CHRISTMAS has come early for a Swindon centre for children with special needs.

A £14,000 gift from Zurich Financial Services will benefit the Koalas Swindon Opportunity Group for years to come.

The group works with babies and children aged up to five who have physical and learning difficulties.

It has used the windfall to buy a special computer and other equipment designed to help the 25 children who use the centre to make the most of their abilities.

Koalas co-ordinator Stephanie Hathaway said: "It is brilliant. For our children, information technology is part of the curriculum laid down by the Government, and we have to be able to provide them with this equipment.

"It helps the children to co-ordinate better and to learn."

The touch-screen computer features games centred on memory and the recognition of shapes, colours and sounds.

And touching the screen is physiotherapy in itself.

In addition, the group has used some of Zurich's money to install a sensory room, featuring everything from textured floors to noisemaking equipment.

It has also added features to its existing light sensory room, in which children learn the principle of cause and effect by controlling electronic displays on the walls and ceiling.

The formal cheque presentation was done by Zurich financial consultant Mike Conlan, who said: "The company want to support local causes like this.

"We try to link the business community and the local community, especially when it benefits children."

Swindon-based Zurich Financial Services has given away millions of pounds to charities over the years.