Autistic children at Codding-ton Court School, near Ledbury, are hoping to benefit from plans to improve playground facilities.

The West Midlands Autistic Society has submitted a planning application to Herefordshire Council to create more playground space, add a double swing to the existing playground and create a cycle track.

The application also includes the installation of a gazebo, pergolas and planting boxes in a covered area.

Bob Candlin, chief fundraiser for the school, said: "The cycle track will not only help the children to learn to ride a bike, but will also teach the pupils about road safety and the Green Cross Code.

"With the school being located in a rural environment, this does not give the children the opportunity to learn the necessary skills required for crossing roads."

The school, which opened in February 2001, is a specially-designed residential and day care centre for autistic children, and currently caters for 28 residential and 3 day pupils, aged 9-18.

The school is open for 50 weeks of the year and offers the children lessons with a modified curriculum in areas including numeracy, literacy, history and art. Children can also benefit from the school's on-site gym and pool, and a range of activities are organised, including shopping, going to the cinema and ten-pin bowling.