Niamh Avart from Bearsden Primary School in East Dunbartonshire, Georgie Gilham from Kinmylies Primary School in Inverness and a Year 3 pupil from Calderwood Primary School in East Calder all took part in a competition organised by Robertson Homes, asking children to write letters to older people who may be feeling lonely this Christmas.

The project is part of Robertson Homes’ support for Age Scotland’s Friendship Line, which helps isolated people feel better by listening, offering support, and letting them know that someone cares.

Robertson Homes also made a contribution of £1,500 to support the work of Age Scotland and presented each winning student with a £50 prize voucher.

Sharon Spinelli, sales and marketing director at Robertson Homes, said: “Christmas can be a particularly difficult time for many of our older community and it was heart-warming to see how all the children who took on the writing challenge understood how people can feel spending the festive period alone.

“Their letters made it very clear that there are always people in the community who think about others and I am sure their stories will bring a smile to the faces of those who read them.

“As a responsible builder, we care about the communities in which we build and seeing the letters written by the children, it is clear they are a generation of thoughtful and caring young people.

“We hope their work will raise even more awareness of Age Scotland’s fantastic services which provide a lifeline to vulnerable people.”

Michelle Supple, Age Scotland’s interim chief executive, added: “Tens of thousands of older people in Scotland are very lonely at this time of year, especially those living alone or without friends and family close by.

“For those who find it difficult to tell loved ones how they are feeling, or who might not have anyone else to turn to, our Friendship Line can offer support, comfort and reassurance or even just a friendly chat, and our Comradeship Circles help ensure older veterans stay connected with their community through regular group calls. You can call us free on 0800 12 44 222.

“We’re so grateful to Robertson Homes for supporting our lifeline services and to everyone who has taken part. It’s a wonderful project and we know the letters and poems will help make Christmas brighter for the older people who receive them.”