A UKRAINIAN student has been on an exchange visit to Bacup -- thanks to the local Rotary club.

Sixteen-year-old Marina Tsepko has spent the last six weeks studying at Bacup and Rawtenstall Grammar School.

The visit was arranged by Bruce Harris who works as a business adviser in the Ukraine with Marina's father who is also a Rotary member.

The International Rotary Youth Exchange scheme allows young people to learn about language and cultures of other countries.

Bruce of Hazel Grove, Bacup, said: "The future of International relations depends on young people being exposed to each others countries and I was pleased to have been part of the programme."

Marina has been go karting, ice skating, shopping, ten-pin bowling and skiing. She has also visited Skipton, Blackpool, Harrogate, Halifax and The Lowry Centre in Salford. She said; "I have thoroughly enjoyed myself."

Nick Stratton, Bacup Rotary president, said: "We enjoyed having Marina here.

"We bought her a cut glass trinket engraved with the Rossendale Coat of Arms to take home with her and she gave us a Ukrainian basket.

"The Rotary Club would also like to thank Liz and Bruce Harris for hosting Marina on our behalf."