STUDENTS and teachers at Shebbear College are celebrating as the school has been awarded the prestigious Eco School Green Flag.

The Eco Schools programme is the largest sustainable schools programme in the world. Eco Schools in England is run by Keep Britain Tidy, and has more than 12,100 schools participating.

The school has been working hard to earn the flag, which is the highest Eco School award available.

Children had to demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of environmental issues, discussing them with the Eco School assessor.

Fifth Form student Ailis Prowse, member of the Eco Schools team, said: 'I was very proud when we found out that we had reached our goal of receiving a Green Flag Award, especially after the hard work everyone put in.

'I am a part of planning and doing assemblies, also I help make the school aware of how much water we use and how it's a valuable source. I am so excited about raising our Green Flag.'

Student Ryan Rothon said: 'I am very proud to say that I am part of the team that has won the Green Flag for Shebbear.

'Each and every one of us has put in a lot of effort and it is very rewarding to have achieved such a prestigious award. I hope we can achieve much more in the future.'