HUNDREDS of pupils attended Bury FC's match at Gigg Lane on Saturday for being a class act.

They had all scored a 100 per cent attendance record at their schools, and were presented with special medals before the Shakers' game against Lincoln.

Making the presentations was award-winning young actor Sam Aston, who plays Chesney in Coronation Street. Also handing out the medals was Bury South MP Ivan Lewis and the Mayor and Mayoress of Bury, Councillor Steve Treadgold and his wife Jean.

No fewer than 1,200 children in the borough attained this "gold standard" by not missing a single half-day out of the 380 possible.

Councillor Maggie Gibb, executive member for children and young people, said: "That is quite some achievement and our congratulations go out to every single one of them."

Mr Alan Cogswell, Bury's social inclusion services manager, said the support of parents was crucial to the pupils' success.

"Regular attendance at school is necessary if pupils are to achieve their full potential," he said. "We know that good attendance leads to improved educational outcomes for children and young people. It is important that we give them the best possible start in life and by supporting their attendance at school and participation in school events we promote their future well-being."