A STATE-of-the-art minibus has been presented to Welburn Hall, near Kirkbymoorside, by The Lords Taverners.

After the school raised £12,500, The Taverners, the cricketing charity based at Lord’s Cricket Ground in London, provided the balance, said headteacher Hazel Smith.

The school’s parent support group organised a host of fundiraising events, including garden parties, quiz nights and a murder-mystery night as well as giving personal donations to enable the scheme to go ahead, said Mrs Smith.

“Everyone worked so hard because there was such determination to see us get this lovely bus.

“It will mean so much to the children.”

It was handed over to Mrs Smith, staff and pupils by Judy Haggas, a former chairman of the Lady Taverners who praised the school for its achievements.

Today Welburn Hall, a former country mansion, has seen its numbers increase from 39 to 54 in three years. There will be a further increase in September to 63 said Mrs Smith.

Also at the presentation ceremony were Andrew Terry, assistant director of children and young people’s services at North Yorkshire County Council, and the Rev Andrew de Smett, who blessed the vehicle.

Welburn Hall is a county council- maintained school for children and young people with a wide range of special educational needs.

Mrs Smith said: “Welburn is an amazing place. The staff are so caring and committed.

“We strive to provide a curriculum to meet the needs of each individual pupil.

“It is a great place to learn and grow – I feel privileged to work there.

“Having the Lord Taverners’ bus will be a wonderful asset to the children and we are grateful for all the support we have been given by so many people.”