Primary school pupils have been making the most of the weather tending to their new fruit and vegetable garden.

The youngsters at Gillingham St Michael’s Primary School have been growing beetroot, carrots, strawberries and tomatoes, while also enjoying the garden’s quiet seating area and a dedicated spot for bees.

The garden was officially opened at the school’s fete on July 1 after a real team effort by staff, parents and local businesses.

Class teacher Gemma Harvey said: “Just before Easter the children in Years 3 and 4 were learning about plants. We lost our garden area two years ago to an extension at the school, so we had no where to do our science experiments.

“There was a derelict area at the side of the playground so the pupils sent letters to the headteacher and local businesses to ask for help to turn it into a garden.”

Over the Easter break staff and parents started work on the site, also giving up their evenings to the project after school.

And with donations from L P Pallett Quarry and Travis Perkins, along with help from parent and builder Daren Maeer, the garden soon blossomed.

Miss Harvey said: “The children love it. They are really keen to go outside and water it everyday.”