BIOLOGY students from Warrington are busy fundraising for a once-in-a-lifetime trip to the Amazon Rainforest.

The 15 a-level students from Priestley College are looking forward to conducting vital research during their stay which could help uncover the rainforest's future.

Among them is Katie Bartrop, whose dream is to work in biological research.

The college pupil said: "When I heard about this trip I knew I just had to go because it described exactly what I want to do in life.

"I’ve always been fascinated by the rainforest so this is an amazing opportunity for me."

Priestley’s team of researchers will be flying to Peru in July and will live on riverboats during their stay.

Data they collect will be used by Operation Wallacea to assess changes to the Amazon’s ecosystem.

Their efforts will help support the indigenous Cocama Indians who have been affected by extreme weather conditions including flooding and drought.

Chloé Green, a former pupil at The Heath, said: "It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience for me.

"I’ve heard we will be catching piranhas to measure their teeth and counting the numbers of macaws in the rainforest."

The trip will cost each student more than £2,000 so they are now busy fundraising, as well as receiving pledges from nearby businesses.

Tutor Louise Naidu, who is organising the trip, said: "The students are working hard to make sure this dream becomes a reality and have already achieved a lot.

"If any other businesses would consider sponsoring the students in some way we would really appreciate it."

If your business would be interested in sponsoring the students please email l.naidu@priestley.ac.uk.