OKEHAMPTON Primary School will take part in a nationwide campaign to reduce their energy consumption.

'Switch Off Fortnight' has been organised by EDF Energy's schools programme 'the Pod' to encourage schools to reduce their energy consumption. So far, 81 schools in Devon have signed up for the campaign, which runs from Monday November 21 to December 4.

The scheme has been endorsed by cyclist and Olympic gold medallist Victoria Pendleton. She said: 'Encouraging children to think about the impact of their actions on the environment is really important. It's fantastic to see over 4,000 schools taking part in "Switch Off Fortnight" and I hope it will inspire other schools, pupils, teachers and parents to get involved with EDF Energy's schools programme the Pod.'

Children taking part will take an energy audit at the end of each lesson to measure the energy savings they make. Schools have been sent free campaign packs which include a tracking chart of savings, posters, stickers and badges. They can access lesson plans, games and activities online.

The school has been recognised for its environmental efforts, receiving a high commendation in the John Mejor Award in September. In April, the school was awarded with a prestigious Eco School green flag to recognise two years of hard work teaching pupils about environment issues and taking part in projects.

For more information on the scheme, visit http://www.jointhepod.org">www.jointhepod.org