NEW outdoor play facilities, a garden for growing vegetables, a secure bike shelter, or maybe somewhere to store PE equipment.

Whatever the dream, the Daily Echo could be about to turn it into a reality.

We have teamed up with construction firm Leadbitter to offer primary schools in Southampton and Hampshire the chance to win a share of £6,000 to help turn their makeover dreams into reality.

Prizes of works up to the value of £3,000, £2,000 and £1,000 are on offer for worthwhile projects to build an outside facility to improve learning, increase a school’s green credentials, promote exercise, or make the playground a better place for kids.

ENTRY FORM IN TODAY'S DAILY ECHO

The plans will become a reality thanks to skilled professionals from Leadbitter – a major construction firm in southern England and Wales, which has its regional base in Hedge End.

Regional director Dave Cook said sponsoring the scheme is part of the firm’s dedication to communities. He said: “We are mindful of the difficulties that primary schools can have in raising the necessary funds for capital projects and hope that our School Build Challenge will, in its own way, make a difference.

“Leadbitter believes in delivering more than just great buildings – we have a responsibility to interact with our local communities, and the School Build Challenge is evidence of just that.”

The competition is open to all primary, junior and infant schools in the Daily Echo circulation area. All schools need to do is complete the application form printed on this page, telling us in no more than 200 words what the project would involve, and why it is needed. Applications must be received by March 31.

A judging panel will whittle down the entries to ten finalists, and it will then be the job of Daily Echo readers to decide which project deserves to win.

Daily Echo Editor-in-Chief, Ian Murray said: “I am absolutely delighted the Daily Echo is involved in a worthwhile scheme like this to help make a positive difference in our local schools. I look forward to seeing exciting ideas coming in from as many schools as possible, and helping them realise their dreams.”