PUPILS swapped schoolbooks for statement sheets today as they arrived to find their classroom 'trashed' by Jack Frost.

Youngsters at St Joseph’s Primary School in Newton Aycliffe spent the morning investigating a 'crime scene' which saw two local Police officers attend.

Lisa Thompson, teacher of Class three, organised the event to encourage the pupils to write creatively.

“The children arrived to find snowy footprints, pencils on the floor, our Christmas tree knocked over and our mascot wrapped in tissue paper.” She said.

“Two of our community police officers came and helped the children investigate and they have produced some brilliant work.”

The pupils will now receive a letter from Jack Frost admitting to the crimes and apologising for his behaviour.

Jean Henderson, the school’s office manager, added: “It’s a fantastic way to get the children’s imaginations working. The police were excellent and we are so grateful for their support.”