Urchfont Primary School has long had strong links with the surrounding community.

The headteacher, Alun Richards, who took over last September, is keen to continue the long tradition, especially as Urchfont is renowned as being particularly eco-friendly.

The school is building an eco-garden in memory of longtime governor Colin Watts, who lost his battle against cancer in August 2008.

Wiltshire Wildlife Trust has helped plant willow hedging and there has been an enormous input from the entire community.

Mr Richards said: “We sent a letter to parents asking what they’d like to see in the garden and I can’t believe the feedback we’ve had.

“We now have a very clear picture of what the garden will look like, with vegetable plots and a sensory garden.

“We have had tremendous help from the Friends of Oakfrith Wood, who are providing us with wood, and from the allotment holders who advise what vegetables to plant and when to plant them.”

Mr Watts’ widow, Pauline, has agreed to open the garden when it is complete.

Urchfont School Parents’ Association is helping finance the garden.

The school is also bidding for eco-school status and Urchfont Sustainable Communities Group has offered to help the school to eco-map the grounds.

Mr Richards said: “We are trying to find ways to reduce our carbon footprint by reducing our use of water and electricity.

“We have bronze status at the moment but we are hoping the eco-garden will bring us up to silver.”

Mr Richards is also keen on sport and is at the forefront of encouraging children to take part in tag rugby, cricket and hockey.

Pictures by Paull Morris