A VILLAGE's campaign to replace a 125-year-old school is spreading its message worldwide, as volunteers step up their battle to finance the project.

Ahead of talks to secure Government cash for the £160,000 Grewelthorpe Church of England Primary School, near Ripon, the project will feature on a village website being launched on November 28.

In the past, Grewelthorpe School has faced threats of closure because of falling numbers, but in recent years figures have increased to more than 50, making it overcrowded.

Alison Kerr, secretary of the Community of Grewelthorpe School, set up to fundraise and campaign for the new school, said the website would enable campaigners to give latest details of the scheme to residents.

Campaigners had been hoping to meet North Yorkshire education chief Cynthia Welbourn this week to press claims for a Government grant, having missed out on a plea for a £130,000 award last year, but the meeting has had to be rearranged.

Although there are only about 300 people in the village, fundraising has already generated £10,000.

Governors' chairman Brian Kitching said yesterday that fundraising efforts had been remarkable for such a small community.

"Local people have shown the way, and now we are seeking national support for the project," said Mr Kitching.

The present school is split by 52 outdoor steps, separating the old building from a temporary classroom on the hillside site where the new school - which will also be available for community use - will be built.

The new website will also highlight village organisations and activities, as well as telling the outside world about some of the area's attractions