A GROUP of youngsters at a Hartlepool primary school have been rewarded after chalking up unblemished attendance records.

Greatham Church of England Primary School pupils, Abby Westmoreland, nine, Lisa Stonehouse, ten, David Murdoch, ten, and Kathryn Heslop, nine, received a certificate from the Local Education Authority (LEA).

The awards, presented by director of education at Hartlepool Borough Council, Jeremy Fitt, are given by the LEA to children who complete an academic year without taking any time off.

Two of the recipients, David Murdoch and Kathryn Heslop, achieved 100 per cent attendance for two years in a row.

Michael Ward, headteacher at the school said: "A 100 per cent attendance record is a tremendous achievement, and these youngsters are setting a great example."

The school also presents its own awards to pupils attending for complete terms, two full terms and a year, the latter earning them a gold award certificate and a £5 gift voucher. Weekly certificates are given to classes with 100 per cent attendance.

Mr Fitt said: "I would like to congratulate the youngsters on their excellent attendance."