AN expanding school near Worcester has appealed for the community's help in its bid to build two new classrooms.

The River School in Fernhill Heath, between Worcester and Droitwich, plans to convert existing some of its garages and stables into offices and new classrooms for its senior pupils.

It has urged members of the public and businesses to get involved by donating materials, machinery, skills, finance or labour or offering sponsorship. The planning application is being considered by Wychavon District Council.

Headteacher Tim Crow said he hoped the ambitious conversion project could take place in the summer.

"With the support of the school and local community we could realise this project ready for the new school year in September," he said.

"Many hands make light work and a large number volunteers from parents and volunteers in the community are willing to help out with the project this summer."

The school, which has been at the Oakfield House site in Droitwich Road for 20 years, is run by the Worcester Chris-tian Education Trust.

Graham Coyle, senior member of the school's management team, said the site is listed, which had placed limitations on changes that can be made to it.

The school has about 150 children from nursery age through to senior students. It had a second building in Barbourne, Worcester, before relocating its Brook School nursery and infants department to the Fernhill Heath site last summer. The historic Oakfield House includes a Georgian manor house, outbuildings and gardens. Anyone who wants to help by offering materials or sponsorship can call Mr Crow at the school on 01905 457047.