Stateside coup for student Chris

A former QEMS pupil is preparing to fly to America for two years to carry out research work at university.

Twenty-three-year-old Christopher Rayner, of Manor Lane, Harlaston, leaves for Ohio State University in October, where his work will range from agriculture to medicine.

He is one of only three post-graduate in Britain to win the prestigious SERC/NATO Fellowship this year.

Christopher gained a BSc honours degree in Chemistry at Liverpool University and is continuing to study there for his PhD.

"He's really looking forward to the work," said his proud mum, Mrs Valerie Rayner. "He's also planning to do some touring and see as much of America as he can. Hopefully we will be able to go over and see him."

"Music takes up a lot of his spare time. He plays trumpet in the university's Glenn Miller Band and is hoping to get involved with some big bands over there," she added.