THE Friends of Middleton Tyas primary school have raised £4,000 to help maintain four full-time teaching staff.

Eighteen months ago, the completion of a £50,000 extension ensured that the small North Yorkshire school would be able to expand as pupil numbers increased.

In September, for the first time in the school's history, the term kicked off with four full-time classes and four whole-time equivalent teachers.

However, in order to maintain new staffing levels extra money is needed to prop up the school's budget.

"That is where we step in," said Mr Ian Clarke, chairman of the Friends of Middleton Tyas primary school. "We have an active group of parents who organise lots of fundraising events to buy the school extra equipment it needs.

"But out of the money raised last year, £4,000 is going straight to help pay for the extra teaching hours to keep the four classes running."

The school, which has 81 pupils, has also received £600 of early years equipment and £700 of maths, science and English equipment from the Friends this school year.

Mr John Ridley, head teacher, said: "Without the Friends' help we would definitely be struggling."