CHILDREN from two primary schools have been finding out about volunteer emergency services.

Durham High School for Girls hosted the charitable service day for its junior pupils and children from St Oswald’s Primary School.

They met members of the Blood Bikes, Police Volunteers, Guide Dogs for the Blind, St John’s Ambulance and Mountain Rescue to learn about their work.

At the end of the day, the two schools presented each of the charities with a cheque for £475.

Pupils at the junior house of Durham High School for Girls had a sponsored walk, while St Oswald’s held a sponsored read and a day for children to take part in a series of physical challenges.

St Oswald’s headteacher Gillian Harrison said: “It was a fantastic event. The children were able to gain an understanding of the charitable services and the fact they rely on public support to continue.

“It was very informative and fun as well because they got to spend time in the ambulance and on the police bikes as well as meeting Jet and Ben (Durham Police dogs) and Holly the guide dog.”