PUPILS at Tibberton CE First School have been watching the weather forecast carefully after they had solar panels installed at school.

The school's new solar panel system is expected to save 2.6 tonnes of carbon emissions as well as saving up to £1,300 a year in energy bills.

The installation adds to the schools environmental ethos, which is championed by their eco council, made up of pupil representatives.

Alex Gromski, Tibberton’s deputy head, who oversaw the project, said: "The school eco council and all the children at Tibberton CE First School are very excited by the installation of our new solar panels.

"The children are discovering how solar energy helps us look after our environment by reducing our carbon emissions.

"It is fantastic to think that we are making enough clean electricity to heat our dinners and keep our school lights on.

"This year we have already saved emissions equivalent to those made on a 350 mile car journey."

The solar panels were funded by Worcestershire County Council as part of its spend to save scheme and installed by Place Partnership.

The solar panels are expected to pay for themselves in nine years.

Councillor Anthony Blagg, deputy leader of Worcestershire County Council and cabinet member with responsibility for environment said: "It is always exciting to see young people getting involved with the environment and how important it is to live sustainably.

"The installation of the solar panels will see that the school will begin to save money on their energy bills and will also help to provide an ongoing project for the school eco council to monitor for years to come."