YOUNG Spanish students will be experiencing life in a Bolton school ­— and are hoping local families will open up their homes to give them a taste of Lancashire hospitality.

Sixty Spanish boys and girls, aged 11-17-years-old are travelling over from this June as part of a growing exchange programme which is proving to be a culturally and educationally enriching experience.

Haydn Royle, who lives in Ainsworth, is now looking for families to which to place the children with.

“Many of our local school age boys and girls have forged friendships for life and are inviting their Spanish buddies back for the third or fourth consecutive year,” said Haydn, “Each year many of our British students welcome the chance to trade the gloomy North West for blue skies, beaches and paella on a return trip to stay with their Spanish buddies and their families.

He added:”This year’s Spanish students include keen footballers and sport enthusiasts, musicians, linguists and members of the Spanish Scout and Guide movements whilst others enjoy gaming or shopping.”

And in one case he matched a student who helped Bolton Futsal Club win a final, with the Spanish student scoring the winning hatrick.

As Spanish students use the visit to improve their English language, young people in Bolton can work on their Spanish.

“All Spanish students are looking for British pals from families with whom they can experience local life, and it is culturally and educationally enriching. Families who have a child learning Spanish, there is no better way to practice than with a native speaker.” said Haydn, “The Spanish boys and girls will be hosted with local families and will attend school for the last few weeks of the summer term.”

Schools they have visited include Sharples High School, Canon Slade and Turton School, with school’s benefitting from a payment through the programme.

Families receive “a substantial expense allowance”. Students complete their stay with a meal.

Families who can help should ring 07836 346 290 or email haydn@languagelinkintl.com