ENTERPRISING sixth-formers at Malmesbury School are combining their business studies coursework with fundraising for the children's charity Barnardo's.

The nine students, with the help of teachers Cheryl Nield de Crespo and Sheila Harris, have organised a host of activities towards a goal of raising £1,500 for the charity by next April.

Plans and reports on their progress will form part of the coursework for their work towards an A-level in business studies. A business report also has to be sent to Barnardo's with the cash.

"We're really pleased and excited about what is going to happen and will just have to wait and see how the events go," said Gary Smith, 17, from Luckington, who is one of the group's sales managers.

The team have called themselves FEO, standing for Fun Events Organisers, and have planned a series of colourful challenges over the next five months.

Gary says one of the most exciting will be a five-a-side soccer tournament in March. It will take place on pitches close to The Red Bull Inn, near Malmesbury, and the students plan to invite children from across the area to take part.

Other events include a Christmas prom for sixth-formers, a Valentine's dance and a guided tour of Malmesbury School at its old and new sites.

The other students taking part are Ian Church, Andy Baker, Emily Witt, Victoria Rolfe, Tomas Little, Fraser Johns and Jonathan Sharp.