A SCHOOL project to build a fully operational biplane is closer to take off after the donation of a £12,000 engine.

The 92 horsepower motor was made in Belgium by D-Motor and given to Goole High School for their Spirit Of Goole project.

Project manager and former RAF pilot Jack Milnes contacted the company about the scheme, which has already seen a 10,000- part fuselage built by students and volunteers.

Jack said: “The donation of the engine is absolutely stunning news. It represents a quarter of the project costs so it is a real boost.

The kids are really excited.”

The engine will be shipped over in June. The wings have already been ordered, but the project needs more funding to ensure it is completed to offer reduced-cost flying lessons to students and the public at Breighton Airfield.

Jack said: “We still need £15,000, then another £10,000 to £12,000 for two years of running costs.

Any company or individual who donates £50 or more to the project will be given an advertising slot on the aircraft as part of a Name on the Plane scheme.”