A primary school has received a cash boost from Wessex Water to help create a wildlife area in its grounds.

The company awarded Staverton Primary School, near Trowbridge, a £150 grant, which will be used to clear out and re-stock the school pond as part of a wider project to create a nature haven.

Simon Phillips, from Wessex Water, presented the school with a cheque on Monday.

Lisa Read, teaching assistant to Years 5 and 6, said the project would benefit the whole community.

“By involving the children in the creation and maintenance of this area it will give them a sense of pride and achievement and encourage them to develop a lifelong respect for the environment,” she said.

The pond will create a specific habitat for insects, butterflies and pond life.

Work to develop other habitats on the site will also take place to encourage existing wildlife into the area and eventually several webcams will be added to allow the school to collect and view footage on its website.

The grant was given through the Watermark award scheme which provides funds for environmental projects within the Wessex Water area.

Last year pupils raised £159 by holding an Ugly Bug Ball, where they dressed as their favourite creatures and made bug captures while looking around the nature area.