Wallingford School pupils are to teach their elders modern day skills such as sending text messages and using computers as part of a joint effort by the school, Age Concern and Oxfordshire County Council's social services department.

The so-called Mind, Body and Health sessions, believed to be the first in the county, will start on Friday, June 6, with 30 students putting the OAPs through their paces.

In turn, it is hoped the youngsters will learn about respect and trust from their elders and build friendships across the ages.

If the scheme proves successful, it could be rolled out elsewhere.

Caroline Walters, school community liaison officer, said: "The students leapt at the chance and are very enthusiastic about it.

"They are offering to teach people how to send text messages, how to use computers and how to use all the wonderful facilities we have at the school.

"We want the older members of the community to put aside their shyness and embrace these very generous young people.

"The possibilities are endless - we just need to know what people would like."