SCHOOLCHILDREN have been encouraged to think of homeless people at Christmas.

Pupils of Aire View Infant School, in Silsden, climbed into a record-breaking giant sleeping bag made by the Silsden-based manufacturer Snugpak.

The fully-functional sleeping bag, which stretches to 20 metres long, was rolled out in the hall and the whole school sat on it for an assembly.

During the assembly the children were told stories about being homeless.

Louise Heslop, the school’s parental involvement officer, said the giant sleeping bag highlighted the issue of homelessness throughout the year and in particular at Christmas time.

She said: “In connection with the local Inn Churches appeal the children and their families donated jumpers, coats, socks, hats, gloves as well as tins and packet foods. These were delivered to St Stephen’s Church, Steeton, and Keighley Salvation Army where they will be distributed to members of the local community.”

MORE EDUCATION STORIES