REPRESENTATIVES from Andover’s schools joined schools from across the UK that were invited to Regent’s Park, London, to take part in a prestigious awards ceremony in the presence of Dr Jane Goodall as part of the global Roots & Shoots programme.

Andover Trees United had been invited to send a team of four students to take part in the awards ceremony because of the exemplary work of the young people involved in caring for the environment, animals and people.

Portway Juniors, Andover C of E Primary and John Hanson were the schools chosen to represent Andover Trees United as, in addition to their contribution to the local tree planting initiative, they are registered with the Roots & Shoots programme and had been learning about the work of Dr Goodall.

Project coordinator, Wendy Davis, said: “It is an honour to be invited to the Roots & Shoots Awards as, out of the 1500 registered schools, only a handful are given the opportunity to attend.”

The group travelled to London courtesy of SW Trains who donated seven complimentary first class rail tickets.

Phil Dominey, stakeholder manager for South West Trains- Network Rail Alliance said: “We are delighted to beable to support these local schools who are working so hard to plant trees in the Andover area.

“By getting involved in caring for the environment, animals and people, Andover Trees United is making a positive mark on their local community.”

On arrival at London Zoo the four students prepared a creative showcase of the work of Andover Trees United and described to Dr Goodall and the other participants and guests what they had achieved, why it was important and how they would build on their work for the future preservation of the planet.

They were presented with certificates and trophies from Dr Jane Goodall and National Geographic, who sponsored the prizes.

Hasugi Anandarajah, one of the younger members of the Andover Trees United team, said, “Dr Jane Goodall looked at our display and said she might, if she had time, visit Harmony Woods. After the awards ceremony, we then had the chance to look around the zoo.”