THE principal of an independent school warned against the dangers of the overuse of technology during her prize-giving speech.

Muriel Ashcroft, principal of Moorland School, Clitheroe, said the overuse of computers was threatening family values and national identities.

She said: "It is important that computers do not replace books. One cannot stress enough the value of reading and at Moorland we encourage pupils to read as much as possible while also making use of new technology."

She praised pupils and staff for excellent GCSE results, with 83 per cent of pupils gaining five or more passes at Grade A to C.

"Our head girl, Philippa Kettlewell, who has attended Moorland School since the nursery, achieved a record 11 Grade A passes and we have many more success stories where pupils have reached their full potential," she said.

"This truly reflects the dedication of our teaching staff. Moorland is not selective in the academic sense, which makes these results all the more gratifying."

Mrs Ashcroft also praised pupils for raising cash for worthy causes from a sponsored walk and Red Nose Day.

The pupils had presented £500 to the Clitheroe Heart Machine Fund and Ribble Valley Crossroads Carers.

"I am well aware that in a school such as Moorland to provide stimulating activities for our young people requires much effort and I do appreciate the commitment and dedication of all Moorland staff, both teaching and non-teaching. I thank staff and parents for their support and loyalty," she added.

Ultraframe magnate John Lancaster presented the prizes.

The event was also attended by Mrs Rosemary Lancaster, Ribble Valley Mayor and Mayoress Brian and Pat Collis, and Clitheroe Mayor and Mayoress Alan and Susan Yearing.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.