Minister of Education Randolph Horton teamed up with Cool Cat the mascot to launch Bermuda Spelldown 2007 yesterday.

Children in years P4 to P6 have been preparing for the competition since the beginning of the school year.

"With 22 students set to enter the semi-final round next week, Bermuda Spelldown promises to be as exciting as those previously held," said the Minister, introducing Cool Cat to the public.

The Ministry of Education, Sports and Recreation sponsors the competition which aims to build children's vocabularies in a fun and interesting way. The initiative was established in 2004 by the Bermuda College as part of its 3oth anniversary celebrations.

Top prize this year is a Disney Cruise for four. The latest round of the competition kicks off on Tuesday January 23 at Harrington Sound Primary School.