PEOPLE are all too quick to dismiss the contribution of today's youth in society, thanks to a minority giving them a bad name.

In reality however, youngsters today are caring and thoughtful people who are keen to do their bit to support others during these difficult times.

That is why we want to highlight the extraordinary efforts children have gone to across mid Cheshire to help and raise money for our frontline heroes, key workers and the vulnerable in our communities.

Two Sandiway brothers were inspired by their NHS hero aunt to sell salt-dough rainbows outside their home.

Archie, 6, and Sammy Penney, 4, made the colourful creations to raise a smile and some cash for the Mid Cheshire Hospitals Charity, which supports staff, patients and families at Leighton Hospital and Victoria Infirmary.

Through their efforts, they were able to raise £300 for such a great cause.

Northwich Guardian:

Archie, 6, and Sammy Penney, 4, sold their salt-dough rainbows outside their Sandiway home to raise money for Mid Cheshire Hospitals Charity

Also supporting our healthcare heroes was Katie Hinkley and Erin Lancaster-Burton, who put on a social-distanced dance show for neighbours in Rudheath.

They were so moved by the bravery of NHS staff tackling coronavirus that they wanted to help, raising £85 for charity.

Katie’s Mum, Tracey, said: “The atmosphere was lovely, everyone was clapping and smiling.

“I feel extremely proud and very grateful to our lovely neighbours who helped."

In Winsford, one schoolboy encouraged the local community to support doctors and nurses by designing thank you posters.

Jack Buckley, seven, was inspired by his mum, Lou, who is a key worker in the healthcare sector, and wanted to show his appreciation for everything she and other frontline heroes are doing at present.

Davenham Primary School youngsters Chester, 6, and Rex Parry, 5, produced their own TV advert urging everyone to keep safe at home throughout the coronavirus pandemic.

The video shows the pair sing 'We’ve Got the Whole World in our Hands' while wearing Boris Johnson face masks and holding a cut-out globe, before breaking out of character to tell us to ‘stay safe – stay at home’.

Mum Kerry Parry told the Guardian: “Obviously they are both home from school so I’m trying to keep them entertained.

"They love it – but now they are asking when it will appear on TV.”

These are just a few examples of how everyone, young and old, in our communities are coming together, and it is efforts like these that make mid Cheshire a truly great place to be.