SCHOOL children will be spreading festive cheer this December with a series of carol concerts to welcome passengers to Teesside Airport.

Pupils from North Ormesby Primary Academy in Middlesbrough were the first to kick off the run of events, with 29 children aged ten and 11 taking to the terminal to get people into the Christmas spirit.

The concert was timed to coincide with the arrival of the 10.05am flight from London Heathrow, welcoming people to the area with song, as well as entertaining airport staff and visitors.

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Paul Wilson, from the school, said: “It is a great way to start the month of December as the children get to perform to a live audience as well as help local charities.

"As important as it is to get into the festive spirit, it is also vital that we try to help those who may need some help in making this time of year that but more special."

A further six concerts will take place and run until December 16, giving youngster from all over the region a chance to show off their singing talents and help raise funds for the airport’s partner charities – Alice House Hospice, the Great North Air Ambulance and Middlesbrough Football Club’s MFC Foundation.

Donations can be made in person or via the airport’s JustGiving Page at justgiving.com/crowdfunding/faye-parry

Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen said: “I’m delighted the North Ormesby Academy choir took the time out to visit our new-look terminal to get everyone in the mood for Christmas. These pupils were the first of many to come who’ll continue to keep us all in the festive mood as we approach the big day.

“I’d like to thank them for their passionate performance and playing a part in helping us raise cash for three important local charities.

“In the run-up to Christmas it’s always worth remembering its real message, of giving and helping those less fortunate. Each of our partner charities do vital work across the region to improve - and even save - lives but they can only do that with your support. Our airport partnership is helping us get their messages out and fundraise, but we can all play our part in backing these good causes.”

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