A Darlington school is hoping to raise £25,000 in two weeks with the help of The Northern Echo.

Longfield School needs to raise the money to support its bid to Government to become a Specialist Sports College.

Pupils and teachers have joined with organisations to raise £25,000, but they must double that amount by March 1 if the school it to bid for its new status. If it is accepted, the Government would provide a £100,000 grant for building works as well as £123 per pupil at the school for the next three years.

If the school then hit Government targets it would be able to obtain more funding.

The money would be used to improve sporting facilities at the school and increase the amount of specialist, professional coaching available to future sport stars.

Any new facilities would also be available for use by the public and sporting groups, including local football team the All Stars, which already use the school's sports fields.

The Northern Echo is supporting the school's bid and will count down the days to the deadline for the money to be raised.

Deputy headteacher Sue Byrne said: "We are desperate to raise the final part of the money. If we don't raise the money we will lose the opportunity to put forward the bid in March.

"That would be a great loss to the people of Darlington."

Former headteacher Dr Bill Ions originally had the idea of Longfield becoming a specialist sports college in February 2000.

Sadly, Dr Ions died that year and the school is now keen to see his plans bear fruition.

Mrs Byrne said: "Longfield is a popular, oversubscribed school and intends to enhance its outstanding sporting reputation to become a centre of excellence."

Some businesses and organisations have already donated money to the school but more is needed.

Anyone who can pledge money before March 1 is asked to contact the school on (1325) 380815 or The Northern Echo on (01325) 505071