A Harpenden school is appealing to residents and businesses in the town to support its latest fundraising initiative in a bid to repair its science labs.

St George’s School, in Sun Lane, is organising its first major fundraiser, The Grand Auction of Promises, in aid of its Science Lab Challenge to take place on Saturday, March 15.

The event aims to offer businesses and individuals an opportunity to promote products and services to an audience, including more than 1,300 pupils.

One of the first businesses to spot the potential of the opportunity was independent wine merchants, Rollings Wine.

Paul Rollings, from the Station Road wine merchants, said: "We have pledged to hold a wine tasting event for eight people at our shop, which will be both a fun and educational evening, giving the winning bidder and their guests the opportunity to appreciate a range of different wines.

"We see the auction as a great way to raise our profile within the local community and to hopefully welcome some potential new customers into our shop, as well as supporting a very worthy cause."

Pamela Bainbridge, development director at the school said: "We have had a programme of renovating and updating our science labs over the last few years and this will bring us just one step closer to completing the project".

Ms Bainbridge suggested other pledges including tickets to concerts or sporting events, accountancy or legal services, beauty products, restaurant vouchers, art, food, airline tickets, a tour of a company or office, the chance to meet a celebrity, new electronic equipment, hair styling, clothes, wine, driving lessons, monthly passes to a local gym, and a free MOT or service.

People interested in making a pledge should email auction@stgeorges.herts.sch.uk with details of their promise before February 14.