Science students set to send teacher soaring

Is it a bird? Is it a plane? No, it's a Westergate science teacher. That's the response Alison Leslie hopes to attract when she flies off Bognor Regis pier as a Birdman entrant this year.

Miss Leslie has enlisted her science club members at Westergate Community School to design and build a craft which will enable her to swoop above the waves on September 1 and 2.

Visions of the 25,000 jackpot for achieving 100m of flight have spurred on the 15 students in their designing.

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They chose 13-year-old Fleur Gribble as the best designer for her personal glider model.

Miss Leslie said: 'Each member of the science club is responsible for one aspect of the challenge, either managing other students, fund raising, or building or painting the flying machine.

'The Birdman contest gives the students an excellent opportunity to work as a team to see a project right through from beginning to end.'

Making a flying machine, rather than one which will plummet into the sea, has become more of a challenge than she expected. But she is still confident she will soar like an eagle on the big day.

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The students are using their work to raise funds for the Chestnut Tree House children's hospice in Arundel.

Their entry is in the Leonardo Da Vinci class for inventive designs. Miss Leslie hopes to take part on both days.

She will be joined on the take-off ramp by Bognor Regis Community College teacher Andrea Coleman and some of her colleagues.

Having gained her wings in 2003, Mrs Coleman has been waiting for a chance to stage a repeat. This year is that moment.

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Eight teachers at the college have put their names forward to take part. Places for only two exist for the flying. The winners will be chosen by the students putting money on the person they would like to see take part. All funds raised will go to the Chestnut Tree Hospice as well, as chosen by the students.

The college's younger students have designed costumes for the entries '“ Wasteful Wally and Eco Warrior. These will be enhanced by recycled materials found by 15 and 16-year-old pupils, while those a year younger made the costumes during their enterprise week.

Mrs Coleman said: 'Even though it might not be me on the platform, I am looking forward to having a flying start to the new term.'

A total of 33 entries will ensure 2007 Bognor Birdman enjoys another bumper turnout.

Five of those due to take part come from around Bognor. Three are travelling from overseas '“ Holland, the USA and Bulgaria.