A special school in Oldham has been "amazed" with the generosity of businesses and families as it raises money for a new minibus.

Last week, all of the students at Hollinwood Academy's primary and secondary schools took part in a walk for the cause.

The school, which provides education for children and young people with a diagnosis of autism spectrum condition and speech, language, and communication needs, was in need of a new bus to support the children's outdoor education.

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All 275 of the school's students currently access outdoor education once a week, but to sustain this, a new bus is needed.

Now, the school has raised £8,600 and is continuing to receive donations.

Laura Millard, headteacher at Hollinwood Academy, said: "The children, young people and staff have walked over 100 miles and I think we had some tired Key Stage 4 students on Thursday as they walked from Uppermill back to school, 10.6 miles.

"Even the general public, as they were walking through Lydgate, donated to our sponsored walk.

Laura Millard, right, with Cllr Mohon Ali, cabinet member for Education and Skills at Oldham CouncilLaura Millard, right, with Cllr Mohon Ali, cabinet member for Education and Skills at Oldham Council (Image: Oldham Council)

"A massive thank you goes to Mr Heap and his team for organising and coordinating the event.

"A huge well done to our amazing children and young people for taking part in the event but the biggest gratitude goes to you our families, community and the sponsors. Without your support, this event would not have been possible – thank you.

"We are still in the process of collecting and counting the money and I know some families are still bringing this in but we are amazed already with the total.

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"We as a school and you as families know how important outdoor education is for all of our students and we are overwhelmed with your generosity and my heartfelt thanks goes to you all.

"Once we have the final total we will certainly be sharing and celebrating this wide and far."

Hollinwood Academy also thanked businesses who have supported the initiative, including Ryder and Dutton, Bennett Brothers Metal Recycling, Russell Kenyon Painting and Decorating, JBA Globe Scaffolding Hire, Charleswood Fitted Bedrooms and Home studies and Insul-Eight Environmental Ltd.