POVERTY hit communities in developing countries will enjoy clean drinking water thanks to the efforts of secondary school students.

Pupils at Teesdale School, Barnard Castle, raised £355 for the town's Rotary Club in support of a project to provide water filters for villages in Africa.

The money was raised through donations during a non-uniform day.

Accepting the funds, Barnard Castle Rotary Club president Chrissie Michaels told pupils the money would pay for at least 20 water filters, each of which could be used by an extended family.

She also encouraged students to consider setting up a Rotary Interact club in the school which would be run by pupils and support local and international projects chosen by the youngsters.

Co-principal Simon Maguire said this would be a fantastic opportunity for students to develop their leadership skills.

Rotary peace scholar Sang Luaia is visiting the school on Friday, January 24, and will give a talk between 6pm and 7pm on his work with the United Nations Commissioner for Refugees.

Admission is free. All staff, students and members of the public are welcome. To reserve a place, contact Teesdale School.