Hotel checks in to help school

The cash came from the Hilton Hotel chain's Hilton in the Community Found-ation, and was given to staff at Norfolk Park Special School.

The school was badly damaged twice in the June floods, but thanks to a huge effort by staff and other volunteers, it was shut for only two weeks.

But the deluge destroyed six specialist chairs which cost between 800 and 1,400 each and are needed by the pupils who have multiple learning difficulties.

"The Hilton offered their help, and as a result we have been able to replace the chairs immediately, without having to wait for the insurance to come through," said headteacher Pam Coleman.

She added: "The school is up and running again though it will be two years before all of the repairs are completed.

"Our staff acted heroically and helped to prevent even worse damage. We even had the Army helping, digging trenches in the park to divert the water."

The school hall was put out of action, but repairs continued all through the summer.

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