A GROUP of primary pupils pupils is among the first in the North East to try a tasty way of improving classroom skills.

Loftus Junior School has chosen 34 youngsters to test a fruit flavoured fish-oil supplement - eye q smooth - every day for three months.

Headteacher Dave Parkes said: "All the children are enjoying taking it and, although it's too early to say how positive the results will be, research has shown there is an impact for the majority of children.

"I first became aware of the benefits when a child who had attention problems in the classroom started taking supplements and over a period of time it had a great impact on her ability to concentrate, her memory and she achieved really well."

The fish-oil trial has the backing of Redcar and Cleveand Council.

It has been brought into the borough through a link with Sue Harrison, team leader of the council's In School Support Service.

She said: "Recent research showed this product has improved a range of skills for pupils, including better concentration, co-ordination and memory.

"We're happy to trial it and we hope it will bring positive results. Whatever happens, the children seem to like it."