SCHOOLCHILDREN from across Kidderminster were set the challenge of helping to save a fictional community from an environmental disaster.

Around 250 children, aged between nine and 11, from Lickhill Middle School, Windmill Middle School, St John's Middle School, Sion Hill Middle School and Sladen Middle School took part in an eco-challenge at Habberley Valley, Kiddermin-ster.

The aim of the event, on Wednesday, last week, was to encourage children to think about the environment in which they are living and the ways in which they can help protect it.

It was organised by Wyre Forest District Council and supported by the Worcestershire Energy Efficiency Advice Centre.

In the scenario, rubbish was building up, wildlife was disappearing and resources such as water and energy were being used too fast.

Schoolchildren had to solve different problems and there was a series of activities based on water, energy efficiency, recycling, bio-diversity and exercise and health.

For every task the children completed, they received a stone and if they collected enough, they completed the challenge.

Marcus Hart, Wyre Forest District Council's cabinet member for commercial services said: "It is very important to educate children at a young age about the environment and the simple steps such as recycling that they can take to help preserve it for future generations."

He added it was encouraging to see so many schools taking part in the event, which showed how environmental issues were being pushed up the curriculum.