PLANS to create a garden for schoolchildren are blossoming thanks to a £500 cash boost.

Newker Primary School, in Chester-le-Street, has been awarded a grant from the North Eastern and Cumbrian Co-op's community dividend fund to design and build a garden for early years pupils.

The money will be used to buy stepping stones, seating and a variety of plants that will provide a multi-sensory and educational experience for the youngsters.

The school has 170 foundation stage pupils, including special needs children, aged three to five.

They will work with a professional designer to create the garden, which will include a vegetable plot, herb garden and willow screen.

Wildlife areas will be incorporated to attract birds and animals and there will also be a small pond.