SCHOOL pupils are preparing to spend the summer visiting one of the most inhospitable places in the world.

A group of students from Framwellgate School, in Durham City, are to take part in a "wet and dry" scientific expedition to the Sinai peninsula in Egypt.

They will be helping academics from several universities, including Durham University, who for a number of years have been working on wildlife conservation projects, through the international scientific project Operation Wallacea.

Their work will take them to the parched expanses of the Sinai Desert, and the underwater coral reefs of the Ras Mohammed National Park.

But before they can take part in the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, they have to raise £40,000 to cover travel, accommodation and equipment hire expenses.

The youngsters have raised more than £27,000 by arranging a wide variety of fundraising events, and the next is a concert at the school on Wednesday, February 15, involving the school band and Durham Constabulary Brass Band.

Yesterday, Councillor Don Ross, deputy leader of Durham County Council, visited the school to hand over £1,000 to help them on their way.

Coun Ross said: "The young people will be helping to conduct some very valuable work on the biodiversity of flora and fauna in the area, often in difficult and inhospitable conditions.

"Their efforts deserve our support and recognition, and we wish them well."

Biology teacher Andy Gargett who, with his science department colleague Caroline Shearing, is organising the trip, said: "The fundraising is proving a real collaborative effort between the students involved and their parents, whose support has been invaluable.

"We are delighted that the council is also recognising the real importance of the work they'll be doing."