CELEBRITIES are giving their backing to Sussex's biggest-ever schools promotion.

The Argus is offering an entire class of 35 the chance of a dream trip to Disneyland Paris and a sightseeing trip around the French capital.

We are challenging every school to collect as many tokens from the Argus as they can over six weeks.

Schools will be divided into six categories, depending on size. The winning school will then decide which class takes the trip to the magical theme park.

Hove actor Chris Ellison, star of police drama The Bill, is hoping one of his two children is in the winning class. Chris said: "I am very supportive of this competition.

"Both my children go to school in the Brighton and Hove area. My nine-year-old daughter Francesca goes to Summerhill Junior and my son Louis goes to Cardinal Newman school. I just hope one of them wins the trip."

Sports presenter Des Lynam has also pledged his support to the competition.

The Match Of The Day presenter, who lives in Angmering, said: "I wish schoolchildren across Sussex the best of luck in winning what sounds to be a splendid prize.

"I would encourage schools to get involved in this campaign and am sure the winning class will enjoy the holiday of a lifetime."

Argus columnist Derek Jameson recommended the trip after enjoying a visit to Disneyland Paris himself last year.

Derek said: "My wife and I took our eight-year-old goddaughter Michelle to Disneyland Paris last year and we had a marvellous time.

"Michelle had an absolutely knock-out time and it was an unforgettable experience.

"The great thing about Disneyland Paris is that once you are inside it's all there waiting for you to enjoy. I would urge all schools to take part and get registering straight away, for this is a chance not to be missed."

The winners will travel to Paris by Eurostar and spend three nights at a hotel on the Disney site.

The park has three themed areas, Discoveryland, Fantasyland and Adventureland, packed with rides and attractions.

The trip is being sponsored by American Express, Southern Water and Pavilion Computers.

Runner-up prizes include computers, software and school equipment.

And entering couldn't be easier - all you have to do is collect tokens published daily in the Argus from April 19.

When all the tokens are in, the class that has collected the most will be off to France.

The latest news can be found on our website at www.thisisbrighton.co.uk

Co-ordinator Laura Digweed is available to answer any queries about the promotion on 001273 544722 or 001444 235100.

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