A PRIMARY school teacher has been ordained to the priesthood - and one of her first missions is to inspire children into donating their pre-loved teddy bears to refugee children.

Reverend Danie (correct) Lindley of the Chester-le-Street Church of England Primary School decided to get pupils involved in Project Paddington, developed in response to the growing humanitarian crisis among refugees and displaced children.

The mother-of-two, who was ordained at Durham Cathedral and serves as curate at the town's St Mary and St Cuthbert Church, said: “We felt this was something that would help the children connect with what is going on the in the world.

“I contacted our headteacher, Jane Proud, who was fully behind the idea and spoke to other members of the church who have had collections the last couple of Sundays.”

She added: “Children are seeing images that are very upsetting and some of the children have come in upset - so this was a way to show them that they could make a difference.”

All the children have been sponsored and have written an individual message to the recipients, with up to 360 soft toys expected to be donated by the school.

Charley Vest, five, wrote: “I love hugs, hold me tight and keep me safe. Thank you.”

Oscar Finlay, also five, said: “I hope you find a safe and happy place to live soon."

Six-year-old Louise Briscoe wrote: “Please look after Ted and Ted will look after you."

And Lilly Dawson, 10, who donated the teddy she has had since she was born, said on her note: “Brucey will give you a hug every day, I hope that he makes everything feel ok.”