AN American dream became reality for two Lytham youngsters who flew to California this summer.

King Edward VII and Queen Mary students James Green and Andrew Hookham, both 18, travelled to San Francisco three weeks after finishing their A levels, to stay with one of the school's old boys, Geoff Darby.

During their stay, they lived with Geoff's family at Menlo Park in Silicon Valley, home of the computer industry. They also met several American business consultants, and enjoyed a break with Geoff and his family at their Crystal Cove holiday home on the Pacific coast.

Andrew, of Forest Park, Lytham, said: "It was a great experience and we both learned a great deal about the computer industry and the American way of life."

School principal Julian Wilde said: "Mr Darby was very keen to make the places available to two students who were about to go to university. He asked us to select students who were particularly keen on information technology."

James and Andrew were picked after a selection process including interviews. And Mr Wilde described Mr Darby's invitation as "a fantastic gesture" as the former King Edward student had paid for the youngsters' air fares and accommodation.

University now beckons James and Andrew. James will study computer science and mathematics at St Hugh's College, Oxford, and Andew will study economics at Edinburgh University.