ARTISTIC pupils at a Hartford primary school have been busy designing their new outdoor play area.

The youngsters at Hartford Manor Primary are looking forward to seeing the fruits of their labour as the school's grounds begin to take shape.

Fund-raisers have managed to raise a total of £6,000 from two summer fairs to improve the play environment, which consists of two concrete playgrounds and an area of grass.

Water features, particularly ponds, were a common idea in the children's designs but due to safety aspects these will not form part of the play area.

Youngsters also wanted to see horseshoe benches where they can sit and talk to friends and also a friendship bench where pupils can go if they don't have anyone to play with. Anyone using the friendship bench will then be invited to play with the other children.

Headteacher Hannah Madeley said: "The provided environment has long been a concern to the school. It is in stark contrast to the environment within the school, which is bright and inviting and enhanced by displays of high quality work."

She added: "We see this as a great opportunity to include the whole school community in a project that will benefit everyone, although I am sure that it will involve lots of us getting our hands dirty. It will be wonderful to see the difference that it will make to playtimes."

Work is expected to start on the five-year project after Easter with planting boxes and a gazebo being first on the list.

There are also plans to include an outdoor classroom for use during the summer term and quiet, shaded areas where youngsters can relax during playtimes.

A committee of teachers, parents and governors will be putting the finishing touches to the plans later this week.