CHILDREN whose beautiful reading garden was trashed by vandals are all smiles again thanks to a generous donation to repair the damage — and make the popular space even better.

Youngsters at St James CE Primary in Farnworth were left saddened as to why their school was being targeted in this way — and by, it is believed, ex-pupils.

After The Bolton News reported on the vandalism, which happened over half-term and again the week after children returned to school, two firms stepped forward to help.

Westhoughton-based Stateside Foods donated £800 to replace damaged items and to buy more books for children to read in the area. Harmony Blinds also donated books to the school.

Headteacher Lisa Belfield said: “Receiving such generosity from the community when we are saddened and frustrated really lifts the mood of the staff, pupils and school.

“This tells the important story of not being defeated and how much it means to the children to know that there are so many kind people in our community that really care about the pupils of St James.”

"We have been thrilled and overwhelmed with the kindness and support we have received from the community and the parents.

“Thank you so much to those who have donated now, and also those who donated and raised money last year. The children are really excited about buying some new resources and books for the garden.”

Children were furious about the damage caused, but are happy that people care about the garden as much as they do.

Pupils at the school raised money to create the space and were supported by the community, including former pupils.

The Eco-team which helped design the garden, said they were “so happy and excited about the donation because we are going to have a nice garden”.

Pupil Bailey said:”I feel quite upset because of all the work Eco-team put into it. I am happy about the donation because somebody cares about us."