On Friday 28 September the new eco-zone at St James’s School in Clitheroe was officially opened. Guests included the Mayor of Clitheroe, Cllr Dave Berryman, Premiership footballer Brett Ormerod, and representatives from the board of governors, Clitheroe the Future, other Clitheroe primary schools, Johnson Matthey and the Wildlife Trust.
After looking at a display of pictures of the progress of the work, from when the land was just a derelict wilderness to the present, guests were invited to explore the eco-zone to the rear of the school. With Mearley Brook running down one side and a specially created wetland area, as well as a wide variety of trees and plants, the site will play host to many species of flora and fauna. There is also a range of ‘trim trail’ equipment alongside the path.
Headmaster Paul Adnitt thanked those who had contributed to the scheme. He explained future plans for the eco-zone, such as employing a ranger to manage it (funds permitting) and working with the community to create some small allotment plots. Guests were invited to scatter seeds around the area.
After the official opening, the guests returned to the school yard, where all the school pupils assembled and released balloons with packets of seeds attached.
