Pupils at Basildon's Moat House School have created a beautiful garden area with the help of BBC Essex and local businesses.

Children at the Church Road school have been working on the project to turn an old playground into a landscaped sitting area for some time.

On air - BBC Essex presenter Steve Scruton and gardener Ken Crowther chat to student Dean Richardson Picture: TERENCE BUNCH

Their efforts were given a helping hand when BBC Essex staged a live afternoon broadcast from the school with their gardening expert Ken Crowther on hand to pass on his wealth of knowledge.

Pupils were shown how to plant flowers, care for the shrubs and even install a water fountain.

Each of them also got the chance to talk live on air. Headteacher Mo Bowers was delighted and said: "The garden looks absolutely beautiful now and is a truly valuable addition to the school. The pupils seemed to get a great deal out of the day as well."

She also thanked Basildon's Alton Garden Centre and Rose and Mower Centre for donations.

Published Wednesday, June 4, 2003

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