YOUNGSTERS have been learning life-saving skills at school.

Eloise Shearer, a chief cardiac physiologist, taught pupils at Shotley Bridge Primary School CPR during a recent visit.

Ms Shearer, who has two children, Erin and Ewan at the school, held the sessions as part of Restart a Heart day.

The school is currently raising money to buy a defibrillator to install at the school so it be used if needed in the community and children have completed a sponsored walk through the village to collect £360.

She said: “These sessions have been arranged in order to raise awareness of the importance of early CPR and defibrillation.

“I have worked closely with Mr Bell the headteacher in co-ordinating the sessions and our fundraising efforts.”

Ms Shearer said 209 children were involved in the sessions to learn the necessary skills to help save a life.

She added: “The community of Shotley bridge has come together in efforts to raise funds for a defibrillator.

“Efforts began at the end of the summer term, and continued throughout the school holidays, raising awareness and receiving kind donations from local families, residents and businesses within the village.

“This is a great community effort.”