UFO studies could soon be on the timetable for local schoolchildren if researchers on the subject have their way.

Tim Mathews from Lancaster UFO Network (LUFON) has already visited schools around the country holding talks on alien life and spacecraft.

Now he aims to canvas schools and colleges in the Lancaster area for their views on including the lectures in General Studies A level classes.

He said: "We have just formed a UFO educational trust and, after advertising in a magazine, found that loads of teachers were interested.

"There's an aura of ridicule surrounding this subject so we want to dispel those prejudices early on - getting into schools is one of the most important things we can do."

Most recently the group visited Cardiff where they presented lectures to Venture Scouts as well as schoolchildren.

He added: "We realise people might say we are trying to corrupt their children's minds."

But he stressed that pupils would be left to make up their own minds after being presented with the evidence.

This would include footage of unidentified flying objects, photographs of things seen hovering above Morecambe Bay and accounts by witnesses.

"We stick to the facts," explained Tim, "We don't talk about what planets aliens come from."

For further information about the lectures or LUFON call Tim on (01524) 381520.

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