Lack of interest spells the end for Darwen schools contest (From Lancashire Telegraph)

Lack of interest spells the end for Darwen schools contest

12:46pm Thursday 7th February 2013 in News

AN annual spelling competition for Darwen Primary Schools has come to an end after eight years.

Journalist Harold Heys, who launched the contest with financial support from Darwen Rotary Club, said he was disappointed that last year’s entry had dropped to just eight teams. He said: “We used to count on 11 or 12. One or two schools lost interest a few years ago but a couple of regulars dropped out last summer.”

“I don't know of any other towns in East Lancashire which have such a competition and closure is a pity. Spelling, generally, in primary schools is appalling. It is not much better in secondary schools.

“I hope that over the past eight years the competition has helped to point at least some children in the right direction. They all seemed to enjoy the challenge.”

Four individual trophies were awarded each year plus the championship trophy and £50 for the winning school.

Last year’s winners, Sudell Primary School, will keep the trophy.