A NEW tool for schools to encourage children to access the countryside was launched at a school in Tonbridge on Wednesday, with councillors paying the children a visit.

Cllrs Keith Ferrin and Dr Tony Robinson visited the Slade Primary School to launch Kent County Council's new countryside education "toolkit".

The guide includes activities for the children to learn about topics including public rights of way and the countryside code.

Vivienne Resch, the school's headteacher, said the pupils had shown a good understanding of the subject matter.

"They very much enjoyed the materials and it supports the national curriculum," she said, "but more importantly, it does encourage the children to access the countryside."

Development of the 30-page pack, which is available free-of-charge, was part of the county council's 10-year countryside access improvement plan which was launched in April.

A copy can be ordered by calling 08458 247600 or emailing explorekent@kent. gov.uk