YOUNGSTERS from a Whitefield school ended the academic year on a high — by receiving a special award.

Staff from Mersey Drive Primary have been working with pupils on environmental issues to such an extent that Keep Britain Tidy has presented headteacher Ross Armitage with a Green Flag award.

To achieve green flag status, schools must show special consideration to green transport, waste disposal, water usage, litter prevention, school ground cleanliness, healthy living, energy use, biodiversity and global citizenship.

Mr Armitage said: "Our school is totally committed to recycling as much as we can, and this is tribute to all the efforts that our pupils have put in."

Pupils have been holding eco meetings to discuss how they can help the environment, increase recycling and reduce waste around school.

They also hold assemblies to tell their classmates of success stories and keep parents updated with a newsletter.

Keep Britain Tidy's programme delivery officer Karyn Fullerton said: "The school's lead teacher on this, Sara Jackson, is very enthusiastic and spent a lot of time getting to grips with the eco-schools programme with great results.

"The children showed much enthusiasm for the programme and were able to talk positively about their achievements.

"The committee pupils were knowledgeable about the key themes and have been able to work with other local schools to share their ideas on the programme. A big 'well done' to everyone involved."

Bury Council's environment representative, Cllr Tony Isherwood, said: "Many congratulations to the school and the pupils for achieving their third Green Flag.

"Their efforts are a shining example to others, and bode well for the future of our environment."