PUPILS at a Mid Devon school are climbing the right kind of walls thanks to a recent lottery grant.

Kentisbeare Primary School received £10,000 from the Big Lottery Fund to create new play areas for its children after its playing fields were waterlogged following heavy rainfall and flooding.

They now have an adventure play area made of recycled tyres and a two climbing walls alongside their playground, meaning that even when it rains they will have somewhere to play.

Teacher Emma Postlethwaite, said the children were really enjoying their new playground.

She said: ‘‘Our outdoor play area is split on different levels and is very scenic with a river running through the bottom of our grounds.

“Our playground is situated in this area and, unfortunately, as the river level rises it causes flooding onto the playground and bogging in certain areas of the surrounding fields.

“When heavy rain occurs large parts of the playground become unavailable as the playground doesn’t drain rain water.

“We were thrilled to receive this grant, this equipment means the children now have more options during play time.

“The adventure play has two areas of balance beams, which means they are suitable for all our children.

“The new equipment also improves the accessibility as the soft tread flooring drains rain water well."

She added: “We are very grateful to the Big Lottery Fund – this has made a real difference to our children.”