A NEW wooden totem pole, which was hand crafted by a expert chainsaw artist, sits pride of place in the grounds of Redland School.

The Chippenham school has been encouraging its pupils to explore the great outdoors in recent weeks, and Rob Beckinsale, who created his work of art on Monday, aims to inspire the youngsters.

"Redland School community have been working hard to engage children in learning outdoors, and making the spaces that we have around school more inviting," Katharine Thomson, outdoor learning co-ordinator, said.

"Part of this project has involved the removal of some trees in order to develop unused spaces and subsequently finding ways to invigorate them to inspire the children.

"The carving of this tree, by chainsaw artist Rob Beckinsale, was an exciting event this week. Rob's creativity has amazed adults and children alike."

Pupils have also been busy planting three times as many trees that were lost on the site, to create a new orchard funded by Borough Lands.

"The removal of a small number of trees has been balanced by the planting of a new school orchard," Ms Thomson added.

"Each class now has responsibility for caring for a fruit or nut tree, ensuring that any produce is used and enjoyed by the school community.