EDUCATION chiefs have given Holyrood Community School in Chard a big thumbs-up following the installation of a new security fence around the school's perimeter.

The new fence has been erected and will ensure that students and staff will be reassured of their safety. Due to an increasing amount of vandalism, assaults, intruders and arson attacks and with a large amount of money being spent dealing with such incidents, Somerset County Council hopes that the security measure will go some way to reduce these cases and to provide a safer school community.

The council's South Somerset area manager for integrates services, Steve Gale, said: "It has been quite a challenge to retain the educational feel of the premises whilst needing to protect the occupants and premises from unwarranted visitors, on such a large site.

"The enhanced security for the pupils and the dramatic reduction in the cost of clearing up after those trespassers will enable the school to maintain its focus on its high educational standards."

Holyrood head teacher, Maurice Hicks, added: "The new fencing is now complete and is already proving very effective in safeguarding the school site.

"Attention to detail at the planning stage has helped to keep the site looking as attractive as possible by making use of a variety of fencing materials, including green mesh in the more visible areas.

"At the same time, the safety of students during the school day, and the security of the site outside school hours must be the priority.