`PUPILS from eight primary schools visited Okehampton's Waitrose branch recently for the launch of the store's Grow and Sell Seed Kit Scheme for 2015.

The schools —Okehampton, North Tawton, Hatherleigh, Lew Trenchard, Boasley Cross, Merton, Northlew and Lifton — were presented with kits containing all they need to grow a variety of vegetables, which the store hopes they will come back and sell to Waitrose customers later in the year.

The launch included a presentation from Mrs Rickwood of Okehampton Primary and pupils Holly and Blake from Okehampton Primary.

The event was rounded off with courgette and carrot cake.

The scheme is aimed at encouraging seven to eleven year olds to grow their own produce and harvest food crops.

It encourages team work and will inspire and motivate children to learn more about where food comes from, as well as appreciating the challenges around farming and weather conditions.

When the children harvest their crops they will be invited to sell them to Waitrose customers, and the funds raised will go back to the schools for re-investment. If you would like to know more about the scheme please contact Theresa Edwards or Charlotte Tucker at Waitrose Okehampton on 01837 659008.