A SCHOOL'S bid for specialist status has received a boost from a former pupil.

Hurworth Comprehensive School, near Darlington, is hoping to become a mathematics and computing college and needs to raise £50,000 by the end of the month to support its bid.

The school is nearing its target, but its latest gift was from an unexpected source.

Philip Davidson, who left the school in 1981, heard about the appeal through The Northern Echo and decided to donate £500.

Mr Davidson, who lives in Surrey, studied computer science and accounting at Manchester University before joining the accounting firm KPMG, where he is now managing partner of the restructuring practice, advising large companies.

In a letter to the school he said: "My five years at Hurworth undoubtedly provided me with a firm foundation for my career and I remain indebted to the school and the teachers. Good luck with the bid."

School spokeswoman Rita Rees said: "This came right out of the blue as a result of articles in The Northern Echo. It is brilliant."