WARM-hearted youngsters are bringing some seasonal cheer to pensioners in their neighbourhood.

Earlier this year, about a dozen boys and girls aged eight to 13, who live in Easington Colliery, formed a group aimed at improving quality of life in the area.

With support from local police, the Colliery Crimebusters now meet on a regular basis to have fun and discuss ideas.

At one recent meeting, it was agreed to make up a number of goody bags to distribute to elderly residents living in the neighbourhood.

The packs mainly contain items based on a community safety theme, such as a diary, key fob, pens, pencils and fridge magnets bearing practical tips or messages.

The youngsters have also included a Christmas card from the Crimebusters, a personal attack alarm and a bag of sweets.

Thirty-six of the bags have been put together by members and they will be handed out today, beginning at the Leech Court complex.

The young people will be accompanied on their visits by parents and police community support officers.

Neighbourhood Watch liaison officer Anne Ward said: "The kids in the group are very aware of the fear of crime many people have, especially on these dark winter nights.''

She added: "The idea for the Christmas goody bags came from them. It is a good example of their efforts to bridge the gap between the generations and do something positive for the community."

She said: "The Colliery Crimebusters meetings not only keep the people off the streets one night a week but also give them a chance to learn various social and team-building skills.''