PUPILS have set up an enterprising food business as part of their studies.

Students from across a range of courses at Branksome School, in Darlington, have combined to set up the project.

Students taking construction and rural studies have built an allotment and beds to grow organic herbs and vegetables.

Business studies pupils have developed a business plan to sell the produce to the school's kitchen for use in meals as well as the local community.

And the school's home economics department has also bought the produce to use in lessons.

Pupils are looking to expand their project and plan to keep animals including rescued battery hens.

Environmental regeneration charity Groundwork and a project which works with schools on sustainable projects Clervaux Trust has helped the pupils.

Local resident Pauline Cole has also helped to tend the allotment, with young children from the area doing so in the holiday period.

Officers from Darlington Borough Council's recycling team have helped to build a compost heap and paper recycling team.

Councillor Jenny Chapman, cabinet member for children and young people, said: "This project is a great way for pupils from different courses to get outdoors, work together and develop many skills."