Schoolkids got an end of term surprise when they were treated to a gig by Heather Small.

The M People singer asked pupils what they’d done that day to make themselves proud as she treated kids with a performance at a school in County Durham.

She performed hits including ‘Search for the Hero’, ‘Moving On Up’ and iconic track ‘Proud’.

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Heather said: “It was a joy to be here today in a place with happy children. Absolutely amazing.”

The gig at Seaham Trinity Primary School was organised by M People drummer Andrew Lovell, better known as Shovell, to thank the school where he has been working while training as a counsellor.

The Northern Echo: These kids could be so many people...These kids could be so many people... (Image: PR)

M People achieved success throughout the 90s with 10 UK top 10 singles.

Bringing the event to a close, Shovell said: “I want to thank the school for all the help, above and beyond, that the teachers and staff offer to pupils and families.

“And I want to give a heartfelt thank you to all of you guys for being here. You are all heroes.

“Every single one of us is amazing, in different ways. This school helps us find the bit of us that’s ok and that we can build on and helps us find our way.”

The pair performed alongside respected producer Anthony Gorry after hosting musical workshops.

The Northern Echo: Shovell thanked pupils and staff at the school where he has been working while training to be a counsellor.Shovell thanked pupils and staff at the school where he has been working while training to be a counsellor. (Image: PR)

Heather added: “It’s been quite emotional actually because it’s the first time me and Shovell have performed together in years.

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“Having him with me just brings this lovely energy.”

The event was put on by Andrew and Anthony’s company, AjoiA, hoping to show how music benefits wellbeing.

Andrew has spent the last 20 months on a placement in the school while training to be a psychotherapeutic counsellor with wellbeing charity Place2Be, which has a 14-year partnership with the school.