ROSE Hill Special School in Worcester has received a grant of £5,000 to help fund a new soft play area.

Pupils at the school have a wide range of physical, sensory and learning disabilities.

And the new area, which is currently under construction, will provide them with a safe, interactive place to play.

It will feature an infinity tunnel and a fibre-optic den designed to stimulate the children's visual and auditory responses.

The grant has come from Ronald McDonald Children's Charities (RMCC) which last year donated more than £400,000 to around 200 children's organisations throughout the UK.

Angela Broadbent, head of the lower school, said she was delighted to receive the grant.

"The new play area will make a positive difference to all the children, increasing their independence and freedom of movement in a totally safe environment," she said.

"Our fund-raising committee, the League of Friends, have welcomed the grant from RMCC which will make a real difference to the children's learning experiences.

RMCC spokeswoman, Jacqueline Moore, said the group was dedicated to providing grants to help children with special needs enjoy a full and fun life.

"I am thrilled that we have been able to contribute by presenting the Rose Hill School with this grant for their play area which will provide hours of fun and learning opportunities for the children," she said.