A PUPIL of Ledbury Primary is only nine but she's already made her mark in the town, by naming a major new housing estate.

When Barratt Homes were looking for ideas for their new 221-home estate, to be built on Leadon Way, they thought of the primary and organised a competition.

The winner was Layla Crickett, aged nine, who triumphed with her suggestion of Hawk Rise, which will now be used on all signs and promotional material for the lifetime of the development.

She said: "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 a recent school assembly by Barratt Homes’ Sales Manager Nicola Watton.

Graydon Worthing, Sales Director at Barratt Homes West Midlands, said: “We’re delighted to officially reveal that it will be called Hawk Rise, after Layla’s imaginative and well-reasoned suggestion.

“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 next spring.