STAFF and pupils came together at a special school to raise vital funds for a new sensory room.

Evergreen Primary School, in Bishop Auckland, took part in a 24 hour 'bounceathon' which saw a school member at any given time bounce on a toy – from a trampoline to a pogo stick.

The idea came from teacher Sophie Hartshorn who along with the other staff, decided they would commit to raising £20,000 needed to redevelop the school's sensory room.

Miss Hartshorn said: "Many of the children are taught in a very sensory way.

"The sensory room is important as it is a place which provides a rich learning environment from the children.

"We decided to do the 'bounceathon' as wanted to involve all of the children and it was something staff could carry on through the night."

The staff have been fundraising for the cause since September and have raised £8,000 so far.

Deputy head teacher, Faye James, said: "Our children have a range of sensory needs so we'd like to introduce new equipment to benefit them –we'd like to thank everyone who donated."

For information on how to donate call Evergreen Primary School on 01388-459721