Parkside Secondary School students have raised a total £400 for the poppy appeal.

Deputy head Michael Smith handed over the cheque to the Royal British Legion's George Metcalf last Thursday.

In return, Mr Metcalf, chairman of the Royal British Legion Bradford district group and the Keighley branch, gave a certificate to the Cullingworth school acknowledging five years of continued support.

The school's fundraising ideas this year included five remembrance themed assemblies and a non-uniform day when children paid £1 to wear what they liked. Head Dr Tony Rickwood said: "We get heavily involved with the poppy appeal every year.

"What's important is to bring awareness of the appeal, showing that it's not just about the two world wars but the present day.

"We also do trips to war memorials in France every few years.

"This brings home the true devastation of war, especially the sight of the rows and rows of headstones and crosses."

Money raised during the non-uniform day was also shared with Cancer Awareness.

n Parkside held its annual prize giving awards last Thursday.

Held at the Bankfield Hotel, Cottingley Bar, distinguished students and those who had made excellent progress were praised.

Around 250 parents and students attended the event, which was the first GCSE presentation since Parkside became a secondary school.

Head Tony Rickwood said: "It is for those pupils who have made real progress and is divided into academic or topic areas, as well as social and community awards."

The most distinguished student award went to Sam Priestly.

Trophies were sponsored by local businesses.