A BLACKPOOL team of computer whizzkids were pipped to the post at a national awards ceremony.

A group of seven pupils from Palatine High School attended the Tesco Our School Awards 2001 at the London Aquarium after being selected as national finalists for the Tesco Computers for Schools category.

The St Annes Road school students, aged 12-16-years-old, were named regional winners and national runners-up after they spent their spare time writing a website for the Blackpool, Fylde and Wyre Society for the Blind.

But they were beaten to the number one spot by 16-year-old Michelle Bunyard of Princes Risborough, Buckinghamshire who created a self-help website for children being bullied and suffering depression.

Despite just missing out, the Palatine pupils were named among the top three regional winners and got to meet chart-toppers S Club 7 who made a special appearance at the awards.

Palatine High School spokesman Frank Shipway said the group was far from disappointed. "To come second in a national competition like that against the whole country was a worthy achievement," he said.

"The students had a superb time, the hospitality from Tesco was brilliant and the occasion itself was absolutely breathtaking."

The ceremony was co-hosted by Tesco plc managing director Tim Mason and celebrity DJ Dr Fox. The pupils were presented with a digital camera and 2500 Tesco Computers for Schools vouchers as well as £100 worth of gift vouchers for the pupils.

Dr Fox said: "The Tesco Our Schools Awards highlight and pay tribute to an incredible range of talent that the young people in the UK represent. That is exactly the reason why I am extremely proud to be associated with them."

Mr Mason said: "These award are all about recognising school children across the UK who have helped others either in their school or community.

"This year's ceremony has been a fantastic success and we are delighted to be involved with such deserving young people."

And the Palatine website is being featured as a case study on a new BBC website dedicated to citizenship. Log on to www.bbc.co.uk/schools/getinvolved for more details.