TROUT that had been nurtured by Chilton Foliat pupils from eggs in a tank were released into the River Kennet on Friday.

Year 5 and 6 primary school children put on their wellies and waded into the River Kennet to set free the young trout that they have cared for since January, with the assistance of Action for the River Kennet.

Over the last two months or so, the 19 children have set up a tank in their classroom and have watched their brown trout eggs hatch and grow, whilst learning about the importance of chalk streams and a selection of freshwater invertebrates.

Teacher Pam Smart said: "The children had a fantastic time. The fact that they were there for the whole growing process was quite special. They tried to name them but it is very hard to know which one is which when they are that small.

"They did a really good job looking after them and it was a lovely movement to release them into the river. It was good fun but also a very interesting and worthwhile learning exercise.

"We would love to work with ARK again. They do such great work and we always learn a lot. There was talk that we may be able to work with eels which would be amazing and so interesting."

ARK project officer Anna Forbes added: "The teacher and her class have done an amazing job, they have really embraced looking after the trout.

"The children now know lots about brown trout and their life cycle and why it is important to be water efficient and not pollute our rivers."