A SCHOOL is trying to gather together its own 'Ground Force' team to help turn a neglected patch of land into a tranquil area of greenery.

The Hermitage in Chester-le-Street, is currently working on a number of initiatives designed to open the school up to the community for longer opening hours.

One way they hope to do this is by turning a quadrangle in the centre of the school into a garden, where students can relax in their breaks and community groups can hold outdoor events.

Staff member Roseann Szomoru said: "We're hoping to turn it into a chillout place for break-times and lunch-times and after school hours and at weekends and holidays, we can open it up to the community.

"It may be they would want to use it for a steel band concert or somewhere where mothers can push their prams. Members of the school council are looking at designing and carrying out the work, but they haven't got the expertise to go ahead.

"We would like to have the community input, but equally we're looking for any green-fingered people out there with a little bit of time to spare."

Anybody interested can attend a meeting at the school next week, at 4pm on Thursday June 19 or contact Roseann on (0191) 389 3388.