Generous students at an Egremont academy have donated over 500 gifts and cards to Age UK West Cumbria.

West Lakes Academy teacher Andrew Haslop organised the collection, which supports the charity with its national campaign to end loneliness among older people.

It is the fourth time students at the school have helped out.

They made Christmas cards, with handwritten messages inside, and donated and wrapped small gifts for elderly members of the community to open on Christmas Day.

Mr Haslop said: "I am amazed by the generosity and kindness of our students. They have shown yet again how much they care for the people in their local community.

"I am extremely grateful to everyone who contributed."

Students also visited an Age UK social group at Old Customs House, Whitehaven, where they chatted to members and played a Christmas quiz.

“Watching the different generations interact and tell stories was amazing to see," said Mr Haslop.

"Age UK staff commented on our students' brilliant behaviour and said that they were a credit to the academy."

This year the academy’s student choir will also visit two residential care homes to spread Christmas cheer through song.

The students will visit Castle Mount, in Egremont, and Wyndham Manor, in Cleator Moor, to sing carols and deliver mince pies.