YOUNGSTERS from the Isle of Wight took a trip to London to visit Chelsea Pensioners.

Children from Sandown Community Kids have been working on projects to commemorate the Second World War with the Royal Parks Guild and the Isle of Wight Community Rail Partnership (CRP).

The children were thrilled to be invited to London by Chelsea Pensioner Ray Pearceson.

It was at Ray’s special invitation after meeting the children at Brompton Cemetery last year where they helped sow thousands of seeds for wild flowers around the graves of the many Chelsea Pensioners who are buried there.

The group of 20 children including 14 primary and four secondary pupils, teachers and volunteers started the day with a special tour of the bridge of the Wightlink catamaran, courtesy of the captain.

Joining Ray at the Royal Hospital, was Isle of Wight Chelsea Pensioner Barrie Davey, who movingly spoke to the Community Kids.

He told them: "Your visit from the Isle of Wight has brought my home place back to me. You have made my day.”

The young people made presentations to the Chelsea Pensioners of framed letters from the Isle of Wight High Sheriff and Sandown Town Council, which thanked them for the community initiatives they have been involved in and the partners of the Isle of Wight Community Rail Partnership, who have always facilitated travel for the Community Kids and volunteers. These included Island Line, Wightlink and South Western Railway. The children also handed a framed school logo and Chelsea Pensioner logo which will go on display in the hospital.

Don't forget to like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.