AN island paradise has been created in the playground of an East Lancashire primary school.

Leaf Island provides pupils at Todmorden Road County Primary, Burnley, with an area for outdoor study and quiet play activities.

The area, designed by staff and year three and four pupils with Groundwork East Lancashire, features boat-shaped seating, willow-woven arches and fencing, murals and flower beds.

Volunteers and professionals worked together on the project, which was paid for by a number of fundraising events, donations from community organisations and sponsorship from Groundwork East Lancashire, Burnley Council and North West Water.

Headteacher Phillip Morton said: "We are delighted with the way it has turned out and very pleased that the children played such an active part in it."

Leaf Island is one of the latest entries in the Lancashire Evening Telegraph's Grimewatch Awards.

The awards recognise all kinds of environmental projects from recycling schemes to the redevelopment of waste land.

There are categories for individuals, schools, community groups and businesses.

So if you have an environmental scheme that deserves a mention, contact Grimewatch co-ordinator Jennie Kernot for an entry form and more details on 01254 264317 or 01254 678678 ext 244.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.