THOUSANDS of miles away from the shattered streets of New York, the horrific events of September 11 have taught primary school pupils a lesson in life they will never forget.

Dramatic television pictures of victims being rescued from the Twin Towers' wreckage, brought home to children in St John's Chapel, Weardale, the contribution made by emergency services to people's lives.

Fundraising group the Friends of the School joined forces with governors to celebrate their efforts and those of other services who wear a uniform.

With military precision they got together police, fire and ambulance teams, Teesdale and Weardale fell rescuers, RAF and Royal Marine personnel and guardsmen from Catterick Garrison led by Sgt DD Johnston, of the 1st Battalion Irish Guards.

James McGowan, a former Irish Guards piper who now serves with North Yorkshire police, brought together former colleagues for the celebration, which attracted more than 400 visitors.

His daughter, Molly, is a pupil at St John's Chapel.

He said: "It was a tremendous success and raised £1,121 for the school. It took many months of planning, but it was worthwhile."

School governors' chairman Mark Oliphant said: "The events of September 11 brought home to us all how important the uniformed services are.

"The day helped children understand and appreciate what they do for us every day."