There was a real competitive buzz at this year’s Bolton School Spelling Bee. Eight local primary schools sent their two very best Year 5 boys and girls spellers, who amazed the audience with their spelling ability and coolness under pressure.
The 16 contestants were already winners, having won through preliminary rounds in their own schools.
Organiser Miss Tomlinson congratulated all the entrants: “I have been really impressed by how these girls and boys keep their nerve as they perform in front of their parents, teachers and peers.
"Each child was given 150 words to learn, so they have improved their literacy and memory skills whilst revising lots of awkward spellings.
"Once again, I congratulate both them and their teachers in preparing so well!”
In a close contest, Matilda Graham of St Catherine’s Primary School (Horwich) ran out the winner, taking away £25 of Amazon vouchers, whilst second place was tied between Barirah Sheikh of The Ferns Primary Academy and Matthew McKnight, also of St Catherine’s Horwich, who both received £15 of vouchers.
All the Year 5 children were given certificates for participating and a “Make your Mark at Bolton School” pencil.