BIRDS, bats and bees in two West Devon villages have received a boost, following a special project carried out by schoolchildren.

Pupils from Mary Tavy and Brentor Primary School worked with children from Lydford School at a community bird, bat and bee box making day held at Coronation Hall in Mary Tavy.

The event was organised by Rob Taylor from Dartmoor National Park. Volunteers from the park and other organisations helped the children and members of the local community who joined in.

The children made a bird box each to take home to encourage birds to nest in their gardens. Bat and bee boxes were also made that could be put up in the school grounds.

Nicky Pratten, headteacher at Mary Tavy and Brentor School, said: 'The children and parent helpers thoroughly enjoyed the day.

'Besides learning technical skills, they also learnt more about conservation and looking after wildlife and their environment.'

Pictured are class 3 pupils from Mary Tavy and Brentor Primary with their finished bird boxes.