EAST Lancashire teenagers are hoping to take a dream trip to America following a tip from former US Secret-ary of State Condoleeza Rice.

Ms Rice, who visited Blackburn in 2007, encouraged pupils at Pleckgate High School and teenagers from the area to get involved in the Congressional Youth Leadership Council (CYLC).

Now a group is planning to travel to America next year to find out more about the council.

Among those hoping to take part is 17-year-old Jessica Randell, who is now studying for A-levels at Clitheroe Royal Grammar School.

Jessica, of Hardy Street, Black-burn, said: “I was too young to go when Ms Rice talked about the CYLC, but now I’m old enough, attending the council meeting would be the experience of a lifetime.

“I’m studying four A-levels and hoping to become a barrister, and this experience of international law and politics would help me so much, as well as giving me the chance to represent my school and Blackburn with Darwen.”

The council brings together top students from around the globe to learn about, and discuss, key international issues, from finance and global security, to human rights and international law, meet diplomats, and learn about US democracy. Joining Jessica will be Sophie Tomlinson, Matt Akerman, Zara Shaheen and Michael Davies, and all need to raise £4,000 for the trip. Jessica said: “I’m working part-time, and fundraising alongside that and my studies, but I’m worried it won’t be enough.

“I appreciate local firms are going through hard times, but if 200 local firms each donated just £10 I’d have half the money I need. It would be a fantastic way for companies to show they are supporting young people in doing positive things.”

During the visit they will also visit top landmarks, including the Lincoln Memorial and the Vietnam veterans memorial in Washington DC. Robin Campbell, head at Pleckgate, said: “Jessica is thoroughly deserving of this opportunity as she always represented the school so well as head girl and set a wonderful example to the younger pupils”