THE Bishop of Jarrow joined a school's Easter celebrations yesterday.

The Reverend Mark Bryant led an Easter assembly and judged a decorated egg competition at Chester-le- Street CE Junior School.

Later, the Bishop dropped in on a number of lessons to answer children's questions.

Joan Twomey, the school's headteacher, said: "This is the first time we can remember being at school during Holy Week. We thought we would have a real celebration following Easter and invite the Bishop to celebrate with us."

The Reverend Kevin Dunne, rector of St Mary's and St Cuthbert's Church and chairman of governors the school, was also present.

About 240 children, including some from neighbouring South Pelaw Infant School, and about 60 parents and governors, attended the assembly