A SCHOOL choir was given the chance to meet Father Christmas as a thank you for their hard work and fundraising efforts.

The choir from Red Hall Primary School, in Darlington, was named the winners of the Darlington Carols for Kids event earlier this month after performing a carol written together.

As part of their prize the choir have been invited to perform at the Christmas lights switch on for Darlington next year.

But the choir were also able to celebrate this Christmas, by meeting Father Christmas in a specially-built Winter Wonderland at their school.

A school spokeswoman said everyone at Red Hall is very proud of what the children have achieved and that the children were looking forward to switching on the lights next year.

As well as their competition victory, the choir has taken part in a number of other charity events this half-term, including a performance at the Cornmill Centre in aid of St Teresa’s Hospice and at Asda, where they raised funds for the school.

The choir also took part in the community carol service at St Andrew’s Church, in Haughton, which was attended by their families.

The choir has also performed Christmas songs to the residents at Riverside care home.

School staff would like to thank the children for all their hard work, as well as the parents for their support.