CHARITABLE schools in York and North and East Yorkshire are being encouraged to take part in a new celebration of giving.

And they could win £1,000 by doing so.

Giving Week, which takes place from June 23 to 27, has been organised to celebrate the charitable work done by young people.

Secondary schools who have organised something particularly impressive can tell the organisers about their activities, with the chance of winning one of 12 cash prizes. The overall winning school will be able to send a group of pupils to see a British Red Cross charity project in action overseas.

The concept, named Giving Nation, is designed to inspire and encourage schools to do more for their communities and recognise the value of charitable activities.

For more information and to enter for an award visit the website www.g-nation.co.uk/teachers or phone Carolyn Holcroft on 0207 930 3154.

Updated: 11:03 Tuesday, May 06, 2003