STUDENTS have been given a taste of Greek culture as part of a topical summer learning project.

More than 40 year nine pupils from Hartlepool's six secondary schools took part in a Greek language lesson and Greek food tasting session at Hartlepool Education Development Centre.

It was part of a three-month project called the Olympic Summer School, funded by the government's Excellence in Cities Gifted and Talented initiative to develop the learning and creativity of young people.

Since the beginning of May, the students, aged 13 and 14, have been studying the Greek language and culture, and on July 11 they will leave for a fortnight's study tour of Greece, including visits to Athens, Olympia, Hydra, Spetses and Corinth.

They will also research and write a project on an aspect of Greek culture, which they will present before parents, teachers and other guests during an event at the City Learning Centre, in Hartlepool, in September.

Karen Adams, co-ordinator for the Gifted and Talented initiative in Hartlepool, said: "With the Olympics taking place in Athens this year, we felt it was an excellent idea for the young people to explore the rich heritage and cultural legacy of Greece and the Olympics.

"The project will help the students strengthen their ability to carry out their own independent research and will further strengthen their communication skills."