SILENCE was golden at Queen Mary's school this week when pupils took to the stage to raise money for Children in Need.

Ninety girls at the independent school at Topcliffe took part in a miming competition, performing a series of sketches for their fellow students.

The competition was organised by senior pupils as part of the Duke of Edinburgh award scheme.

"This was very much an event organised by the girls for the girls," said Mrs Margaret Angus, joint principal.

"As well as raising money for an important children's charity and being a key part of the Duke of Edinburgh's award, they thoroughly enjoyed both practising and performing, it was a lot of fun."

Other charity events being held by the school include a talk by North Yorkshire farmer and mountaineer, Mr Chris Brown, to raise money to fund the education of a Nepalese boy.

On Wednesday, the school will hold a reception and presentation evening in support of the charity Hope and Homes for Children, organised by Lady Jopling and the Yorkshire support group