A NEW education initiative in Preston has been given a kick-start by BNFL.

BNFL's UK Fuel Operations, at Springfields, donated £5,000 to the Preston Education Action Zone, launched at the beginning of February.

The zone consists of a group of schools working in partnership with parents, businesses, the local education authority and community organisations working to raise standards in schools.

The group, which covers the areas of Avenham, Deepdale and Ribbleton, also works to enhance the development of students by improving their opportunities and experiences.

Springfields' community relations manager Steve Whitehead said: "As part of our commitment, we have also promised a further £5,000 support in kind, such as head teacher mentoring and provision of surplus equipment."

Via the Business in the Community scheme, the Zone aims to raise more than £750,000 of business support which the government will match £1 for £1.