Primary school pupils have been learning how to play safely, thanks to a very special visitor from Redrow Homes.

Buster Bear, one of our special health and safety mascots, visited Burscough Village Primary School along with staff from a nearby development to teach the children about how to stay safe near construction sites.

Head teacher Anna Smith said: “It was really useful, so good; and the children thoroughly enjoyed themselves.

“They learned about the potential dangers of a building site and what can happen with holes and other obstacles – as well, of course, as not to enter! But it was done in a fun and engaging way – and Redrow even dressed pupils up in the same outfit as Buster with the hard hat and the reflective vest.”

She added: “It was health and safety week in school so it linked perfectly with that - we talked about keeping safe generally and the importance of reflective clothing, especially with the darker nights now.

“We also used the talk to look at different jobs and why it is important to be able to have mathematical skills and knowledge. It is also important for the children to learn about the local community. It was really valuable and, of course, children learn so much more when it’s fun.”

The children got the chance to meet our furry VIP in assembly when our health and safety manager Tom Kelly arrived with Buster, plus Ciara Banks and Michael Cheyne, sales consultant and site manager respectively from The Grange at Yew Tree Park, in Burscough, and marketing co-ordinator Rebecca Hornbuckle.

Tom said: “As a company we are committed to safety whether it’s the staff and employees who work on our sites, or the people who live in the communities where we build.

“Staying safe near construction sites is an important message all year round but especially so when holidays like Christmas are coming up. Even in the cold weather, children play outside and, with The Grange being close to Burscough Primary, we wanted to make sure we drove the safety message home but in a fun and entertaining way.”