GREEN-MINDED pupils proved they are the eco-warriors of the future by scooping top awards in an environmental competition.

Twelve school in Blackburn, Rossendale and Hyndburn were chosen as winners after showcasing their environmental knowledge through a variety of projects.

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And for one young girl it was her lunchtime commitment to recycling that gained her the title Eco Supporter in the Young Green Heroes Awards.

Lucy Stansfield, a pupil at St Bartholomew’s CE Primary School in Great Harwood, has been a member of the school’s Eco Council for four years.

She was chosen by award organisers Newground for helping to inspire other council members and staff and for spending her lunch break recycling, writing reports and taking minutes.

Hyndburn councillor Paul Cox, cabinet member for environmental services, said: “This is absolutely fantastic news. It’s commendable that Lucy is doing something like this in her spare time.

“It’s good to see that young people are taking the initiative and doing something positive .

“We do a lot of work in schools such as sending in our recycling officer so we can encourage children to be more green and make them aware of what they can do to help.”

Newground director Mick Smith said : “Our company ethos is to strive for a greener future.

“We’re delighted to see so many schools making big changes to ensure they become more environmentally aware.”