A PRIMARY school has received a direct message from a pop star ahead of them returning to school.

Singer and ex X-Factor contestant Olly Murs made a video for students of South Otterington primary school.

“I know it’s been a really difficult couple of months, but listen it’s going to be fantastic going back to school because you get to see your friends again, you get to see your teachers again and you’ll be back to doing your school work.

“I’m sure it’s going to be really safe, and just make sure you keep washing your hands.

"Lots of love and kisses, see you soon.”

The video was the brainchild of Janice Metcalfe, a teaching assistant at the school and a distant relative of Olly’s.

“Since the beginning of lockdown the staff at the school have been creating regular videos where they compete in various virtual competitions, and encourage the children to get involved," said said Head Teacher Amanda Gledhill

"We've done a range of interactive videos such as pass the football video, pass the salt and pass the parcel and it's gone down really well as the children can take part from home.

"It's a great way of keeping the children entertained in what's been a very strange time for them, but it's also making sure they don’t forget what we look like.

"Staff have also really enjoyed taking part in them too, and parents can watch them on our website or Twitter page.

"We wanted to do something special to mark the last video before they returned back to school, and hopefully put their minds at rest of any worries they may have."

Miss Gledhill said that the children "absolutely loved" being surprised by Olly's message to them.

"It was a great idea from Ms Metcalfe, and we're really thankful to her for arranging it, as the message has brought a smile to staff and pupil's faces."