STUDENTS at a York school have been praised by a local care home after organising their first Senior Citizens Christmas Lunch.

Post-16 students at Archbishop Holgate’s School held the event to reach out to senior citizens in the community as part of their work towards the Archbishop of York’s Young Leaders Award.

“Following sherry or orange juice on arrival, entertainment was led by the schools’ Chamber Choir; with a fantastic rendition of Gaudete and a number of other Christmas pieces,” said lay chaplain Richard Nihill.

“This was followed by a scrumptious roast dinner with all the trimmings and a visit from Santa and his helpers bearing gifts.

“The event finished with young and old joining together to sing carols.

“Putting on an event like this develops and demonstrates a servant hearted leadership, a selflessness and a willingness to give to others.”

He said one guest had said “It’s amazing what they’ve done today. They’ve brought all these people together for a fantastic community event and the students have worked so hard," while another had emailed with the message: “Just to say that I really enjoyed the Christmas lunch and had a great time. Everything was superbly presented and the carol singing was wonderful.”

He said staff at a local care home, who brought residents to the event, had written to thank the school for the event, saying: “Our ladies thoroughly enjoyed themselves, your students are a credit to you.”

He said that the event was such a success that it would run again next year.