A WEST Norfolk primary school marked its last term in style by transforming their surroundings into a Formula 1 racing circuit.

A WEST Norfolk primary school marked its last term in style by transforming their surroundings into a formula one racing circuit.

Youngsters at East Harling Primary School visited the Lotus factory in Hingham for a behind-the-scenes tour, took part in motor sport-based lessons, and fixed bunting and decorations to transform the school.

All classes designed and created their own team colours, motor sport team name and racing cars.

Over the past half term pupils met and interviewed a range of local motor sport enthusiasts including a rally driver, driving instructor, car salesman and an engineer from Lotus Engineering.

They also enjoyed looking at a range of cars, including a Rolls Royce, Capri, Ford Cortina, Ferrari and Lotus Evora, and attempted to guess their age as well as their specifications.

All of the children aged three to seven had the opportunity to drive a mini Land Rover and each junior class had the opportunity to visit a nearby motor sport industry including iSport at Carleton Rode, Van Diemen and Lotus Engineering.

Year six children enjoyed a behind the scenes tour at Snetterton Circuit as cars were being put through their paces around the track.

Former racing driver Martin Donnelly also visited the school to talk about his racing career.

Headteacher Amanda Yates said: “We wanted to say a special thank you to Lotus Racing for all of the enthusiasm and interest they have shown in our MotorSport topic.

“They have given the children a unique insight into the world of work and motor sport.

“We have been bowled over by the generosity of all the local motor sport businesses in supporting our topic. The experiences that the children have been given will stay with them for a lifetime.”