THE transformation of a Suckley school's pond into an interactive wildlife zone can go ahead after it has bagged the highest amount of funding thanks to the support of the county’s people.

Suckley Primary School has already won a bid for funding through the Tesco organisation, but the next stage saw schools and community groups battle it out for grants of £8,000, £10,000 or £12,000.

It was subject to public vote, and thanks to the support of Worcestershire people the school can now get to work on transforming the pond to an area which will attract pond-life, birds and insect to act as a learning corner for pupils.

It will also be open to the public to use with relaxing sitting areas, bird feeders and a pond dipping platform.

Sheila Marshall, head teacher of the school, said: "We never thought we could be this lucky.

"We are absolutely delighted to be able to develop the project, not only to improve our learning opportunities, but to open it up to family use out of school time.

"The children are already excited, and next term will be developing their own plans and ideas for the project."

The competition, called Tesco Bags of Help and run in partnership with Groundwork, saw people vote for their project in stores throughout the county with the grant money funded through the purchase of 5p bags.

Caroline Silke, Head of Community at Tesco, said: "We have been overwhelmed by the response of our customers and the feedback has been brilliant.

"We can’t wait to see the money being put to use bringing these projects to life."

Nominations and applications for the next round of Bags of Help funding will open on April 18.

For more information visit tesco.com/carrier-bags