Primary school pupils have been handed awards by two Darlington football stars.

Neil Maddison and Akpo Sodje attended the presentation ceremony at Rise Carr Primary School, in Eldon Street, to reward pupils' efforts in sport and classwork.

The two footballers talked to children about playing for Darlington, and signed autographs afterwards.

The school was told just over a week ago it would close at the end of this academic year, and staff said the day had been a morale boost.

Venetia Shaw, deputy headteacher, said the children were delighted by the visit.

"The ceremony was a really good way to reward their achievements, and the players proved very popular," she said. "Until the end for us arrives, we will carry on as normal, we can't let anything slip, and everyone here is determined that we go out with a bang."