LONELY schoolchildren are to be offered the hand of friendship by fellow pupils after the launch of "buddy" benches.

Trained buddies will approach a child who sits on buddy benches and invite them to play games.

The project is being pioneered at Blackrod Primary School after pupils came up with the idea in a bid to tackle feelings of loneliness.

The buddies have been trained by deputy headteacher and project co-ordinator Louise Minton.

The school has installed two buddy benches in the infant and junior playgrounds after they were donated by Horwich businessman Vince Russell.

Headteacher Ian Dryburgh hopes the benches will be a success and give students the chance to express their worries to their peers.

Mr Dryburgh said: "Although some children may not have any problems academically, they may suffer anxieties, feel left out or not have many friends.

"We want the school to be an inclusive environment and we are confident this is a perfect way to tackle the issue sensitively."

Around eight pupils from Years 5 and 6 have spent the last few weeks training to become buddies. All wear a badge and give up their time to help lonely pupils.

Mr Dryburgh said: "The students taking part as buddies will learn how to be responsible. They cannot simply say "I don't want to be a buddy today" - they have to be available all the time."

Anti-bullying group Bully Free Zone welcomed the idea.

Pete Kobryn, co-ordinator for the Bolton helpline, said: "Buddy benches really contribute to addressing feelings of loneliness and bullying in schools."

Cllr Carole Swarbrick, Bolton Council's executive member for education, said: "I think this is an excellent idea. Anything that helps children to be happy at school should be welcomed."