PUPILS at a Newton Aycliffe school held a charity fun day in memory of a teaching assistant who died this year.

Jenny Wall started working at Woodham Burn Junior School on a voluntary basis, before becoming a teaching assistant.

She continued as a volunteer at school even after she lost her job.

Headteacher Martin Bennett said: "She showed a very strong commitment to the school and loved coming here.

"She also enjoyed being with the children and they really liked her. We all miss her."

Teachers Joanne Taylor and Jean Cairns organised a series of games in the school yard, which took place all day.

A copper trail competition was held, where each class had to bring in coins to see which could make the longest line. Class Three were the winners.

Pupils and staff paid £1 to dress up for the day, cakes that were baked by parents were on sale, and there was a balloon release with a prize for the balloon which makes the furthest distance.

Hundreds of pounds was raised for Celebration of Life After Cancer, which was Mrs Wall's favourite charity.

Teacher Kathy Legge said: "It was a wonderful day. Staff dressed up in ridiculous outfits, mostly as schoolgirls, and all the children wore brightly coloured clothes or fancy dress.

"Jenny was an inspiration to us all and this event has been a huge success."