Pupils from St Albans School have hosted a Christmas party for 70 senior citizens.

The event took place last Wednesday (December 7) and featured afternoon tea and entertainment.

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The annual event takes place thanks to the school’s Partnership and Community Link Programme, which has been running since 2009.

The programme sees Sixth Formers volunteer for assisting elderly residents, and supporting charity shops.

Herts Advertiser: The school's Christmas party takes place annually.The school's Christmas party takes place annually. (Image: St Albans School)

This year's party was held in the school's Sixth Form Centre where sandwiches, cakes and drinks were enjoyed.

Christmas crackers were pulled, the school choir performed carols and younger pupils read festive poetry.

Ivy-Violet Pittam, 95, has been attending the Christmas party since 2009.

Herts Advertiser: Christmas crackers were pulled and carols were sung by the school's choir.Christmas crackers were pulled and carols were sung by the school's choir. (Image: St Albans School)

Regarding the event, she said: "The party always marks the beginning of the festive season.

"Everyone is jolly and friendly and it’s lovely to be with so many other people.

"My favourite part is the singing. I look forward to the party all year!”

Another of the school's Christmas party regulars, Betty Macey, added: "I always jump at the chance to come to the St Albans School party.

Herts Advertiser: Members of the school's Sixth Form volunteer their time for a number of causes.Members of the school's Sixth Form volunteer their time for a number of causes. (Image: St Albans School)

"The students are so helpful and attentive, serving delicious food and chatting with everyone.

"The school does such a great job of helping the community.”

St Albans School's headmaster Jonathan Gillespie spoke of the school's motto, and how this is reflected in student's actions at the event.

He commented: "Serving our community is something we take great pride in at St Albans School, so it was wonderful to see this in action last week.

"We encourage our pupils to live by the school motto ‘non nobis nati’ – ‘born not for ourselves’ and the Community Link programme really embodies that."

Lastly, Hillary Swain - a former member of staff at the school - brought members of a lunch club that she helps to run.

She said: "Thank you so much for the party. I know how much work goes into it.

"My little group absolutely loved it and said what a lovely occasion it was.

"They particularly commented on the food and the beautiful choir.

"A previous attendee at the party was Deryck, who was one of the oldest surviving alumni of the school.

"He sadly died earlier in the year but the group was thrilled that his grandson, Aidan, was in the choir and came to chat with them.”