SCHOOL children are on a mission to make the festive season that little bit brighter for residents across Bury.

Broad Oak Sports College has been spreading Christmas cheer by distributing hampers, carol singing and helping shoppers to pack their bags.

Year 7 pupils have been busy putting together dozens of Christmas hampers for patients at Bury Hospice - the College's chosen charity of the year.

On Tuesday, they made a special visit to the hospice to hand out the gifts. The children and school choir also performed a special 45-minute carol concert for the patients and staff.

Headteacher Paul Greenhalgh said: "I am very proud of our staff and students, and the work they are doing in our local community.

"The children learn the value of teamwork and in giving something back to the community in which they live. In addition, they begin to understand the importance of community spirit and in helping those in need."

The initiative was part of the school's Character Education programme, which aims to help pupils develop life skills such as leadership, organisation, resilience and communication.

Pupils in Years 8 to 11 have also been getting involved in various fundraising activities.

They undertook a food collection at Tesco to support Fareshare's giving to vulnerable people, including refugees, the homeless and victims of domestic abuse.

An entire trolley of food items was distributed to families across Bury.

Progress Manager Lynda Jones said: "We want to build on our community relationships through these initiatives.

“It is also about showing our pupils that there are a lot of disadvantaged children out there, and providing opportunities for them to help others."