A QUIET place away from the crowds is just what the children of Malborough and South Huish Primary School can now enjoy.

With increasing numbers of children joining the school, some youngsters were finding the playground too busy.

They wanted an area they could be quiet in, so the older students were challenged to design a spiritual garden.

Working with Japanese artist Taja, in conjunction with the Devon Guild of craftsmen, they produced three ceramic totem poles that 'reflected the children's thoughts and ideas about what spiritual meant to them' said Jackie Heath, head of school.

With the help of a Lottery funding award, the area was transformed, and the pupils helped by planting the raised beds with scented plants and flowers.

Jackie continued: 'The plants will attract wildlife to the garden, something that was important to the children.

'They can now spend break-times and lunch-times sitting at the new tables and stools or in the shade of the trees.'

The Rev Daniel French officially opened the garden with a blessing after the school's celebration assembly on Friday, June 12, and pupils have already been making full use of the area.