Students at the John Masefield High School in Ledbury were certainly thinking of others this Christmas, and in particular the area’s senior citizens.

The age gap was bridged and a new festive tradition was created, as young and old alike came together over seasonal fare and carols.

Working alongside Community Action Ledbury, the selfless teenagers decided to bring a slightly early festive treat to residents of Birchams Grange Residential Care Home at Eastnor, at the close of the school term.

Mark Hawksworth Head of sixth form said: “On Wednesday December 18, the six form students, and other students at John Masefield High School, gave the elderly residents of Ledbury an early Christmas present.

“Working alongside Community Action Ledbury (CAL) over thirty sixth form students and twenty students from lower school provided festive entertainment to members of both Birchams Grange Residential Care Home and CAL.

“The community project was the brainchild of CAL’s Jon Critoph and Sixth Former Vicki Merker who worked tirelessly to make the event happen.”

And the event was also a impressive feat of co-ordination and co-operation.

Mr Hawksworth added: “ Guests were chauffeured in on CAL’s minibuses and then provided with a sumptuous afternoon tea of home-made cakes and entertained with a mix of individual and small group songs and of course some sing along Christmas carols.

“ It was such a lovely way to end our term and start the festive celebrations. It shows what a positive contribution our students want to make and it’s a great example of how the community can come together to improve things.

“Both students and elderly got to interact in a way they might not do normally.”

And the event was so successful, it is very possible that an new annual tradition for Christmas has been established.

Mr Hawksworth said: “Many of the guests commented on how uplifting the afternoon had been and would we be doing it again next year!

“ Preparations are already underway!”