Mini cops from Willow Wood Primary School clean up the streets

Year 5 pupils at Willow Wood Primary School teamed up PCSOs Clare Atkins and Matthew Smith from Cheshire Police to launch a new community project.

Wearing uniforms including high visibility vests and caps, they have pledged to improve their neighbourhood.

Year 5 teacher Adam Aspinall said: "On Monday we completed a litter pick around the housing estate outside our school.

"Children demonstrated excellent teamwork skills and identified waste that can and cannot be recycled. They filled and collected 30 bags.

Willow Wood Primary School pupils completed a litter pick around the housing estate near their school

"We plan to deliver a workshop with a recycling expert in the near future."

The mini cops are focusing on three areas they feel would help the community.

Pupils have vowed to reduce littering and recycling because they feel it is important to reduce plastics being deposited in our oceans and they also want to improve the appearance of the town.

Children are concerned about speeding as they want to keep everyone safe on the roads.

"They will be working alongside the police to learn about how we can make Winsford a better place to be," said Adam.

READ > Towns set for ‘future-proof’ Openreach broadband boost

"They worked collaboratively to create their motto 'United in improving our community'.

"In class we have learnt about what hate crimes are and produced posters to promote tackling hate crimes," said Adam. "The winning posters will be professionally produced and displayed."

PCSO Matthew Smith said: “Children at Willow Wood Primary School had identified the environment as one of the subjects they felt passionately about.

"The litter pick was their first mini police assignment and we are immensely proud of the enthusiasm shown by all involved. “Thanks to Mr Aspinall of Willow Wood Primary School for assisting.

“We look forward to working with the school’s mini police on further initiatives in the coming weeks.”