Funds raised for play area (From Gazette Series)

Funds raised for play area

HUNDREDS of people enjoyed an event at the weekend to celebrate and raise funds for Bournstream playground - the play and picnic site for special needs children, near Wotton-under-Edge.

There was standing room only at Blue Coat Primary School on Saturday for a packed programme of 21 items, including songs, pieces of music, readings and drama.

All performers were local, both adults and young people, including pupils of both The British and Blue Coat Primary Schools.

A joint choir from both schools opened the concert with 'Drop in the Ocean', symbolising the start of the Bournstream project which has gathered momentum and grown into a valued resource.

Quite a high percentage of the children using the play facility are autistic in some way, and feedback has confirmed how they can find peace, space and challenge in such an 'oasis'.

Conventional facilities cannot always meet such needs, inhibiting families from being themselves, being together and able to relax.

Bob Cannock, father of a current play site user, said: "Bournstream is an environment that is safe and secure, in a wonderful setting where you can be sure whoever you meet will be understanding - and it's equally appealing to able bodied brothers and sisters."

The winner of the adult raffle was a former user of the play site who still returns to help with the annual spring clean. He won an introductory lesson at Bristol and Gloucestershire Gliding Club at Nympsfield.

Barbara Saxton, who founded the Bournstream Trust to share her land, said: "Everyone has been so generous, from the school through to our prize donors, the many performers and audience alike."

The concert raised £814, which will help maintain and enhance the play area.

The new Bournstream season opens from Easter 2005 - enquiries can always be made on 01453 843630.