BASSETT and Swindon schoolchildren helped raise hundreds for Prospect Hospice – while learning how to use chopsticks.

More than 200 youngsters from four different primary schools enjoyed the taste of Chinese cooking, as they discovered the traditions and history associated with the Chinese New Year.

Chefs from Royal Wootton Bassett restaurant Oriental Aroma laid on lunch for the pupils, while wholesalers Booker ensured that every child left with a goodie-bag packed with treats.

James Huynh, the restaurant’s owner, said it was the 11th year in a row that they had laid on the lunches.

“We invite local schools to bring children into the venue,” he said. “We serve them lunch and we talk to them about Chinese culture and Chinese New Year. We teach them how to fold paper napkins and how to use chopsticks.”

Children from Wootton Bassett Infants School, Brookfield Primary School and Broad Town Primary and Infants schools attended the lunches.

While the event is free, the restaurant asks that schools make a £5 donation per child to the Prospect Hospice.

James said: “Going back a few years, a family member was very well cared for in the hospice. I just thought it was the most meaningful charity locally to support.”

This month’s schools event has raised more than £1,100 for the hospice. And James estimates that he has raised £60,000 for charity through regular events since the restaurant opened – with the majority of the cash going to Prospect.