MASSIVE celebrations took place at Stock-bridge Primary School as the last phase of its wildlife and heritage millennium project was finally unveiled to the public.

The huge transformation of the school grounds has incl-uded a new climbing frame and the creation of a dedicated wildlife area.

But it was the conversion of the old bicycle shed into Stockbridge railway station that attracted the crowds on this occasion. The grand re-opening also coincided with the Hampshire Gardens Tr-ust millennium awards, which the school hosted after achieving first prize for its development.

The village primary school came up with the idea after researching the history of the local area and incorporating the school's location next to Sprat and Winkle railway line. Headteacher Simon Francis paid tribute to project co-ordinators Cathy Ridley and Sue Parish, described as 'the driving force' behind the school's transformation. "This project is down to the generosity and hard work of an awful lot of people, but two people in particular have had a seemingly large part to play in this success," Mr Francis said. "Without their enthusiasm and energy we would not have been hosting this day and winning first prize."

On awarding Mr Francis a trophy and cheque for £3,800, the deputy Lord Lieutenant of Hampshire Richard Hoare described the project as 'outstanding in every sense'.