STAFF at a school are preparing to be spooked at a haunted hotel to raise funds for its bid for specialist status.

Secretary Emma Honeyman, from Huntcliff School, Saltburn, has organised the stay at the Schooner Inn in Alnmouth, Northumberland.

The seven members of staff will be taken on a guided tour of the hotel, twice voted the most haunted in England, before being left alone in a room.

The group hopes to raise cash for specialist school status, which has a target of £50,000.

The stay is booked for Friday, February 25, paid for by the hotel owners in aid of the cause.

Ms Honeyman said: "It's going to be a scary experience but it will help us raise vital cash which Huntcliff needs for specialist status."

Members of the public can challenge the six secretaries and one technician to a spooky task.

MS Honeyman said: "It is just £1 to add a challenge and, if we don't complete it, we will pay the £1 ourselves. We are prepared for anything, including things like standing in a room alone for a specified time."

Also taking part will be secretaries Helen Turner, Janice Barnet, Debbie Dixon, Nicola Doddy, and Anne Ing, and school technician Richard Stabler.

To set a challenge for the group, contact (01287) 622178.