AN environmental project, in which young students have enjoyed a leading role, has been officially unveiled at a Barry school.

The project at St Richard Gwyn Roman Catholic High at Coldbrook is the final element of a 'Safe Routes to School' scheme. Covering an area leading from the school to a subway under the Barry Docks link road, it incorporates wild flower and turf areas, a topsoil planting bed and field maple hedge. The wild flower area contains some 22 different species.

The overall scheme has been implemented by the Vale of Glamorgan Council using a Welsh Assembly Government grant.

Support for the environmental phase has come from Bridgend-based LGA, who have carried out the improvement works in Holton Road and who contributed labour and materials free of charge, and B&Q at Culverhouse Cross who donated tools.

Teacher Bev Lennon said: "The work is helping pupils fulfil the environmental section of Asdan (Award Scheme Development and Accreditation Network) which is similar to the Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme. As part of Asdan, the youngsters are also looking after the footpath adjacent to the school through the Valeways Adopt a Footpath scheme."

Also involved in the current project are pupils on a two-year life skills course, while Years 7-10 youngsters have helped with planting and maintaining the area through St Richard Gwyn's Eco School activities.

Senior road safety officer Mike Dacey said: "It is great to see how committed the pupils are to this project. It has made a really great difference to the area around the school."

The overall project, the first part of which was unveiled last year, has also included the development of a separate entrance into the school grounds for walkers and cyclists, providing direct access to two new bicycle stands, a new pedestrian crossing, the introduction of a 20mph zone, the refurbishment of the subway including the provision of new lights and CCTV.