A SCHOOL has been presented with a plaque to mark its support for charity.

Willow Burn Hospice, based at Maiden Law near Lanchester, has presented the plaque to North Durham Academy in Stanley for its help in raising much-needed funds.

Each year, students at the school pick a charity to support over the academic year. Over the last three years, staff and students have raised £22,000 for causes including the Teenage Cancer Trust and Help For Heroes.

This year, the school is supporting Willow Burn and have organised raffles, cake sales and non-uniform days for the charity, raising £4,000 since September. Later this year, a team of staff members will take part in the Great North Run for the hospice.

To thank the school for their efforts, Willow Burn presented a plaque to academy principal David Thornton, who in turn presented it to the school’s Student Council.

Mr Thornton said “I’m incredibly proud of our students and how much money they have raised for Willow Burn Hospice.

“I would also like to thanks all the parents and carers for their support.”