A GROUP of pupils could be jetting off to South Africa after reaching the final of a regional competition.

The year, eight children from Eastbourne Comprehensive School have taken part in Northumbrian Water's Square Mile Project.

The regional initiative, which was set up by Durham Agency Against Crime, encouraged children to develop a community project to help others.

More than 100 groups entered the competition, and the Eastbourne School team were chosen to take part in the final at Hardwick Hall, Sedgefield, on July 17.

Lauren Coglan, Katie Watson, Lisa Jenkinson, Diane Scott and Jamie Scaife make up the Eastbourne team, which has been engaged in projects to help the elderly.

They have gone into elderly people's homes to help with washing up, cleaning and gardening.

Teacher Jon Tait said: "This type of help has given the group real satisfaction and they are committed to carrying on the work of the project long after the competition is finished."

The team will have to give a presentation on their project in front of a group of judges at the final.

The winners will go on a trip of a lifetime to South Africa. The runners-up will go on an activity holiday in Kielder.