CARING for the environment helped youngsters scoop a £1,000 prize for their energy efficiency efforts.

The Allertonshire School, in Northallerton, was one of more than 15,000 schools across Britain to take part in this year's British Gas 'Think Energy' programme and is one of 10 prize-winning schools.

The award-winning programme was designed to encourage young people to consider the environmental consequences of wasting energy.

It teaches children how simple efficiency measures that they make around the home can make a huge difference to the world they live in.

The £1,000 windfall was presented by the company's community energy advisor, Karen Edwards, herself a former pupil of the school and making her first return visit in more than 25 years.

"My mum and dad still live in Northallerton and I've always had fond memories of Allertonshire School," she said.

"Think Energy has been such a great success in over 15,000 classrooms across Britain and it was a particular honour to come back and present Allertonshire School with their well-deserved prize."

Allertonshire science teacher Jean Temple said: "This was an excellent way for pupils to learn how saving energy is good for the planet and it has also helped remind parents how to do their bit for the environment.

"The prize is a tremendous boost for the school."