‘Local hero’ is an overused term, but when it comes to tireless Otley fundraiser Mel Metcalfe we think it hits the nail on the head.

Last December Mel was hailed as “one very special lady” for her fantastic efforts to ensure all local kids who were stuck in hospital would get a Christmas gift – and she’s only gone and done it again.

Dozens of sackloads of presents are being delivered to young patients in hospices and hospitals across Leeds and further afield this week and next thanks to Mel’s determination – and that of her supporters – to make a difference.

And her Leeds Children’s Hospital Christmas Gift Appeal is only the latest fundraising success from the mum-of-three, following hot on the heels of her Little Angel Christmas Light Up and two-night Zombie Apocalypse Run.

In our eyes that makes her Wharfedale’s very own answer to Santa Claus and a fine example, at a time of year that is all too often swamped by commercialism instead of the spirit of giving, of generosity and kindness in action.

Table-topping testament to its teaching

Pupils and teachers at Tranmere Park school should be feeling very proud of themselves this week.

The school, in Guiseley, is ranked top in Yorkshire in the latest Key Stage 2 tables, after 100 per of pupils achieved the standard expected of them in reading, writing and maths.

The results are impressive enough for one year but incredibly it is the second year in a row that the school has achieved the 100 per cent rate.

Its success is testament not just to the current cohort of pupils, but also to the willingness to change an established pattern of teaching to allow for innovation.

Five years ago Tranmere Park took the decision to intervene earlier to help pupils who were struggling.

Whereas many schools provide booster sessions as the final year SATS approach, Tranmere Park now offers extra help much earlier to ensure pupils master the basics by the age of seven.

With two such successful years, there can be no doubt of the success of their scheme.