YOUNGSTERS have been brightening up their lunchtimes by enjoying a special scrapyard challenge.

Pupils of all ages at Brinkley Grove Primary School in Colchester have been enjoying the new Scrap Store Play Pod, which is packed full of junk for them to play with.

All of the items have been specially checked to ensure their safety, and the store in the playground will be refreshed with new items every six weeks.

The scrap includes crutches, zimmer frames, cardboard tubes, old suitcases and dressing up items allowing youngsters’ imaginations to run riot. Deputy headteacher Bronya Patmore said staff had wanted to make lunchtimes more appealing for pupils.

She said: “It is using off-cuts of things which are safe and lets them use their imaginations and be creative. Ithas proved really popular.

“Beforehand there would be arguments over footballs and things but it has now stopped.

“The research shows there are less first aid instances because play is a lot more structured.

“It has also meant the younger children playing with the older ones - we were sceptical whether the Year 6s would be a little too cool for it but they have really embraced it as well.

“Our PTA, the Friends of Brinkley Grove have raised £3,000 to help pay for the costs which has been fantastic.”