CHILDREN planted hedgerows and trees outside their schools across Wirral as part of a major project aimed at tackling air pollution.

They have been working with environment charity Mersey Forest and Wirral Council as part of the Trees For Learning scheme.

Every year, Wirral Council Eco Schools hosts a climate challenge competition to generate ideas about how to tackle environmental problems.

Well Lane Primary's Eco Team, led by Mrs Wendy Hall and Mrs Helen Ormond and pupils, presented their idea to a judging panel and won the competition in June with their idea to improve air quality.

As a result, hedges are being planted at schools across the borough with help from Mersey Forest.

Head of Well Lane Primary School, Shirley Callaghan said: "I am so proud of all our staff, pupils and parents for taking part in this event. I even put on my wellies!

"Projects like these ignite interest in the environment for our pupils and are having such a positive impact on raising standards and aspirations".

Well Lane Pupils Bethan, Logan, Lacie and Ashlynne said: "Our theory was to clear the air by planting trees and using natural remedies so that the air quality is improved.

"We really enjoyed the day and we would like to thank everyone involved for working with us." 

Pupils Leighton and Carter added: "We were very excited about planting the trees but it was hard work digging those holes!"

Cllr Phillip Brightmore, Wirral cabinet member for environment said: "Pupils from Well Lane Primary and every other school involved in the hedge planting project should be very proud of all their hard work to keep Wirral's air cleaner.

"Air pollution is associated with a number of health problems and particularly affects vulnerable people in our society such as children and people with lung or heart conditions.

"We can all do more to reduce air pollution outside schools, such as walking children to school, taking the bus and not leaving car engines running while waiting to pick kids up from school." 

Mersey Forest funded the project through their Trees for Learning scheme and agreed to provide hedges, expert advice, support with planting the hedges and educational days to inspire pupils. The scheme aims to plant one million trees by 2020.

Trees for Learning project officer Steph Hepworth said: "The aim is to educate children about the value of trees and get them actively involved in planting woodlands, hedges and orchards in their school grounds or local community.

"Thanks to funding from DEFRA, we're working with schools throughout Merseyside and Cheshire and have planted almost 30,000 trees with children since November this year.

"Not only is tree planting a great learning experience for the children, they are also creating a lasting legacy for people and the environment."