PUPILS at a Bournemouth primary school are making the most of the mild autumn and enjoying al fresco lunches.

Children at the Elm Academy in Holloway Avenue are enjoying the great outdoors thanks to the addition of 14 new picnic benches.

Twelve of the picnic benches and tables were bought thanks to donations from the Bournemouth North Rotary Club and from ward Cllr Beryl Baxter’s local improve-ment fund.

A further two benches were donated free of charge by B&Q Castlepoint when the deputy store manager Lorraine Challis wanted to boost the school’s total.

Head of the Elm Academy, Helen Janda, said: “Everyone in the school community is extremely grateful for the very kind donations that have enabled us to buy the picnic benches.

“We actively encourage our children to lead a more active and healthy lifestyle and a key part of that is getting outdoors and enjoying the fresh air.

“The picnic benches will provide an outdoor place where the children can either enjoy their lunches or some quiet reflection at break times.”

Pupils from class 5J, teaching assistant Beth Tyers and site team member Andy Heal worked hard to put the benches together and site them across the school.

They will be used by all age groups.