KIND-HEARTED youngsters at a Blackpool school have raised hundreds of pounds to help a former student buy a brand new set of wheels.

Youngsters in Lune House at Highfield High School raised £350 to support ex-pupil Richard Spencer, who needed an updated wheelchair.

"Richard is now at Blackpool Sixth Form College continuing his academic studies and we hope that our contribution will help him add to his already considerable achievements," said Highfield head teacher Ian Evans.

But it's not the only fund-raising pupils and staff at the Highfield Road school have undertaken. This year's target of £2002 for school charities Macmillan Windmill Appeal, NSPCC and OXFAM has already been met.

And Dr Barnados, RSPCA and Cancer Research have also benefited on a smaller scale.

Students and staff including "the ladies in the office" have clubbed together and run events such as five-a-side soccer competitions, discos, raffles and cake stalls to raise money.

"There has always been a tradition at Highfield of respecting those less fortunate than ourselves, and doing something about it," said Mr Evans.

"Our efforts will continue until the summer holidays and beyond."