STUDENTS from Ivy Bank High School, Burnley, spent a day being coached by Sgt Kelly Holmes, the British Olympic gold medal hope for 800 and 1500m.

Along with five other School Challenger groups, the Ivy Bank pupils were given special tips at the Army School of Physical Training, York, for a number of events including hurdles, long jump, shot putt, sprints and disc.

Team leader and teacher, Damian Juriansz, said: "Our team have learnt many of the finer points surrounding athletics which we may not include in our lessons at school.

"They have also had the opportunity to use equipment that we do not have at school, such as hurdles and the cage for discus throwing.''

He added: "The Army coaches have done a great job keeping the students interested and Kelly Holmes is really good.'' Kelly commented: "I am definitely going to watch out, some of the kids were looking really good. Hopefully we have motivated them to go on bigger and better things.''

Schools Challenger is the Army's action packed initiative which aims to provide exciting and adventurous activities for pupils aged 11 to 14.

All schools across the country are invited to enrol with teams of ten pupils and a team leader.

Membership costs £40 in return for which each member will received a School Challenger kit.

For further information on how to join contact School Challenger, PO Box 934, Poole, Dorset, BH17 7BR. Tel. 01202 666505.

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