PUPILS at Cossington Primary School received an extra special visit from a Government minister this morning.

Dan Norris, Minister for Waste and Recycling, stopped by during his trip to see Somerset Waste Partnership's new collection services in the county.

He saw how Cossington Primary has adopted the Somerset Waste Action Programme, which promotes re-use, recycling, composting and minimising waste.

He also talked with pupils and staff about their recycling habits and took part in a workshop highlighting the importance of the three Rs - reduce, reuse and recycle.

Mr Norris said afterwards: “Effective waste collection is vital to the health and well-being of everyone.

“Most of us don't think about what happens to our waste once it leaves our homes.

“But waste including from food can be a valuable resource, and listening to and seeing those involved in the industry in Somerset has given me a real insight into how it can be used to power homes and be used as compost.

“Today I have also seen the great work of the Somerset Waste Action Programme and how they are educating the younger generation in schools on the importance of waste and recycling.”

Catherine Groves, head teacher of Cossington Primary School, said: “The children loved it.

“They are learning about India at the moment and it was a good opportunity to tie-in recycling habits of people around the world.

“Dan was a very charming man and it is nice for the school to have him visit. We will now do more research on Dan and his role in the Government for our pupils to learn more about him.”