SCHOOLGIRLS looking to be good citizens have organised a fashion and talent show to raise money for breast cancer research.

Beckie Belcher and Emma Bromley, both 14 and pupils at Banbury School, staged the event on Wednesday of last week in front of an audience of parents and fellow pupils. The event raised £210 for the charity.

The project was part of the school's citizenship course - a new addition to the curriculum that teaches young people the value of helping others.

Tracy Lucas, the school's head of humanities, said: "The Government wants pupils to work in the community. Different groups of students have chosen different projects.

"Beckie and Emma decided on this and they have worked hard to make it a success.

"They have been knocking on doors around town asking shops to donate clothes for the fashion parade and prizes for the raffle.

"It is part of the GCSE curriculum and Year Ten pupils will sit a citizenship exam later this year.

"There will be questions on human rights, why it is important to have a vote, and why people should become involved in community work."

Rita Kimberger, the school's citizenship teacher, said: "Other projects organised by the pupils include working with Age Concern and the RSPCA.

"It is good that these young people are doing something to help others."

Beckie and Emma said: "We wanted to help breast cancer research with an event we could both enjoy. It was great to do it as part of our citizenship course."

The girls will be organising another fashion event in Banbury town hall in November.