There was cake, coffee, tea and treats as a party got underway in Brampton.

William Howard School organised the event, one of two held every year for pensioners in the town.

More than 110 members of the community were treated by year nine pupils who spent hours baking and preparing for their arrival.

They also heard performances from year eight and 10 students.

What started out as a small get-together at Brampton Community Centre about nine years ago has become a highlight for pensioners, who return year on year because of what the young people have to offer.

Carole and Peter Wright, both 74, of St Martin’s, go every time.

“We know more or less everybody but there’s a few new faces this time and the children are different,” said Carole.

“We just love to watch the children and listen to them.”

Peter added: “It’s good for us and the children.”

Christine Kearse (CORR) , 70, of Ridge View, was at the party for her third time.

She also enjoys seeing what the children do.

“The food they produce is lovely and it’s nice to be entertained by them because over time you can see how they progress,” she said.

“It’s nice that the school’s involved in the community this way and for people to feel the school is engaged with the wider community of Brampton.”

Pupils took care of everything from the entertainment to the food and waiting on their guests.

Houghton Hall donated artificial flowers, while students arranged the table decorations and bunting to transform their school hall into a party venue.

My Favourite Things from The Sound of Music , Sam Smith’s Writing’s On The Wall from the Bond film Spectre and wartime classic A Nightingale Sang In Berkeley Square were among the songs showcased. Greeting the guests was 14-year-old Rachel Harmer.

She said: “It’s nice to have some time seeing other people rather than just your friends and people who are your age.”

Niamh Bones, 13, made jam and strawberry and cream scones which went down a treat.

“It took us two hours to cook them and to plate them all up it took another hour,” she said. “It’s nice serving because you feel like you’re doing something to make people happy.”

This was the last time the party will be co-ordinated by Sandra Robinson, director of learning for years nine and 10, who is due to retire after 34 years teaching – 13 of those at William Howard – at the end of term, though she hopes they will continue.

“It’s too good an experience not to,” she said. “The older people absolutely love it and our students shine, so I’m sure somebody else will pick up the mantle.”

Mrs Robinson works with Sue Fullelove from the music department and Penny Yates, from catering,.

The parties are funded through a charities morning at Christmas.