TEACHERS at a special school are hoping city businessmen will dig deep into their pockets to help pay for a new soft play area.

Angela Broadbent, of Rose Hill Special School has launched a campaign to raise £11,000 to pay for new foam and sensory equipment.

She has sent out dozens of letters appealing for help for the project which she says will greatly enhance the lives of pupils.

Mrs Broadbent, who is the head of the lower school in Windermere Drive, Warndon, said she didn't want to depend on the parents for help because they do so much already.

"The foam in the existing play area has been there for about 15 years and does not fit correctly," said Mrs Broadbent.

"It is out of date and there's very little sensory equipment.

"We are anxious to find new financial sources to fund the project."

The school has received a quote from Toys For The Handicapped, which has created a tailor-made soft play environment for the school.

This includes wall cushions, a soft play slide, a fibre optic light source, musical squares, an infinity tunnel, a huddle cuddle cushion and feelie, therapy and physio balls.

"We just want a safe environment for our children in which they can move freely," explained Mrs Broadbent.