SCHOOL children in Newport have been stamping down their carbon footprints and aiding the environment by collecting over 650,000 Christmas cards.

Instead of clogging up precious landfill space the cards will now be recycled in a scheme organised by Newport City Council.

Children at Durham Road Junior School were crowned winners the event after collecting 66,548 cards - an average of 199 cards per pupil.

With the help of her grandmother, Molly Ormond, a ten-year-old year five pupil, amassed over 6,000 cards to the Durham Road haul and helped earn £200 prize money for the school.

Jeff Beecher, Headteacher at Durham Road Junior, said: "Our pupils, staff and our local community have provided a wonderful response.

"It has been a great way to spread to recycling message and we look forward to taking part next year," Mr Beecher said.

40 Newport schools took part in the competition and all cards collected will now be taken to Severnside Recycling and will help the Woodland Trust in conserving and planting more trees.

Councillor Ray Truman, cabinet member for community safety and the sustainability, said: "Whether we come together as a school, or as a wider community, the people of Newport can make a huge difference to their environment.

"Our schools should be commended for providing such a positive example."