STUDENTS from The Hereford Academy worked very hard recently to prepare 'goody bags' for the homeless. The Herefordshire Veterans Support Group hosted a breakfast on New Year's Day at Saxon Hall and gave out the bags to the homeless.

Mr Ottley-O'Connor, principal said: "The students have been totally committed to this project and have far exceeded expectations. Having the veterans talk at school assembly was an eye opener and it helped the students understand what it must be like to experience post traumatic stress disorder".

Charlotte Skeratt and Heather Morris said: "I felt very good about preparing the 'goody bags' as we felt we were helping people who have real problems. It is so rewarding to know that you are going to make someone happy and with it being a season of goodwill it is important to remember people in need. We hope that the hats, scarves and socks keep them nice and warm this winter."

The Hereford Veterans Support Group are extremely grateful to all the staff and pupils at the Hereford Academy for the massive amount of donations of goods needed for the group to realise their dream of providing the homeless people of Hereford with essential gift bags.

The kind generosity that has been shown and the quantity of the gifts has been outstanding.

George Mills vice chairman said: "It just goes to prove that the season of good will can span both all generations and social standing."

Chris administrator for the group said: "It was an absolute pleasure to be invited to talk to all the pupils at the Hereford Academy, and I would like to thank them for all their amazing support and dedication, you are all incredible."

Victoria Craig centre manager at Saxon Hall said: "It is a real honour to host the breakfast for the homeless at Saxon Hall, this is what it is all about reaching out to the community. Working in partnership with the Hereford Veterans Support Group and the Hereford Academy has been inspiring enabling Saxon Hall to become the hub in the community that the community deserves."