ARTWORK by Earlston Primary School pupils has proved a smash hit in a competition run by Hunter Demolition.

The specialist contractor, which was appointed by Scottish Borders Council (SBC) in February to demolish the adjacent former Earlston High buildings, ran a contest to design a safety sign for its project.

The winners were announced at the school’s assembly on Friday, April 4.

First prize went to primary three pupil William Kyle who received a demolition machine model, hard hat and a tour of the demolition machine being used on the former high school.

Second place went to Leah Ainslie and Cara Harkness, both primary seven pupils, and third prize was won by primary five pupil Ryan Farquhar. All received a demolition machine model and £10 gift voucher.

James Mcallister, Contracts Manager of Hunter Demolition, said: “All classes have been showing an enthusiastic interest in the ongoing demolitions.

“During the initial stages of the project we attended a school assembly to talk to the kids about the work we are doing, the site set up and dangers associated with it.

“To further enhance an understanding of the risks and pupil no-go areas, we suggested an art competition associated with construction/demolition site safety. We had a great response to the competition which the kids hopefully enjoyed and also found educational.” The demolition programme is due to come to an end next month with the removal of the former main building, gym halls and associated annexe block.

SBC’s Executive Member for Roads and Infrastructure, Councillor Gordon Edgar, said: “It is good to see the pupils of Earlston Primary learning about site safety with Hunter Demolition through this art competition.

“The overall project will see the site come back into use and play a different role in community life, perhaps to the benefit of the schoolchildren involved in the competition.”