ATHERTON'S Green Hall School is chasing a Green Flag Eco Award by slashing energy bills and creating an Atherton oasis.

The school has already achieved silver standard through its commitment with pupil, staff and governors meetings to decide the policy of keeping the school clean, friendly and efficient.

An 'Eco" garden has been created with vegetable plot and pond and 25 trees have been planted around school.

Last year water and electricity bills proved the eco theme works - nearly £2,000 was saved over the previous 12 months simply by turning off lights and taps.

Double glazing and roof insulation are being installed to slash the gas bill even further and a new paper recycling project is well under way as pupils and staff spread the 'save it' message.