ARNOLD School has joined forces with The Ogden Trust to provide a new school scholarship.

The educational trust is backing the Lytham Road school's initiative to help talented children from low income families attend Arnold.

Principal Bill Gillen said: "We are grateful to the Ogden Trust for this financial backing which will definitely benefit the children of families who would not normally consider attending an independent school.

"It is a very welcome and exciting development."

The Ogden Trust was founded by Lancashire millionaire businessman and philanthropist Peter Ogden, who said: "Successful entrepreneurs need to think responsibly about the distribution of their wealth. There's not much point in dying wealthy and leaving the problem to another generation."

TWO Arnold School pupils have proved they've got what it takes to become sporting stars.

Student Emma Wall, 12, has been chosen to represent the North West at this month's National Biathlon championships in Sheffield. A keen swimmer, the youngster from Woodland Drive, Poulton, will also represent the North West with two Fleetwood Swimming Club members in the team event, including fellow Arnold School pupil, 14-year-old Lauren Davies, also from Poulton.

And pupil Tyler Mattler, 13, of St Annes, has achieved baseball success. The youngster travelled with his team -- Preston Mariners -- to Oxfordshire to beat 15 other teams to gain the title Baseball Champions of Great Britain.