A number of students from Morant Bay and surrounding areas in St Thomas were the recipients of back-to-school items ahead of the new school term.

The initiative, which was spearheaded by international reggae artiste Tarrus Riley and Friends was held at the Morant Bay Park.

Children from various communities within the parish were entertained with various attractions including bounce-a-bout, refreshment and music.

In a release to the media, Riley pointed out that the initiative wasn't something that was planned, but more of a corporate responsibility to the community.

"This wasn't something that I had planned. It's something I did coming from my heart because I felt it was the right thing to do. We gave the children school supplies, provided some music for them to enjoy themselves, like a little fun day vibe. We did a very simple but important community effort," said Riley.

Among the entertainers who came out to support the venture were dancehall star Bugle, new sensation Vybrant, reggae singer Natty King, veteran reggae crooner Jimmy Riley, saxophonist giant Dean Fraser, and other artistes from the area.

Added Riley, "We had no sponsor for this initiative and we are not trying to make any money from it. All of us just pulled together and made it happen."

Riley resides in the parish of St Thomas.

The back-to-school initiative executed by Riley and friends is in its second year. This isn't the first venture that Riley has been part of that has targeted schoolchildren.

His annual Freedom Writers competition allows students to showcase their writing skills.

Before he became famous, Riley was instrumental in a talent show held in Leith Hall in St Thomas, which afforded exposure to up-and-coming talent from the parish.

Riley recently returned to the island after delivering knockout performances in Tobago, the Montreal International Reggae Festival in Canada, as well as at the Jamaica 50 celebrations in the UK.

The singer's annual free Christmas concert is expected to hbe held in December at the Emancipation Park in New Kingston.