A FUND-RAISING campaign to pay for a new minibus for a special needs school in the Tyne Valley is close to reaching its target.

The appeal was launched a year ago by the Friends of Hexham Priory School, a group of parents and others with an interest in the welfare of the long-established school.

It caters for pupils with severe, profound and multiple learning difficulties, aged between two and 19.

Despite the challenges posed by the coronavirus pandemic over the past 12 months, bids for capital funding have been complemented by various sources.

And this week, the school's headteacher Liz Davison said the target was now within reach for the bus, which will cost between £30,000 and £40,000.

"We've been overwhelmed by the support we've received," she said. "A lot of people have made a big effort on our behalf and we are really grateful."

Liz said that Coun. Cath Homer, who represents Hexham East on Northumberland County Council, had made a contribution from her council member's fund.

In additon, some of the schools pupils had raised amounts of over £1,000 thanks the support of family and friends.

Creative students turned their daily exercises during the recent half term into sponsored walks, runs, and other activities.

Hexham Priory School usually runs three minibuses to ensure its students can access out-of-school learning which are crucial to the curriculum, including hydrotherapy and swimming.

While activities have been somewhat curtailed during the pandemic, the new minibus is vital to replacing one which went off the road last year, and restoring the school's fleet.

Liz added: "We are incredibly proud of all of our students, for all of their efforts. They understand that we need transport for various parts of the curriculum and residentials. This is something to look forward to beyond the pandemic and is vital for the future. The Friends of Hexham Priory School, Coun. Cath Homer and the whole community have done a great job."

The school said that anyone wishing to make a contribution to the fund-raising would be welcome to do so, either by contacting Hexham Priory School by telephone, or via the Friends of Hexham Priory School.

Both the school and the Friends have pages on Facebook where more information can be found. It has been a busy year for the school, which has remained open for the benefit of its students and their families.