ST Augustine's Catholic High School is near to reaching the £50,000 target it needs to become a specialist science school and is now making an 11th-hour plea for business support.

Parents and businesses have already given generously and frantic fundraising has reaped thousands but the school only has until the beginning of March to raise about £6,000 or it cannot submit its bid.

Bid co-ordinator and assistant principal Paul Farr said: "Everyone has worked so hard to make this bid become a reality.

''We've held an auction which raised £3,500, a Christmas raffle, non-uniform days, bag packs and a sponsored walk involving the whole school.

"We were also given £5,000 by the Ogden Trust, which is committed to encouraging and promoting the teaching of science, £5,000 each from two businesses and parental contributions have been wonderful.

"People have given so generously and worked so hard for us but we desperately need to raise this last few thousand or everybody's commitment will have been in vain."

This week, the school's draft bid will be looked at and any changes needed will be made over the next few weeks before it is finally submitted.

Businesses or individuals who would like to support the school by making a contribution or holding a fundraising event can call Mr Farr on 550400.