A HASLINGDEN firm has proved to be a breath of fresh air for the town’s students.

Camfil Farr, which has its UK head office in Knowsley Road, has provided Haslingden High School with special machinery to improve air quality in its buildings.

The school is using the machine - a CamCleaner 6000 - in its gymnasium, where students have been currently sitting GCSE and A-level exams.

The Swedish-owned company, which employs 195 people at its Haslingden site, claims the technology will lead to ‘improved work performance’.

The firm’s managing director, Bill Wilkinson, said: “Camfil understands the need for better working conditions for both pupils and teachers in schools.

“This is critical, especially during the exam period. We will be working closely with staff from Haslingden High School to gain feedback over the coming months.

“Good indoor air quality in educational facilities reduces absenteeism for students and staff, reduces building deterioration and improves energy efficiency and reduces outside air ventilation requirements.

“It also prevents strained relationships resulting from poor indoor air quality, reduces liabilities, and most importantly, protects students, one of our important investments in the future.”

The school, a specialist arts, maths and computing college, agreed to trial the equipment following talks between its examinations manager, Anne-Marie Rawcliffe, and Camfil representatives in May.

The school’s exams began on May 8 and will conclude on June 26.