GIRLS at St Mary's Convent School collected their generous annual Harvest Festival haul in support of a city hostel.

The Mount Battenhall school, in Worcester, has donated fresh and canned food to charity each year as part of its celebration of the festival.

This year's junior school pupils donated more than ever to St Paul's Hostel, Tallow Hill.

"It was great that the girls brought so much because St Paul's had mentioned Harvest Festival offerings have gradually decreased over time," said the school's Elizabeth Marshall.

"However, the girls really got involved and seem to enjoy giving to charity, which is great. They decorated the boxes and baskets and made a real effort.

"The school also sponsors a Bolivian child and it all helps pupils realise how important it is to think of and help other people."