CHILDREN have been rewarded for their work in the community by Sunderland Football Club.

More than 20 schools across County Durham have taken part in the club's Shining Through citizenship programme this year, which encourages youngsters to make a positive contribution to community life.

South Moor Greenland Community Infant and Bloemfontein Primary schools, both near Stanley, Thornhill Primary School, in Shildon, Gainford Church of England Primary School and Leadgate Community Infant School and Nursery Unit, near Consett, have won awards for their efforts.

Pupils were presented with their schools' prizes, PlayStation 2 consoles, by defender Jody Craddock at half-time during Sunderland's home match against Chelsea.

The schools' activities included a party for pensioners, choir performances in hospitals, recycling schemes, bring-and-buy sales and mentoring schemes.

Ann Nelson, Durham County Council's associate inspector for citizenship, said: "The scheme is a great way to encourage and recognise the contribution pupils make to the school and local community, and the personal improvement of those who change direction or overcome some adversity in responding to school and community values.''

The scheme was launched in County Durham in November 2000. Other schemes now operate in Sunderland, North Yorkshire and South Tyneside.

Sunderland Football Club's marketing director, Jim Slater, said: "As a football club we are in a unique position to make a positive difference to the lives of children.

"We are very pleased to do that once again with this particular initiative, which gives schools the chance to help their pupils become better and more effective members of the local community.''