Corby academy's Christmas jumper day boost for food bank

Instead of bringing in cash in return for seasonal mufti, students were asked to donate to the St Peter’s and St Andrew’s Church food bank.

The collection was organised by teacher Selina Moore as it is a cause close to her heart.

She said: "I am so overwhelmed by the generosity of the students. We took a couple of minibus loads and also some cars across to deliver the items.

"As well as essentials like food and toiletries there are some really thoughtful treats as well like chocolates, which everyone loves at Christmas.

"We had a tour of the food bank at the church. Their organisation was amazing. They were so grateful and sent a huge thank you to all those who donated.

‘It is heartbreaking to think that people in our community are having to rely on food banks so anything we can do to help, particularly at this time of year, will be well received.

"According to End Child Poverty, which is made up of charities, welfare organisations and others, child poverty in Corby is calculated as 26.4 per cent which is a staggering statistic."

The items will be given to families in need over the festive period.

Principal Pete Kirkbride said: "I am so proud of Selina and our students who have really stepped up and donated so many items which will make a difference to so many households in our community this Christmas.

"It is important that we acknowledge and help those in difficulty and Brooke Weston Academy has really thrown itself behind this initiative."