Schoolchildren and pensioners become pen pals and share heartwarming stories

A group of school children and care home residents in Cannock Chase have become friends - even though they've never met.

It is thanks to 'The Hello Book' that the school provides to the care home, where pupils write to elderly people telling them about their lives and even exchange games.

It is filled by pupils at Poppyfield Primary School and then handed to the residents at Littleton Lodge Care Home and aims to build a connection between the older and younger generations - after the care home was built opposite the school earlier this year.

But with students unable to meet their new neighbours face to face, they put together the book - filled with their photos, drawings, likes and dislikes.

The stories bring back memories for many of the residents in the home.

"It gives us a lot of pleasure to be in touch with them and talk to them about things and what they like - very often it reminds us of things we would have done in our own childhoods as well," said Audrey Allsopp.

And it's a rewarding experience for the youngsters, who take a lot from writing to their senior friends.

"They've absolutely loved doing it - they like making the link and thinking they can have an impact on an older member of society and their life," explained headteacher Rebecca  Scordis.

It's aimed at building a connection between the older and younger generations - after the care home was built opposite the school earlier this year.

But with students unable to meet their new neighbours face to face, they put together the book - filled with their photos, drawings, likes and dislikes.