MURCH Junior School has been awarded first place in this year’s Awards for Wildlife.

Judges commended the school for the amount of wildlife habitat available, and how they are enjoyed and looked after by the pupils.

They also named Y Bont Faen Primary School in second place, and Wick and District Nursery in third.

There were also high commendations for St Andrews Major Primary School, Cadoxton Nursery School, and the Amelia Trust Farm.

The winners will receive £250 and a framed certificate and presentation bowl, which will be presented in the Grand Parade at this year’s Vale of Glamorgan Agricultural Show.

Prizes of £100 and £50 were also awarded for second and third places respectively.

Judge Rob Parry, of the Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales, said: “The school stood out for a number of reasons, not least because of the amount of wildlife habitat that is available and how the habitats are enjoyed by pupils and wildlife alike.

“Murch Junior School has managed to maintain effective ground for play and other school activities, whilst ensuring that wildlife habitats are created, managed, connected and enjoyed.”