Green-fingered schoolchildren got a helping hand from a television idol.

Blue Peter gardener Chris Collins visited Falmer High School in Lewes Road, Brighton, to open a polytunnel for vegetables.

The tunnel will be used to produce fresh organic food for the school's pupils and teachers and the nearby Bridge Community Cafe in Lucraft Road in Moulsecoomb.

The TV star then spoke to pupils about designing gardens for the prestigious Chelsea Flower Show.

Warren Carter, of Moulsecoomb Forest Garden and Wildlife Project, runs the school's gardening club.

He said: "It's great that Chris is showing an interest in his old school.

"Just like Chris, many of the pupils that help out with the gardening aren't always top of the class.

"The gardening gives them an opportunity to show just what they are capable of.

"Let's just hope he can persuade them that weeding is fun too."