YOUNG 'Venturists' are making a difference in their community.

The youngsters, from Riddlesden St Mary's Primary School, have carried out a range of projects.

Pupils from years three, four and six have been involved in the activities – from boosting people's wellbeing, to cutting CO2 emissions.

The initiative is part of the Keighley Social Enterprise Town campaign – a venture supported by Keighley Big Local with partners including Participate Projects, the Lions Den Men's Shed, Discover Tai Chi, Keighley Photo Hub and Future Transformation.

Shaun O'Hare, of Keighley Big Local, says: "In order to gain social enterprise status, a campaign must demonstrate higher levels of social enterprise activity and a commitment to supporting businesses that provide jobs and help regenerate communities and the environment.

"A big part of the campaign is about introducing young people to social enterprise models, motivating the next generation to find solutions to existing problems and creating positive outcomes for their community."

Keighley Big Local and Participate Projects funded the Venturists.

The youngsters' projects included Bee Kind – Saving the Bees. Two hundred packets of wildflower seeds were distributed and a beekeeper visited the school to talk about bees and the importance of protecting them. The school is now planning a wildflower garden.

A 'walk to school' day was held to encourage parents to leave their cars at home, and help reduce CO2 emissions. Stickers were awarded to those who participated.

The pupils decorated more than 40 cupcakes and presented them to a dementia centre in Keighley.

Family fun activities were also held. There was an hour-long rugby/fitness session with the Keighley Cougars Community Foundation. And a foundation workshop focusing on the impact of smoking on your health and wellbeing took place.

As part of a Be Friends scheme, the group created a video celebrating friendships, kindness and diversity across the school.

And in an effort to help the homeless and people in need, the children put together 40 packs of thermal socks and soup which will be donated to the Salvation Army.

Jill Taylor, from Participate Projects, said: "The Venturists initiative has been a huge success. The young people have created some wonderful youth social action projects that have instigated change in the community.

"A huge 'thank you' goes to Keighley Big Local ­– and to Give Bradford – for funding help, and to the Keighley Social Enterprise Town campaign for supporting the young people."