A FUNDRAISING appeal to build an extensive healthy play and wellbeing trail at a Stourport primary school has smashed its second phase target thanks to a generous £8,000 donation from a local business.

Tony Tidmarsh, chairman of the town’s outdoor play equipment manufacturer Brave Toys, said online sales rocketed during last summer’s lockdown and that staff wanted to share their luck.

The donation not only means phase two can be installed at St Bartholomew’s CE Primary School in Areley Kings, but some of the final phase of the PTA-led project can also go ahead earlier than expected.

Headteacher Ian James said: “We’re thrilled the appeal has been given such a tremendous boost.

"With £9,600 now available we can afford a pick-up-sticks play frame with commando ropes and choose items from the third phase.

“To receive this amazing windfall just as we were breaking up for Christmas was overwhelming – the best festive gift we could receive.

“We are truly grateful to Brave Toys as it means so much to us to have this outdoor equipment, which is designed to challenge and enhance the fitness levels and health of our children, whilst having fun.”

Mr James added: “Our PTA is working incredibly hard to raise money for this project, which also attracted a £15, 000 grant for the running track from rugby’s charity The Wooden Spoon, to enable the £24,000 first phase featuring an activity frame and daily mile running track to be installed last September.”

Mr Tidmarsh is also chairman of TFH, makers of specialist toys for children with disabilities, originally a division of the former well-known TP Activity Toys.

He said his companies had been “very fortunate” despite Covid-19 and the problems created by Brexit.

TFH, which exports 20 percent of its production to Europe, prepared for Brexit and the prospect of shipping problems by opening a branch in Sweden to supply European customers.

Mr Tidmarsh said: “We have been lucky and decided to share our luck locally.

"Outdoor play is close to our hearts so funding an addition to the play area at St Bart’s seems very appropriate. We hope the children will enjoy and develop self-confidence through play for many years to come.”