EFFORTS to improve a school's grounds were given a boost yesterday with a cash donation from a supermarket.

Chilton Primary School has created a garden in a courtyard area to make playtime more fun for pupils.

It will be used to help them learn about a number of subjects.

Yesterday, staff and pupils celebrated being given £500 by Asda supermarket in Bishop Auckland towards the redevelopment plans.

Staff from the store have also pledged their time to help children design, build and plant the site as part of its Get Involved scheme.

The school is working with Creative Partnerships, an initiative by the Arts Council England to create stimulating school environments.

Plans include an area to help maths studies and a sensory garden, vegetable, plant and herb-growing areas, mini beast homes and outdoor science investigation areas to support the science curriculum.

Headteacher Dave Wallace said: "We really appreciate all the support the school gets from local people and businesses. This £500 donation is the biggest we've ever had, so will make a real difference to our plans. Improving our outside space will give children a better environment for their leisure time and will be used to support the school curriculum."

Other donations include £100 of gardening equipment from B&Q, and raffle prizes from Newcastle, Middlesbrough and Sunderland football clubs and local firms.

The school will also hold a race night at The Ash Tree pub, in Spennymoor, on April 8.