Castleton school children become Blue Peter stars for the day

Group with Chris Packham, Lucy Grogan (wearing silver jumper), Jamie Farnworth (wearing blue jacket), Jack Taylor (tallest boy stood next to Chris Packham), Evan Brigham (wearing blue jumper), Sam Tang (red and grey jumper)

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Nature-loving Castleton schoolchildren were the stars of Blue Peter on Thursday night (31 January) as they lent wildlife expert Chris Packham a hand.

The Springwatch host and former presenter of The Really Wild Show was appearing on Blue Peter to discuss winter wildlife and four children from St Edwards CE Primary School starred alongside him.

It follows the school’s involvement in the Big Schools’ Birdwatch the previous week and Deputy Head Kim Farrall said the children had a great day.

“It was a really fantastic day,” she said. “They went down after school and got to see the programme being made and all the inner-workings of the studio.

“They also got to sit in the green room and talk to Chris Packham and Helen Skelton.

“It was a great opportunity for them to talk to Chris and learn more about wildlife and they made bird feeders with him.

“Unfortunately they did not get chance to ask their questions on the show but they interviewed him afterwards for our school radio.

“They were asking questions such as which bird lays the biggest egg, and why they can sit on electric wires without being electrocuted!”

The four children who appeared on the show - Evan Brigham, Jack Taylor, Jamie Farnworth and Lucy Grogan - were also joined by Sam Tang when they spoke with Chris afterwards.

Mrs Farrall revealed they had all been proudly showing off their Blue Peter badges to their fellow pupils in the school.

“It was an amazing opportunity for the children and it is good to know our school is being recognised for all of its eco work,” she added.