Visitors to the Royal Bath and West Show were able to step inside a sustainable house created by carpentry students from Norton Radstock College.

The timber framed house showcased simple initiatives that households can introduce to help save the planet, from insulation to draught proofing. Lorna Crouch, marketing manager at Norton Radstock College, said: “By 2020 EU directives require a 20 per cent reduction in carbon use and by 2050 an 80 per cent reduction.

“As a result of the Government’s Green Deal we have come up with a range of courses and qualifications which are suitable for those working in the industry and looking to increase their knowledge and upskill in order to work in this area.

“The sustainable house at the show will be surrounded by a water-free garden. Created by horticulture students, the garden will demonstrate how water can be used effectively and sustainably and in certain cases, with the right planting, not at all.”