PUPILS at a Bolton school are enjoying stimulating light, sound and massage therapy thanks to a donation from a national gas supplier.

Youngsters at Green Fold School in Highfield Road are making use of special sensory stimulation equipment and a range of new outdoor playground toys.

The school has developed a purpose-built sound and light room with bubble tubes, fibre optics and a massage bed. New outdoor activity equipment includes tricycles, go-karts, scooters and ride-on mini diggers.

Funding for the improvements came from a community funding initiative run by gas giant Transco, who heard that the school was in need of support through employee Ann Nelson, whose seven-year-old son Connor is a pupil at Green Fold.

She said: "When I broke the news about our donation to the school governors meeting, they were absolutely delighted.

"This specialist equipment doesn't come cheap, but it makes such a difference to the range of activities that the school can now provide for pupils for many years to come.

"Just to see the smiles on the children's faces as they play and experience the different sensations is a joy."

Deputy Headteacher Liz Templeman said: "We are so grateful for this donation, as it's helped us to provide some much-needed equipment which will really benefit our children.

"Sensory stimulation is really important for so many of our pupils. They have a wide variety of special needs and I know that this equipment will be in constant use. It makes a huge difference to our school and our children to have friends in the community."