SCHOOLCHILDREN have launched a new initiative to help tackle loneliness and isolation.

Reception pupils at Pennington Primary C of E have been working on the Centre for Leadership performance initiative Bright Stars with Playdale Playgrounds to create their own social enterprise Penn Pals.

The Ulverston-based school is creating a space for grandparents and the elderly to socialise and take part in activities designed by the class to help support older members of the community as part of celebrations for King Charles III's coronation.

The children have designed their own logo which has been put on keyrings that they can sell at events. They were given a £50 start-up budget for their campaign.

"We are thrilled to launch the Penn Pals campaign with the Brightstar initiative," said school headteacher Helen Storey.

"Our young social entrepreneurs have worked hard to create a welcoming space for the older members of our community and we hope that this initiative will help combat loneliness and isolation among them.

"We are also grateful to our partners, the Centre of Leadership and Playdale Playgrounds, for their support in bringing this campaign to life."

The school will host a series of events with a new activity each week.