GREEN-FINGERED pupils from Largs and St Mary's primary schools are digging deep to brighten up their new school.

The youngsters were happy to get down and dirty as they kickstarted a project to transform the campus' community garden by weeding the area outside the school.

It is the first stage of a scheme being undertaken by pupils to overhaul the outside of the building to make it a more welcoming place for staff, pupils and visitors.

The youngsters are hoping that by putting down roots now for the project, future classes can reap the benefits of an attractive outdoor space.

Pupils, staff and parent volunteers from both schools came together to begin the development of their shared school gardens, which will make up to the Largs Campus Community Garden.

The eco committees have joined forces to come up with designs for what they'd like to see in these green spaces, including areas for growing fruits and vegetables, flowers to attract insects, herbs and other sensory plants.

They also hope to include composting facilities, a bug hotel and bird tables.

Once the raised beds are in place and prepared, planting will begin.

The group is keen to thank the parent councils and community volunteers who have provided both strategic direction, hard labour and funding to allow all of the work to go ahead.

A spokesperson said: "The gardens will provide the children with a wealth of learning opportunities, as well as outdoor spaces that they can appreciate and enjoy.

"They have embraced the who ideal and we can't wait to see the finished garden in full bloom."