PUPILS from Ryedale School have been sprucing up the local environment.

As part of their so-called "enrichment days" at the end of the summer term, pupils volunteered to spend the day at the National Park car park in Thornton-le-Dale, where they cleared weeds and cut back trees and shrubs.

The work was co-ordinated with the North York Moors National Park Authority.

On the way back from a snack break in the village, the pupils collected litter from around the lake.

A school spokesman said the pupils worked incredibly hard throughout the day and their efforts were much appreciated by Mary-Jane Alexander, the National Park youth engagement officer.

Ms Alexander said: "The National Park has just started an ambitious programme to engage with young people and encourage them to volunteer in the North York Moors, and it is wonderful to work with local young people from the Ryedale area, who are so keen to help look after the special protected landscapes of the National Park."

Andrew Gee, Ryedale School teacher, added: "I am really pleased that pupils chose to use their day volunteering.

"They did a fantastic job and should be very proud of themselves."