LOST dinner money is a thing of the past at a hi-tech school in Bury.

Now at lunchtime, pupils simply place their finger on a special scanner and the software matches the print with its database.

Parrenthorn High in Prestwich has become the first school in Bury to use the £25,000 biometric payment system for pupils instead of cash.

The first cashless payment systems in Bury were introduced at three schools in 2001, when pupils used swipe cards to pay for meals.

Pupils even register points for making healthy choices and are rewarded for healthy eating.

Headteacher Mick Fitzgerald said: "It is something that I have wanted for a long time.

"The technology is robust and it is running smoothly. The children are also very excited.

"It is the right of all parents to opt in or out but most have seen the benefits."

The government-funded scheme will be introduced at eight more secondary schools in Bury by 2008.