Green Space A Breath Of Fresh Air - Teather

12.00.00am BST (GMT +0100) Fri 13th Jun 2008

MP Sarah Teather congratulated local parents, teachers and children

Local Liberal Democrat MP for Brent East Sarah Teather has officially opened the new Green Space at Salusbury School in Queens Park.

The Green Space was conceived by Salusbury School parent governors as a way of providing the school with some much needed "breathing space".

The site has no playing field, and there is very little space for the children to play or simply relax. The school raised funds to buy some adjoining land from the former Paddington Cemetery next door. An auction night, with items including afternoon tea with Sarah in the Houses of Parliament, generated over £20,000.

The newly landscaped area features trees, shrubs, planters for vegetables and a sensory garden area including fragrant herbs. The space will also help with lessons: giving teachers the opportunity to promote ideas of healthy eating and sustainability, and also as a "quiet space" for children.

Local Brent East Liberal Democrat MP Sarah Teather said:

"The new green space at Salusbury School is a great example of the community clubbing together to get things done.

"In a dense, built-up place like Brent its so important that children have access to greenery and the natural environment. I have no doubt that this new garden will prove to be a much loved addition to the school.

"I was pleased to be able to play a small role in the fundraising campaign and warmly congratulate all the parents, teachers and children who have worked so hard to make this garden happen."