Pupils have spread Christmas cheer to pensioners in Wythenshawe at a special festive event.

The event was hosted by Saint Paul’s Catholic High School pupils who greeted the guests as they arrived then kept them entertained throughout the afternoon. The event provides a valuable link with the older generation in the community.

As well as well as a hearty festive feast, there was a visit from Santa who had a gift for every guest. Pupils sang their favourite Christmas carols around the tree then the school and its guests enjoyed a raffle with wonderful food hampers as the special prizes.

The school received many warm words of thanks and appreciation from its guests, both on the day and in letters after the event.

In a letter to the school, one guest commented: “We all had a wonderful time! Much praise is due for everything, the organisation of it all, the lovely food, cards and gifts, the entertainment – but above all, the lovely caring and friendly atmosphere that surrounded us.”

“The elderly visitors were full of praise for the staff and pupils,” said Mrs Fiona Minshall, Head Teacher at Saint Paul’s. “Not only is the party great fun, but the event provides our pupils with an invaluable experience of volunteering, citizenship and socialising to which they responded with great enthusiasm.”

Mrs Minshall added: “The annual Christmas party is a special time for the pupils, teachers and members of the community who are able to share in this celebration which spans the generations in Wythenshawe.”