A FARNWORTH primary school has received a £60,000 grant to install solar roof panels.

Queensbridge Primary School in St Germain Street, will soon be using environment-friendly solar power as part of its energy supply after receiving Government funds to get the scheme up and running.

The school is planning to install one or two panels initially over the summer holiday and then develop the project from there.

Plans are also being considered to install a wind turbine in the school fields to provide a further source of environment-friendly energy.

A Bolton Council spokesman said: "The project has the potential to save on running costs, but the main purpose is the environmental benefits of using renewable energy and the educational aspect."

Queensbridge is a £2.5 million newly-built school which opened shortly before Easter. It is an amalgamation of Queen Street Primary and Bridgewater Nursery.

It was specifically designed with a south facing roof slope to maximise its potential for solar energy.

This project will be the first large renewable energy project undertaken by Bolton Council which is keen to advocate sustainable energy and has ambitious targets of a 20 per cent reduction in carbon emissions by 2005 compared to 1998 levels.

The system will be used in curriculum activities, and visits from other schools in the area will be encouraged.

Headteacher Sheila Holland said: "Basically, we are bringing the school into the 21st century.

"This will be a brilliant way for the youngsters to learn about renewable energy."

Queensbridge already has a host of hi-tech systems.

It has underfloor heating, light sensors that turn lights on and off when people walk into a room, an air exchange system and low energy lighting.