A TEACHER from Darlington is heading for Iceland after winning an environmental award.

Alison Raw, from Red Hall Primary School, is taking up the opportunity to be involved in a challenging experience with the Earthwatch charity.

She will be assisting scientists from the charity's Icelandic Glaciers project, who are studying the effects of "jokulhlaups", the floods that occur when a volcano erupts under an ice cap and melts the ice.

From 1996 to 2001, the jokulhlaups have had devastating effects on the surrounding area, leading to millions of pounds worth of damage.

Ms Raw will involve taking samples from glaciers and surveying landforms.

The data she gathers will be used to increase understanding of the evolution of Iceland's landscape.

This, in turn, will help to make roads and bridges safer for the public.

Ms Raw will leave for Iceland on July 28 after winning a 3M Environmental Award.

The awards, now in their tenth year, are presented to teachers working or living near 3M sites.

Teachers are chosen according to their ability to take what they have learned back to their schools and communities.

The key part of the award is being able to share the experience with others.

When she returns, Ms Raw will draw up a personal action plan to enable her to use her new-found skills and knowledge.

"When I get back, I plan to promote conservation through actively involving children at Red Hall Primary School in local projects," she said.

"This will provide them with the chance to develop their own skills through 'hands-on' experience."