A GROUP of youngsters' green idea is beginning to take root.

The pupils at Owton Manor Primary School, Hartlepool, have been working with artist Phil Bradley to create a tunnel and maze in the school grounds by weaving together willow sticks.

The sticks, which have been planted in the ground, will soon take root and sprout leaves, turning their creation into a living sculpture.

The maze will bring extra interest to playtimes and is one of several improvements being carried out at the school.

The work has been funded under the Learning Through Landscapes project run by the Owton Rossmere Single Regeneration Budget Part-nership.

Learning Through Land-scapes encourages children to become involved in projects to enhance their school grounds. This in turn gives them a greater sense of pride in their school and encourages them to take care of the environment.

Marney Harris, Learning Through Landscapes officer, said: "The youngsters have really been giving the project 110 per cent and the tunnel and maze will give a lot of pleasure not only to them, but to the many pupils who come after them."