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Pupils’ faces “absolutely lit up” after 200 pumpkins were donated to Nant y Parc school, in Senghenydd, ahead of Halloween.

The pumpkins were donated by the Tesco store on Crossways, Caerphilly, after the school approached staff for support.

Headteacher Nicola Davies offered “heartfelt thanks” to the store for the “wonderful donation” and said: “The children’s faces absolutely lit up when they saw the pumpkins being delivered – it was such a joyful surprise.

“They’ve had so much fun with them, and we’re incredibly grateful for the support in making healthy eating a hands-on, enjoyable experience for our students.”

The children have been using the pumpkins to make soup and spooky jack-o-lanterns.

The donation was made as part of Tesco’s nationwide Fruit and Veg for Schools scheme, which aims to provide fresh produce to young people across the country.

Henry Gosling, Tesco Fruit and Veg for Schools manager, said: “Although pumpkins weren’t part of the original Fruit and Veg for Schools scheme, when the school reached out, we just couldn’t say no.

“We saw a wonderful opportunity to bring a bit of seasonal excitement to the pupils, while also encouraging a healthy and active lifestyle.”

Mr Gosling continued: “It’s been a joy to support their learning in such a fun, hands-on way. The school has been here for many years, and it is an honour to be able to support such a pillar in the community.”