GREEN-fingered school children have planted poppy seeds to mark the 100th Anniversary of the First World War.

Five schools in and around Chester-le-Street planted seeds as part of a joint initiative by local housing provider Cestria Community Housing, Durham County Council’s Civic Pride Team and the Royal British Legion.

The aim is to promote flower growth in the area and educate pupils about the First World War. 

Michael Hall, Grounds Maintenance Supervisor from Cestria Community Housing, said: “We are helping the British Legion promote and educate the children about World War One as well as bringing colour into our communities."

Rachel Jobson, Royal British Legion Community Fundraiser, said: “As the poppy is the nation’s symbol of remembrance and the emblem of our charity we are delighted that Durham County Council and Cestria have chosen to highlight the work of our charity in this special commemorative year. 

“Our work with the armed forces past and present and their families is just as relevant today as it was when we first set up in the aftermath of World War One.”

Cestria Community Housing has been working on a wild flower project for a couple of years, transforming public spaces around Chester-le–Street.

The schools involved were Newker Primary, Woodlea Primary, Nettlesworth Primary, Chester-le-Street Church Of England Junior and Sacriston Junior.

Council Civic Pride Officer Amy Hartnell said: “We have all come together to help a project that is beneficial to the public and the schools, allowing Cestria to grow wild flowers to beautify areas.”