Pupils at Sandal Magna were asked to draw pictures of what a perfect playground would look like – then what could happen to it if it was neglected.

Now their ideas will be fed into the design framework of the new play area being built on William Prince Grove in Belle Vue.

The idea was dreamt up by Debbie Parr, of the Agbrigg and Belle Vue neighbourhood management team, and police community support officer Julie Wood to encourage the children to take care of the environment and community they live in.

MP Mary Creagh, Insp Karen Bailes, of the rural neighbourhood police team, and members of Wakefield District Housing chose the winning designs.

Ms Creagh said: “It was brilliant to be at the school and see the children’s work.

“It is great that the playground is finally being built, it is something we have been working for since 2006.”

And the designs by the children will be on display in the Agbrigg and Belle Vue Community Centre, on Montague Street.

Ms Creagh also praised the work of the staff at Belle Vue Road School, which is currently being rebuilt as an eco-school.

She said: “I have to pay tribute to the staff. They teach the children about the environment and recycling. The children told me that they even turn the lights out so teachers have to do marking in the dark.

“It will be a fantastic school when complete full of all the latest eco-features.”

The winning pupils received vouchers from WDH.