A KEIGHLEY school has received grant aid from the North of England Horticultural Society (NEHS).

Worth Valley Primary was awarded £300 to support a programme of 'grow and cook' workshops for pupils.

The venture is among a record 40 community gardening projects being supported by the NEHS this year.

Funding has been announced in three main categories – improving the landscape, grow and learn and commemoration, which supports the preservation and improvement of war memorials.

The NEHS, which is funded by profits from twice-yearly Harrogate flower shows, also backs more than 50 garden-related organisations and specialist societies.

Spokesman Nick Smith said: "Horticulture has always played a hugely important role in local communities and our grant scheme aims to provide support and encouragement to those who would like to make a real difference in their neighbourhood.

"Education also plays a vital part in encouraging youngsters to enjoy gardening and form closer bonds with nature, and it is always great to see so many inspiring grow and learn projects being put forward."

The grants scheme is open to groups across the north.

The NEHS was set-up in 1911 to support horticulture in the region.

It organises hugely-popular spring and autumn flower shows at the Great Yorkshire Showground.

Visit flowershow.org.uk for more details.