STUDENTS are to take part in an arson investigation as part of an award-winning science project.

Youngsters at Westhoughton High School will join the fire brigade to look into various scientific techniques involved with investigating an arson attack or accidental fire.

The project is the idea of teacher Adrian Waltho, who has been crowned the winner of a national competition, Inspiration Challenger, for his innovative idea.

The school has been awarded £2,500 to carry out the project.

Mr Waltho, who has worked at the school for 26 years, said: "I intend for the project to involve the use of various scientific techniques that can't be carried out in a school lab and hope that it will give my students the opportunity to learn more about abstract concepts such as the science behind combustion."

The Inspiration Challenge was launched for the first time in March this year by education publisher Heinemann.

Teachers were invited to design an inspirational project for pupils and the competition attracted 330 entries at Secondary level, and an additional 67 at further education level, for which there is a separate award.

Chris Powley, Sales & Marketing Director of Heinemann Secondary and Further Education, said: "Adrian's entry showed a truly inspirational yet grounded use of the prize money. His explanation of how he would carry out the project with his students and local fire service showed a well thought through idea that related directly back to their studies.

"The judging panel had a tough job to do, but all agreed that Adrian's entry was new and different and could directly impact on the lives of his students."