Pupils from state schools in Birmingham and Northampton were invited to take a close look at Christ Church - in the hope that they will apply to the Oxford college in future.

More than 60 pupils from nine state schools visited the college yesterday and today to take part in a programme of activities, with the aim of broadening their interest in higher education.

Admissions staff denied that the open days had anything to do with 18-year-old Laura Spence being refused a place at Magdalen College this year.