THE opening ceremony for a new Polish Saturday school went down a storm as over 100 people packed in to watch.

The school, which is due to open tomorrow morning at Sacred Heart Primary School in Church, has 42 pupils enrolled.

Headteacher Marta Kiedrowicz conducted a ceremony overflowing with Polish culture, which included children modelling traditional Polish costumes while entertaining the crowd with Polish songs.

The event took place on Saturday and raised over £180 by selling postcards and Polish cakes.

Marta said: "It was absolutely beautiful. We attracted far more people than we thought possible and we hope the school will continue to grow.

"The day allowed myself and the other volunteer teachers to meet the pupils and parents and explain the services we are offering."

The school aims to teach children of Hyndburn's growing Polish community the customs and traditions of their homeland.

But it needs help with funding as all its staff are volunteers.

Marta said: "We need to raise at least £5,000 so we can buy equipment. Hopefully local businesses will come forward with donations to try and help us get on our feet and our cake and postcard sales will continue to do well."

l Firefighters in Hyndburn have been issued with a Polish phrase card to help them develop a better relationship with the Polish community.

It includes phrases such as: "Are you hurt?" and "Is everyone out?"

Thousands of fire safety leaflets have also been printed in Polish and distributed throughout Lancashire.