William Gilpin and Hounsdown schools win £1,000 each to create environmental projects thanks to New Milton Sand and Ballast working with Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust

TWO local schools have been awarded £1,000 each to run an environmental project which will promote sustainability and eco consciousness among pupils.

Builder’s merchants New Milton Sand and Ballast, in partnership with Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust, chose William Gilpin School in Lymington and Hounsdown School in Totton out of seven entrants.

Pupils “captivated the judges” with their “innovative and eco-conscious designs”.

William Gilpin’s project is a ‘Chill Zone’ – an outdoor space where pupils can connect with nature.

Hounsdown won for their garden concept, introducing new habitats for wildlife and featuring 30 trees donated by the Woodland Trust.

Four schools won runner-up prizes of £250 each. Milford school will use its money for sensory planting and a bird hide, while Sopley will create a ‘secret garden’ out of an overgrown area and Lymington Junior School will install a butterfly garden.

Arnewood School is planning a wildlife space to attract birds, butterflies, and pond life.

Rob Flower, managing director of New Milton Sand and Ballast, said: “Our team was truly impressed by the dedication and ingenuity displayed by all the schools.”

Craig Whitelock, engagement officer at Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust, said: “There were so many innovative and creative ideas with a clear focus on wildlife conservation and the environment.”