ST Nicholas' School in Chippenham came a step closer to realising its ambition to create a sensory room when Wavin Plastics handed over a cheque for £500.

Company representatives Peter Curtis and Helen Stone visited the school in Malmesbury Road, to present the cash at an assembly.

The school provides specialist care and education for youngsters aged between five and 18 who have either severe or profound learning difficulties.

Many of the pupils also have other disabilities such as autism, cerebral palsy and epilepsy.

The school began fundraising six months ago in the hope of finding £11,000 for the sensory room and has nearly reached its target.

Teacher Celia Feane, who has co-ordinated the project, said pupils were eagerly awaiting the new room. "The technology that is now available for this type of resource enables children to be able to exercise a degree of independence, by controlling elements such as lights, sound, vibration and wind," she said.

"This is extremely motivating for children who find they can now make their own choices."

The room will also be available for more able children for movement, drama and IT activites.