A GROUP of teachers and parents from a Redbourn school have been chosen to play an prominent part in the Paralympic torch relay.

Assistant headteacher of St Luke's Special School Debbie Bloomfield along with the Friends of St Luke's, a PTA group, have been chosen to carry the Paralympic flame later this year.

Abby Fermont nominated the parents' group, which also includes Jane Carden , who is a teacher at the school, Ros Wood, Shirley Baton and Aileen Mead.

After hearing the good news Abby said: "The nomination asked for a positive story and our story was that over the last three years the Friends of St Luke's has raised more than £48,000 for the school.

"This has helped the school create sensory teaching room and recently we have been able to buy £20,000 worth of playground equipment."

She added: "We're so excited and a bit nervous as well about the costumes they will send us to wear. This is massive for us, I never thought when I applied we would actually get chosen."

Assistant headteacher Debbie Bloomfield also spoke of her delight at being chosen to take part in the Paralympic torch relay.

She added: "I'm really excited that we're taking part. We feel it's such a unique event and it's fantastic to be a part of it."

Debbie said the school has planned a number of Olympic themed events, including the pupil's involvement in this weekend's Harpenden Carnival parade in an Olympic walking float.

The whole school will also be going to the Paralympic Games.

The St Luke's Group will be among 332 people who will carry the flame from Stoke Mandeville to the Olympic stadium for the opening ceremony on Wednesday, August 29.