By Ronny Potiwal

PUPILS from a Hampshire primary school officially cut the ribbon at a new food store Southampton.

Hightown Primary School students were invited to open the Southern Co-operative’s new store in West End – and received a £500 donation.

Sian Cook, Hightown’s deputy head teacher, who attended the store opening with the pupils, said that it is vital that schools are able to benefit from such donations.

She added: “This will be spent on some much-needed new books for our youngest pupils, as we are keen to develop a love of books and reading at an early stage.

“Providing more play opportunities at lunchtimes also means that we can maximise learning both within and outside the classroom.”

Bonnie Traves, school councillor, said: “Thank you so much for deciding to support our school.

“We are really excited and look forward to spending the money wisely.”

Chris Gawn, manager of the new Southern Co-operative said they are very excited to be supporting the school because they want to engage with the next generation about ‘greener, safer, healthier and more inclusive neighbourhoods’ – the Southern Co-operative’s four key themes.’