A HIGH school is celebrating after claiming first and second place in an inter-schools reading competition.

Westleigh High School in Leigh dominated the seven-team Big Book Quiz last Wednesday night.

They were competing against Wigan schools Byrchall High and Hawkley Hall High in the competition which aims to encourage children to read for their own enjoyment.

Students' knowledge of four set books was tested with a series of questions.

Westleigh High School librarian Samantha Reece said: “The three teams we entered all conducted themselves exceptionally well.

“The students, who read the books in their own time, have proved that reading can be fun and competitive and their enthusiasm and commitment were clear to see, creating an atmosphere that was truly inspirational.”

Westleigh's assistant head of English Miss Carr was quiz mistress for the evening and assistant head teacher Mr Harrison handed out prizes and certificates at the end.

Student leaders at the Westleigh Lane school Callum Aldred, Alicia Pollitt, Louise Rowe, Keira McGowan and Ellie Gunning assisting throughout the event.

Westleigh High pupils kept the audience entertained during the marking process by performing a scene from Roald Dahl’s The Witches.

The winning team, named The Readaholics, was made up of year eight pupils Ellie Blood, Kiera Martin, Jessica Barker and Tyler-Owen Jones.