel in modern languages. We are very much looking forward to our trip next year."

Acting headteacher Susanne Davison, said: "It is the first time both schools have undertaken a joint visit like this."