THE hunt is on for a name for a new free school.

Campaigners for a new school at Ingleby Barwick, near Stockton, hope a free school, paid for by taxpayers but out of local authority control, will open in September next year.

The Government has approved the idea and work is ongoing to find a site for the school.

Now the BO2SS (Barwick's Own Second Secondary School) group is looking for a name and a shortlist has been drawn up following suggestions from the public.

Leading candidates are Barwick High School, The Hub, the Three Rivers School and Ingleby Manor School and Sixth Form.

"Things are now moving very quickly, " said Louise Stephens, one of the parents behind the school.

"We are very conscious that parents with children who have just started year six are now starting to think about what secondary school they would like their children to attend.Many parents have been asking how they can apply to the free school, and we are in the process of setting up an consultation evening for parents of prospective students.

"Naming the school is an exciting step towards making the school a reality, and our free school is all about being part of the community and for the community. That's why we'd like to hear from asmany people as possible before we select our school name."

Plans to build a purposebuilt school have been linked with a proposal to build 250 homes on land off Low Lane.

To vote for a name, visit inglebybo2ss.co.uk