THE gates of The Walled Gardens of Cannington were opened to pupils from Meare Village Primary School, as part of a tour around the centre.

The Year 5 and 6 students started their day by visiting Bridgwater College’s Rodway Farm, where they learnt about life asa day in the life of a dairy farmer and where food comes from.

They met newly-born calves, took a tractor and trailer ride and milked a model cow. During the afternoon the children visited the Walled Gardens, where they were given a tour.

They were shown the newly-built aquaponics centre, located in the Botanical Glasshouse, squirting cucumbers and edible crops that are growing within the grounds and were also set a challenge to produce a Come Dine With Me-style menu.

Meare primary teacher Sarah Vincent said: “The children had a fabulous day and thoroughly enjoyed the activities.

"The Gardens’ staff were knowledgeable and well prepared.

“The activities planned were pitched perfectly and captivated the children’s attention. The children reported the day as being fun, informative and very educational.

“They were never off task and the staff could answer their questions with appropriate responses.”

Emma Butler, associate lecturer at Bridgwater College, said: “The children’s imaginations ran wild with the day’s activities.

“As part of their three course meal they included the unusual ‘cucamelons’ and Pelargonium ‘cola bottles’, which smell of Coca Cola.

“It was great to teach them about the growing process and how ingredients make it from farm to fork.”