Pupils packed up food to help people struggling to feed their families this winter.

Children from Parkside Community School, in Aycliffe Road, Borehamwood, came to school wearing festive clothes this week to help collect groceries for the Borehamwood Foodbank.

Instead of a donation to school funds, pupils each brought in a donation of a tin or packet of food or toiletries to support those in need this Christmas.

Year 4 pupil Ben said: “We collected so much food. We took a whole van load with us. I think it was nice to give people food at this time of year.”

Headteacher Julie Muncey added: “We were overwhelmed with the generosity of our parents – there was an unbelievable amount of food donated. This reflects the real spirit of Christmas – giving to those who may be experiencing hardship or are less well off than themselves.”

The children were given a tour of the food bank and they were told about how the charity works.

Oliver, another Year 4 pupil, said: “This is what Christmas is about - looking out for each other and being kind.”