PUPILS at a Blackpool school have talked their way to the top in a local competition.

A ten-strong team of year ten students from Bispham High School on Bispham Road beat eight other Fylde schools in a languages competition on Friday.

All the teams gave a presentation in their chosen language about a local company, watched by the other teams, and judges Reg Chapman, college principal and chief executive, and special guest MEP Jacqueline Foster.

Bispham High School were the delighted winners, with their German presentation on BAe Systems beating entries from Baines, Beacon Hill, Collegiate, Fleetwood, Highfield, Millfield, Palatine and St Mary's High schools.

Bispham High School teacher Joanna Rose said: "The pupils have really enjoyed themselves and have worked really hard with such enthusiasm."

Pupil Kirsty Oldroyd added: "Everyone had a fun day. It was interesting to do a project in another language, we would all love to come and do it again."

The event was organised by Blackpool and The Fylde College to celebrate the European Year of Languages.

MEP Jacqueline Foster told the youngsters: "I am delighted to have been asked to come today. Languages are so important, and young people should enjoy learning languages."

Her views were echoed by Reg Chapman, who added that if plans for new resort hotels went ahead, youngsters would increasingly need language skills.

A college spokesman said: "Due to the enthusiasm and hard work of the pupils and teachers involved the event was a real success and may become an annual event.