Caldicot schoolchildren, witnessed a little bit of history being made in the town when the turf was cut to herald the building of their new school.

Monmouthshire's Vice Chairman, Councillor Maureen Powell cut the first turf of Dewstow primary school at a ceremony last week.

The development is part of Monmouthshire County Council's twenty first century schools programme, and will replace West End Infants and Green Lane Junior School.

The new school will be built on the former Green Lane site and construction starts next month. Contractors Willmott Dixon Construction are scheduled to complete the new building so that it is ready for the new school year in September 2012.

Monmouthshire's Chief Officer for Children and Young People, Andy Keep said: "I fully expect the new school building to be not only the best in Wales but the best in Britain. It will be a 21st century building where 21st century learning takes place and a school that the local community can take great pride in".

Monmouthshire's cabinet member for Children, Young People and Learning, Councillor Liz Hacket Pain added: "This is a fantastic opportunity for the children of Caldicot.

"I'm looking forward to seeing work in progress and can't wait for the school to open next year."