AYCLIFFE Village Primary School is celebrating after claiming the title of Sedgefield's Cleanest Primary School 2003.

The school was the first in Sedgefield borough to take part in a new council recycling scheme and has won itself a £2,000 grounds makeover and £400 cash. Pupils have taken part in several recycling projects in recent years, including collecting white paper for the Butterwick Hospice and are continuing their efforts.

When headteacher Jo Clarke heard of a new kerbside recycling initiative, she contacted Sedgefield Borough Council to make sure the school was included. The council responded by sending green boxes, for recycling waste paper, glass and cans, which will be collected on designated days.

Oliver Priestley-Leach, Sedgefield's waste management officer, visited the school to talk to pupils about the benefits of recycling.