ECO-friendly schoolgirl Kathryn Walker put politicians to shame when she summed up what action needs to be take to save our plant in a single sentence -- "Give the world the kiss of life".

Kathryn, aged 10, of St Andrew's RC Primary School, Breightmet, hit upon the award-winning slogan when she took part in an environmental event for children across Bolton -- the Eco Forum Conference 2000.

And for her incisive use of words Kathryn won herself two top prizes along with cash for her school by beating off other youngsters in a debating and a poster design competition.

Kathryn was one of 12 pupils from the school to attend the conference held at Bolton's Festival Hall and part of the town's Agenda 21 eco-initiative.

Kathryn left the audience awe-struck when she used the slogan as part of her persuasive public speech on why it is important to look after our environment.

"This is our world and we are the future," Kathryn told the audience. "Let's start the new millennium the right way, let's save the world and keep the future bright. The world needs the kiss of life."

Her topical talk saw Kathryn walk away with first prize of a £20 gift voucher and £50 for her school.

And she later repeated this by using the slogan to good effect when she used as part of her first prize winning poster design.

Proud teacher Jacqueline Devine said: "Kathryn's was certainly the most persuasive argument and she was full of confidence when she gave the speech.

"A lot of the children do have views and concerns about the environment and they are keen to share those views with others." But not the be outdone by Kathryn's success her classmates showed they were also winners on the green scene when they dressed for success in a recycled fashion show.

"I set the children the task just before the conference and they really took to it," said Miss Devine. "We then had to root around the school to find things to use for the competition."

Pupil Rachel Hewitson, 10, came through the clothes show to take top honours with her 21st Century Girl design, skilfully crafted from bubble-wrap and a fruit sack.

And classmate Lisa Bannister won the most original design prize with her Choking River costume, made from a recycled dress, paper and "bits from the bin".

"The children really enjoyed the conference and were delighted to take part," said Miss Devine. "To have won first place in four competitions was a fantastic achievement and a wonderful surprise. After the event they said 'We've done really well Miss, everyone at school will be so proud.'"