KEEN, green youngsters from Fairfield have received a pat on the back for their eco-friendly work in the community.

Staff and pupils at Fairfield First School, Stourbridge Road, received Eco-School status in recognition of efforts to recycle waste and improve their surroundings.

They have been awarded a Green Flag, which they received in an official ceremony last Friday.

Bromsgrove district councillor David Hancox (Con-Uffdown and Waseley) who attended, said: "They have done an excellent job and worked extremely hard in setting up a wide range of recycling facilities within their school, as well as working closely with the community to develop a number of environmental projects."

The award was presented by Environmental Campaigns (EMCAS), formerly the Tidy Britain Group.

The school worked closely with Bromsgrove District Council officers to achieve its status.

Cllr Hancox added: "The children worked for over a year on ideas, including improving the playground facilities, introducing recycling and composting, protecting wildlife school and keeping the area litter free."

The council's assistant environmental strategy officer, Richard Johnson added: "The flag will stay with the school for two years, after which it will be assessed to ensure it has kept up the good work."