PUPILS and staff at a Hartlepool school are celebrating after winning international recognition for their commitment to environmental issues.

St Helen's Primary School, on the Headland, has become the first in the town to scoop the highest possible accolade in a Europe-wide awards scheme.

It has won Green Flag status through the Eco-Schools programme, which is managed in the UK by Encams, formerly the Tidy Britain Group. It aims to promote environmental awareness in a way that links a range of curriculum subjects.

Team work has been the key to the success of the school during the past two years, with teachers, pupils, governors, parents, the caretaker, a police representative and the local lollipop lady getting involved.

Hilary Squire, the school's personal, social and health education co-ordinator, said: "I am absolutely thrilled to be the first school in the town to achieve Green Flag status. It has been a real team effort and I would like to thank everyone who played a part for their support and commitment."

The environmental work at the school has included planting more than 1,000 bulbs in the grounds, the creation of new seating areas and litter picks.