STUDENTS at an Uxbridge school brought the spirit of Christmas to life with three acts of kindness to benefit the community.

Pupils at Park Academy donated a record 1,500 items – three times last year’s total - to a foodbank drive.

They also ensured that vulnerable youngsters are not forgotten by taking part in The Samaritan’s Purse annual Operation Christmas Child.

Almost 100 shoeboxes were filled with treats and gifts for children most in need.

Foodbank cartons and shoeboxes also contained handmade Christmas cards produced by pupils at the Park View Road school.

Ryan West, Coordinator of Modern Foreign Languages, instigated the collection for Yiewsley & West Drayton Foodbank.

Each year group assigned foodbank captains who encouraged and collected donations each morning.

Transition Lead Naomi Coppard co-ordinated the shoebox appeal, in which 85 were filled with toys, books, stationery and more.

Years 7 to 9 took part in a competition to design a card that Park Academy could give to the community. From 50 entries, three winners were selected.

Designs included a Christmas tree, a festive adaptation of Park Academy’s logo and a cosy fireplace.