FOUR Chorley schools have been included on a 'Good Schools' list compiled by OFSTED inspectors.

Southlands High, Parklands High, Rivington Voluntary Aided Primary and St George's CE Primary have been singled out for praise.

Brindle St James' CE Voluntary Aided Primary School is also celebrating after being commended by inspectors and being taken off the 'special measures' list.

David Bell, chief inspector of schools, was due to present his annual report on Standards and Quality in Education to Parliament today (Wednesday).

The four schools have been named as having outstanding inspection reports along with 14 other Lancashire schools.

Hugh Crossan, headteacher at Southlands, Clover Road, said: "The report is particularly pleasing and one in which we should all take great pride, as only a small proportion of schools nationally are included in the list of particularly successful schools.

"I would like to offer special thanks and congratulations to our pupils and staff who have worked together as a team to produce such a good report.

"We will however not sit back and rest on our laurels, as we aim to ensure that each inspection report is better than the previous one."

Mr Bell said: "I believe these success stories are a testament to both the talent and dedication of the staff who work in these schools and colleges and the pupils themselves."

St James' was turned around in only 14 months after being classed as 'failing' in March 2001.

Headteacher Valerie Walsh said: "Our school was removed from special measures through the efforts of the staff, governors and children. OFSTED were impressed by the quality of teaching and planning and removed the school from special measures in record time.

"It is a magnificent achievement and the school is now looking forward to a bright future.

"We have plans for a new school hall to be built in the next 12 months to provide much needed facilities for dance and drama."