Backwell police officers are bringing the park to life for pupils from a local junior school today.

PC Greig Difford and PCSO Andy Gattenby will lead a Park Life session for 56 Year Five pupils at St Andrew's Junior School.

The children will learn how to plant bulbs and maintain the shrubs, and have a lesson on the 17 acres of park in Backwell and the different animals, birds and plants that live there.

The scheme is run on an annual basis, and it is hoped that it encourages the children to play an ongoing part in the running and upkeep of the playing fields and park area.

Michael Pratt, chairman of the Backwell Playing Fields, said: "The nature and care lessons are part of our community effort to create respect for what we have. To see 56 children enjoying doing their bit for nature is always a pleasant sight."

PC Grieg Difford added: "The park is a fantastic space for the residents of Backwell, but in the past there have been some problems with vandalism. By encouraging the children to get involved in the care of the park, we hope that the younger generations will look after the equipment."