PUPILS at Penarth's Ashgrove School were recently asked to design the logo for Coastal Connections.

The winner was Josef McCarthy, who bagged himself a Santa Cruz rucksack and a free surf lesson with Porthcawl Surf.

The winning logo has been embroided on a set of waterproof jackets and t-shirts for pupils to use whilst working with Coastal Connections.

Kerry Baker, teacher at Ashgrove School which caters for pupils aged three to 18 with autism, and leader of Coastal Connections said: "The jackets and t-shirts enable all to be involved regardless of the weather, and they offer the group a sense of belonging."

Ashgrove has been working with Coastal Connections since July 2011.

"We have seen remarkable progress across the curriculum and beyond," added Kerry.

"Pupils' self esteem, confidence, self awareness and behaviour have all improved.

"Their teachers tell us they are much happier and relaxed in class, now that they regularly have the chance to spend whole days outside at their local beaches."