A Lake District primary school officially unveiled its newly installed solar panels, by using their energy to light up its Christmas tree!

Local MP Tim Farron visited the pupils and staff of Hawkshead Esthwaite Primary School at the end of November to celebrate the completion of the installation and switch on the festive lights.

Funding for the £38,000 project came jointly from Foundation and the Low Carbon Buildings Programme and has allowed the school to build on its commitment to reduce carbon emissions and protect the environment.

Activities such as the creation of a pupils’ “Eco committee” that monitors and records the use of lights and computers, and regular community open days which focus on sustainable issues and education have already seen the school achieve an Eco Green Flag award.

The 7.82kW solar photovoltaic roof system was installed by local firm Sundog Energy and will supply a percentage of the school’s electricity needs and save around 3 tonnes of CO2 each year.

Head teacher Joyce Hallam said: “Having the solar panels enables the children to see first hand the benefits of using renewable energy. They can monitor the amount of carbon emissions we are saving each day and see for themselves how electricity can be produced using the sun's energy. This supports curricular science and enhances their understanding of what it means to be a sustainable school.”