An all-star team has been lined up to take control of sports at a school which faced closure three months ago.

Pupils at Newlands School in Seaford could train with Brighton and Hove Albion players after manager Mark McGhee, a former Scotland international, was asked to join the board of governors.

Businessman Mike Holland, the new joint owner of the independent school, has also asked his friend John Robinson, a former Albion, Charlton and Wales player, to become the football coach from September.

Hove-based golfer Michael Campbell, who won last year's US Open championship, and former England and Sussex cricketer Colin Wells will also be asked to make appearances.

Mr Holland, whose 15-year-old son Stefan is a pupil at the school, said: "We wanted to raise the profile of the school and encourage growth and prosperity. The children are very excited about it and we are looking forward to the new term."

Mr McGhee said there was "every chance" the Seagulls would get involved with coaching.

He said: "I have to get to know the people there and find out what they want from me and how I can help. My brief will be sporting that's not just football. I will be someone who will help them find people like John to get involved."

He added: "It is something new for me and Mike is very excited about it. I am just pleased to be part of it and I am looking forward to seeing the school develop."

John Robinson, who was named Welsh Player of the Year in 2000, will also be running a football summer school in August.

Headteacher Oliver Price said: "The pupils know about John Robinson and they are thrilled but of course the real excitement will be when he's actually here.

"There is huge enthusiasm and it is wonderful so many fine people are going to be involved."

Mr Holland said Monty Python actress Carol Cleveland and former Dollar and Bucks Fizz frontman David Van Day will also help out in the drama department.

Mr Holland and another parent, John Summer, stepped in with a multi-million pound rescue package to save the debtridden school which closed for two weeks in April.

Last week a settlement was reached which will take the school out of administration and pay off a percentage of the money owed to staff.

Currently based at Newlands Court in Sutton Avenue, the school is on track to move back to the main Eastbourne Road campus in September with at least 120 pupils on the register.