Pupils at a school in Bicester were rewarded with a visit from an ex-Royal gardener as part of a competition to win a greenhouse.

Students at Brookside Primary School were visited by Ian Powell, former head gardener at Windsor Castle and Kew Gardens.

He said: "Gardening is an activity that every child can participate in to make a positive difference to their health."

As well as having the greenhouse installed, young pupils were able to chat to Mr Powell about how healthy and sustainable food, which is grown in their greenhouse, can contribute to a balanced diet.

Taking note from Growing Schools, the government programme which aims to encourage children to spend more time outdoors, the children at the school in Bucknell Road, will be able to expand on their already thriving gardening club and grow produce all year round.

Brookside primary teacher James Watts said: "We want to give our pupils life experience and teaching which they would not otherwise experience. We realise the importance of practical work in science and the greenhouse will allow us to teach about habitats as well as healthy eating."

Brookside Primary School was one of five lucky winners chosen from more than 200 entries across the county who entered the Focus DIY competition.