TOP marks went to two schools in a boroughwide awards scheme for making everyone welcome.

As winners of the Bury Inclusion Awards, Whitefield Primary School and Prestwich High School go on to a North West competition.

Council staff looked at the steps taken by schools to remove barriers for the disabled.

Twelve schools from across the borough entered, and each received high praise from judges.

Efforts have included building wheelchair ramps, modifying furniture, fitting sound equipment for the deaf and installing toilets and lifts for the disabled.

Changes aimed directly at pupils involve provision of Braille books for the visually impaired, and use of support assistants to help those with learning difficulties.

Both winning schools will receive £500 and were entered for the North West Inclusion Award at Blackpool Football Club on July 8.

Harold Williams, Bury Council's director of education, said: "Judging the entries was extremely difficult and the panel felt that because the quality of entries was so high each of the schools should be commended.

"The initiatives were so impressive that we are aiming to share their good practice in a guide for all Bury schools."