A BUSINESS has stepped in at the eleventh hour to give a much needed boost to a high school's bid for specialist status.

Global Telecom Partnerships have donated £20,000 to fund Woodhey High's bid. Together with donations from two other businesses and the school's own fundraising efforts it means the target of £50,000 needed to apply for science college status was reached just before the deadline earlier this month.

Headteacher Mr Martin Braidley said: "We reached the target not at the eleventh hour, but eleventh hour and forty-five minutes! Raising the moneywas a real team effort with the whole school and parents taking part along with community organisations and local people and businesses. Without them it just would not have been possible."

The school launched its bid for specialist status in November to mark the school's silver's jubilee. Now the application is in the hands of the Department of Education and Skills, and Mr Braidley is confident that the bid will be successful.

Specialist status will result in the school receiving £129,000 every year for the next four years.

A special dinner, hosted by Ramsbottom Rotary Club, to celebrate the school's 25th anniversary will be held on April 15 in the Frank Bennett Hall.

"The bid is a fantastic way to celebrate the school's 25th year. Specialist status will benefit not only pupils at the school but also the community and businesses through improved educational opportunities.

"We would love everyone especially past pupils to come and join us at the meal and help us celebrate."

Tickets for the meal cost £25. Tickets are available by ringing 01706 82 5215.