PUPILS are working flat out to collect money for a trip to South West Africa.

The lucky seven Fred Longworth High students need to raise £2,500 each in order to take part in a four-week project in Namibia next July.

The group of 14 to 16-year-olds from the Tyldesley school will be accompanied by science teacher Andy Prescott, and joined by six students from Newbold College, in Chesterfield, to work as a team helping in a Namibian school.

They will be involved in various projects, including helping build garden irrigation channels, fitting school library shelving, marking out football and volleyball pitches, and being classroom assistants.

The seven pupils are 16-year-olds Daniel Wood, Sam Rudderham and Laura Condon, 15-year-olds Adrian Davies, and Oliver Lee, plus Aamber Taylor and Louise Leonard, both 14.

They each need to raise £2,500 through individual fund-raising, as well as group activities both in and out of school.

The fee covers the cost of their training in Britain, their flight to Namibia, their transport and living costs during their stay, plus medical insurance.

The trip, which has been organised in conjunction with World Challenge Projects, particularly appealed to deputy head Chris Stanisstreet, who worked as a volunteer in the developing country for two years. She sees the project as a challenge for the pupils, but thinks they will gain a lot from the experience.

"They have shown their commitment and determination in that they are actually having to raise the money themselves and they will be going to work, rather than to lie on a beach," she said. "They have already learned a lot about teamwork and how to get on with others.

"I think the biggest challenge will be being away from home for a month, it will give them an opportunity to experience independence and develop their initiative. I have so much admiration for them -- I don't think I could have done it at their age."

Daniel Wood, the oldest of the seven, left Fred Longworth last year and is now studying A-levels at Winstanley College, but has been involved with the project from the start.

He said: "I was interested in the project from day one. There were about 400 students at the first meeting, but that has gradually been whittled down to a dedicated seven. It's a lot of money to raise, but it will be worth it in the end."

Daniel, who still needs to find £1,800, has organised a charity night at Tyldesley Rugby Club on Friday, November 9 to help gather funds. The event, which starts at 7.30pm will include live musicians, a disco and hotpot supper. Tickets cost £6 and are available from Daniel on 01942 895152.