BARNOLDSWICK primary school children were paid a visit by their MP in recognition of their work to help save the environment.

Pendle MP Andrew Stephenson thanked the children of St Joseph's Catholic Primary School at a special assembly before presenting the school with its Eco-Schools Green Flag award.

The award is internationally recognised for excellence in environmental action and learning.

The school has worked hard over the last few years to meet the criteria to receive the award and was thrilled to learn that the assessment inspector had been very impressed, said headteacher Natalie Wood.

The school's Ecool group, led by teaching assistant, Louise Catlow, has been instrumental in driving forward the school's green credentials.

"The three main areas that they focused upon were: marine life and problems with plastic pollution; waste and recycling; and community projects which included both awareness of dementia and regular visits to our local care home, Cravenside in Barnoldswick," said Mrs Wood.

"The children became the first school children to be 'dementia friends' several years ago and are now members of the Dementia Action Alliance. Raising awareness and fundraising continues to be very important to them."

Mrs Wood said the award flag would soon be flown within the school grounds to inspire others to care for the community and environment, while at the same time celebrating the school's achievements so far.

"I am extremely proud of the children in school and thank the staff, especially Mrs Catlow, for working hard to ensure our children develop a good understanding of key issues current in our society and the wider world," she said.

"Mr Stephenson presented the award in an assembly and then congratulated our pupils on all they had achieved. He thanked them for their work and encouraged them to continue helping others and learning about key issues being discussed in society today."