PUPILS at Cutcombe First School will literally be flying the flag for all things green after gaining a coveted Green Flag award as part of the international Eco Schools scheme.

Work began on the award programme in spring 2009 with help and support from the Exmoor Eco-Schools Initiative.

Both pupils and staff had to show they had met a rigourous and lengthy set of eligibility criteria to be given the top accolade.

Members of the school's eco team gave a presentation to award assessors and took them on a guided tour to show them the different environmentally friendly schemes carried out at the school.

This included lowering and restoring the ceilings in the hall and both classrooms and adding insulation.

Energy efficient lighting was also installed, all thanks to a successful bid for funding from the Local Action for Rural Communities grant pot.

And as if that was not enough, the school also created a pond with the help of parent Rachael Abraham.

Confirming the award, the assessors said: "The dedication, enthusiasm and ownership of the Eco-Schools ethos by the eco team and eco school co-ordinator was very strong.

"There was lots of evidence of Eco-School ethos throughout the school.

"For a tiny, rural school they should be congratulated on what they have achieved so far, both the small everyday things and the bigger projects."