Schools across the area have held a series of events throughout December before the children leave for the festive break.

Richmond Hill School in Aspatria hosted a number Christmas events in the school this month. A Santa Dash was held in the local park, early years nativities and Christmas parties and Christmas dinners were held for all pupils and staff.

Pupils also got the chance to watch the pantomime in Carlisle’s Sands Centre, an Elf Hunt weekend for local families took place and a Christmas jumper day plus lots of Christmas crafts including decorate a door in a Christmas theme competition.

The head teacher at Richmond Hill, Mrs Rachel Blair, said: “We have tried really hard this year to get back to all our traditional Christmas celebrations at Richmond Hill. The children are at the heart of everything we do and we have tried to make it as special as possible whilst ensuring the children, staff and community stay safe. “

In Wigton, St. Cuthbert's has seen a rather busy month. Discussing the festivities, Headteacher Ann-Marie Handford shared: “We have held four class nativity productions, the children have enjoyed a movie night and a school Christmas party and our year 5 and 6 class have been carol singing at Loveday House and Inglewood Residential Care Home. Our school Mini Vinnies have also been spreading some Christmas cheer around Wigton by hiding handmade Christmas decorations for our community to find. Each decoration has a handwritten message tied to it.

“The mayor also visited school to present three children with runner-up prizes for a Christmas card competition.

“It has been very special to have a little normality this year for the children. I would like to thank all our parents for following our Covid guidance. This has meant we have been able to continue with some of our Christmas traditions.”