Petersfield pupils will be able to monitor air pollution thanks to a smart new gadget provided by a local campaigner and a grant from East Hampshire District Council.

The portable air monitor donated to The Petersfield School by Love Lane resident Ann Saunders, who is campaigning to cut car emissions in the town, will measure air pollutants around the school, particularly at drop-off and pick-up points.

It can also test the levels of pollution that pupils are exposed to on their daily commute to school.

The monitor was part-paid for by a grant from East Hampshire District Council member Julie Butler and former pupils.

Mrs Saunders presented the monitor to TPS principal Mark Marande and school eco-committee member Ossian Shine and eco-ambassador Maja Ostersen (pictured right with Mrs Saunders, left, and Cllr Butler).

Mrs Saunders said: “They have been using the sensor already, and it’s heart warming that TPS has been busy looking how the school can be more eco-friendly.”

Mr Marande added: “We are absolutely committed to playing our part in helping to fight climate change.

“Our students are very passionate about this topic and we hope the air quality monitor will help our education campaign by turning our students into citizen scientists who can help to raise awareness and change behaviours.”