THE Bishop of Taunton took a visit to a primary school near Chard this week.

Reverend Ruth Worsley took a trip to Winsham Primary School to present them with the official Diocese of Bath and Wells CofE plaque.

When the school joined The Redstart Learning Partnership (TRLP) in 2019, it lost its Church of England designation.

After the conversion to TRLP, Winsham Primary School reinstated itself to the Church of England.

Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, Bishop Ruth has only just been able to visit to present the school with the plaque.

Caroline Lancey, head of school, said: "It was wonderful to host Bishop Ruth this morning and it feels like the school has been really welcomed into the diocesan family.

"The children demonstrated so powerfully our vision of living in Faith, hope and love with their beautiful singing and creative writing.

"Last week they asked the staff if they could do more for Ukraine and organised a cake and craft sale where they raised £170."

Bishop Ruth listened to the primary school pupils sing songs and saw pictures they had made.

After this Bishop Ruth delivered a mini-sermon to the staff and pupils delivering a passage from the bible followed by prayer.

This was followed by the presentation of the plaque which will be displayed at the school.

A spokesperson for TRLP added: "We are absolutely delighted that Winsham Primary has reinstated its Church of England status and even more delighted to be able to celebrate with the children, staff, Bishop Ruth and members of the diocese this morning.

"The children's assembly was fantastic, their singing, pictures and specially chosen words were thoughtful, meaningful and colourful and brightened up everyone's day.

"We look forward to working with the Diocese of Bath and Wells and Winsham in developing the Christian distinctiveness of the school and supporting the children to flourish."