Residents and traders in Wallingford are being urged to back the town's secondary school in its bid to attract £1m of Government funding.

Wallingford School is applying for specialist status as a Sports College and needs to raise £50,000 by the end of September.

If it finds the cash, the Government will pay £20 for every £1 raised -- netting the school £1m.

Headteacher Jerry Owens said the money would result in a better school with more involvement in community activities.

Employers, including Rowse Honey and Pettits department store, have made donations.

Dry cleaning firm Thames Valet has also contributed and will donate five per cent of its takings from people who present its School Supporters Card.

Businessman and sports coach Tom Jeffrey is heading the fundraising effort. He said: "This bid won't make Wallingford School focus solely on sport -- the money will be used to improve things across the curriculum.

"The community is vital in this attempt to get specialist status. Local groups, especially those with sporting interests, are invited to take part."

Consultation meetings will take place on Tuesday, June 3, from 1pm to 2pm at Wallingford Sports Trust, on the Hithercroft, and Wednesday, June 4, from 7pm to 9pm at the school's Sixth Form Centre. Call 01491 833852 or 01491 837115 for details.