Young people took part in a day of dancing, poetry and singing to celebrate the work of The Children's Society.

The charity invited children from six schools to Leicester Cathedral for its Festival of Childhood yesterday.

It was also a chance to say farewell to the Rt Rev Tim Stephens, Bishop of Leicester.

He stood down from the charity's board of trustees after 10 years, the last six of which he had served as its chairman.

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His hand-over of the role to the Rt Rev Tim Thornton, Bishop of Truro, during a short afternoon service, was accompanied by children lighting dozens of sparklers.

The festival was opened by Leicester author Bali Rai and activities were organised by the city's Stagecoach drama group.

Teri-Anne Moore, 11, from Bushloe High School, Wigston, said: "We were representing Leicester and the celebration of the bishop as he is stepping down after 10 years."

Abby Sharpe, 13, from Abington High School, Wigston, said "We did a play called Decade as we felt it was appropriate for the bishop."

Children also presented Bishop Tim with portraits they had painted of him.

Bob Reitemeier, chief executive of The Children's Society, said: "The children performing in the festival were showing what they think is important in their childhood.

"It was one way of thanking Tim Stevens, the bishop, for his time as chair of our board of trustees."

The day concluded with an evensong service, followed by Bishop Tim delivering the charity's annual Edward Rudolf lecture.

Bishop Tim said: "I'm extremely proud to have chaired the board of trustees for the Children's Society for the last six years.

"As I step down from this role, I am confident the charity will continue to improve the lives of thousands of young people."

He added: "I have learned a great deal and received many challenges to my own Christian journey."