HUNDREDS of Ripon Grammar School students are sending colourful messages of festive cheer to elderly residents in the city’s care homes.

Pupils from Year 7 and Year 8 hope to spread a little joy and laughter by creating hand-made cards and sharing poems, drawings, jokes, riddles and stories about their festive celebrations.

Arnav Kasireddy, 12, from Ripon, said he would be thinking of the elderly as he opens his Christmas presents.

He said: “They may not be able to see family and may be lonely. I hope my letter brings someone some happiness.”

Head of Year 7 Arwen Hoskins, who explained the students had been inspired by a national appeal, said: “We hope that by writing letters to residents in our local care homes, we can spread a little Christmas joy, and cheer up some residents by letting them know that our school community cares for them and is thinking about them at this difficult time.

“Ripon Grammar School is very proud to take part.” The Classrooms to Care Homes campaign is initiated by the Times Educational Supplement.