YOUNGSTERS from a Billingham school will be helping to spread an eco-friendly message after BP Cats sponsored a visit by an environment expert.

Phil Williams, of Plan-It Eco, returned to Teesside, after his thought-provoking workshop struck a chord with the children and staff at St John the Evangelist RC School, and staff from BP Cats at last year's event.

The former television presenter delivered the workshop, called the World Within Your Shoe, to year four and five pupils.

With the help of slides and music, the youngsters explored a range of issues, including recycling, the protection of wildlife and rainforests, as well as everyday objects that are taken for granted, such as shoes. Angela Hull, of St John's, was keen to be involved with the workshop for a second year, after last year's event triggered a number of initiatives that the children have continued both inside and outside the school.

She said: "Since the workshop last year we have definitely become more environmentally conscious. One of the projects we have begun is to recycle the masses of paper that are discarded within the school."

To tie in with the environment theme, the venue for this year's event was Nature's World in Middlesbrough.

During his trip to Teesside Phil Williams also spent a day with Dormanstown Primary School near Redcar, this visit was sponsored by BP Wilton.