A CREATIVE nine-year-old pupil at Ledbury Primary School has come up with a name for Barratt Homes' brand new development on the outskirts of Ledbury as part of a competition organised by the homebuilder.

Pupils at the school were asked by the developer for their inspirational ideas for naming the project on Leadon Way, where building work is due to begin shortly on a selection of 221 quality two, three and four bedroom homes.

Layla Crickett, from Ledbury, was named the competition winner with her suggestion of Hawk Rise, which will be used on all signs and promotional material for the lifetime of the development.

Layla explained, "I chose the name Hawk Rise because there are lots of birds of prey in the area, swooping above us. It also fits in with our school's houses, which are named after birds of prey - kestrels, buzzards, kites and eagles."

She was thanked and presented with a prize of book vouchers in front of the school's Friday morning assembly by Barratt Homes' sales manager Nicola Watton.

Graydon Worthing, sales director at Barratt Homes West Midlands, said: "We asked the children at Ledbury Primary School for inspiration when naming our forthcoming development on Leadon Way. We're delighted to officially reveal that it will be called Hawk Rise, after Layla's imaginative and well-reasoned suggestion.

"At Barratt Homes, we pride ourselves in building quality homes and great communities, which is why we try to build relationships and involve existing members of the community throughout the homebuilding process. I'd like to personally thank Layla, the other pupils and their teachers for their enthusiasm and creativity."

The competition was also an educational experience for the pupils, who considered the local area's history, landmarks and wildlife when coming up with their names.

Julie Rees, head teacher of Ledbury Primary School said: "We were very pleased to be involved in naming Barratt Homes' new development. The competition made pupils think about where they live and they came up with great ideas for the project. We're very proud of Layla, and look forward to seeing Hawk Rise become a reality."

The first new homes at Hawk Rise are expected to be released for sale in spring 2018. For more information about the development, please call the sales information line on 0844 811 9933 or visit barratthomes.co.uk