GENEROUS donors have brought smiles to the faces of children at a Colchester special school.

Lexden Springs School has launched the 100,000 Smiles appeal to raise £100,000 for a play area.

It hopes to transform a neglected school field into a multi-functional area which can be used by the children who have severe learning difficulties.

And the campaign received a boost from money raised at the school’s summer fete and a number of donations.

Hundreds of visitors attended the school’s fete in Halstead Road.

Attractions included traditional games such as Bash the Rat and scores of homemade cakes were sold.

The event raised £2,000 and a kindhearted benefactor also sent £500 anonymously to the school.

The children at the school have a range of learning difficulties but their health and well-being would benefit from a purpose-built play area.

The campaign, which is supported by the Gazette, aims to raise £100,000 for a play area which would feature swings and a roundabout which can be used by disabled children including those in wheelchairs.

For the more able children, there would be a rope climbing frame.

A bubble tunnel and wobble board would assist the children with their agility and balance as would a wavy bridge.

Acting head teacher Simon Wall said: “The response has been amazing.

“We were blown away by the cheque which was sent in anonymously and have been overwhelmed by the kindness and generosity of people who have contributed.”

Charlotte Foxley, who is chairman of the PTA, said: “We would like to thank everyone who came to the fete and to those who donated raffle prizes and to Impact Signs. We are so grateful.”

* To contribute to the fundraising appeal, send a cheque to the Lexden Springs Appeal Fund at Lexden Springs School, Halstead Road, Colchester, CO3 9AB.
If you are fundraising for them, contact them via email at appealfund@lexdensprings.essex.sch.uk.

* If you are fundraising for the 100,000 Smiles appeal, please contact wendy.brading@nqe.com