CHILDREN from a Newport school were the first to dip into a new partnership between Welsh Water and the Forestry Commission.

Year Five pupils from Millbrook Junior School, Bettws, paid a visit to Welsh Water's environmental education centre at Cog Moors, near Cardiff.

They took part in pond-dipping and habitat studies, which were led by Sheena O'Leary, education officer with the Forestry Commission.

Mary Watkins, a seconded teacher at the centre, said: "The partnership is working well as the Forestry Commission shares our commitment to education and the environment, and together we're able to offer children a valuable experience.

"It also means that when appropriate, we can run two sessions simultaneously. In the past we've had to turn people away because the centre has proved so popular, but we've now got the opportunity to accommodate larger groups, which helps schools in reducing the cost of transport."

Ms O'Leary said: "Already the partnership has delivered a fresh approach to teaching. In the future the relationship will enable us to exchange ideas and combine strengths."

During the visit the Newport pupils were given the opportunity to try out the centre's orienteering course, which will be officially launched later in the year.

To book a visit to the Cog Moors telephone 029 2051 5621.