SCHOOLS and playgroups in the county can draw on some extra money thanks to the novel fund-raising idea of an enterprising former teacher.

Gill Gwillam is the brains behind the creative Fun Mats project, which has already raised more than £50,000 for schools and playgroups across the country.

The mother-of-two hit on the idea of reproducing the drawings on coasters, place mats and computer mouse mats for sale to friends and family when she was a member of her daughter's school PTA committee.

Her suggestion proved to be such a success she later decided to give up teaching and form her own company, Fund-raising Matters, in association with The Coaster Company, a Malvern-based coaster manufacturer.

The companies have now joined forces and are better known as Coaster Co. UK. Ltd, which has Fund-raising Matters as a division.

"Fun Mats have tremendous parent appeal and make excellent presents for friends and family," said Mrs Gwillam.

"Furthermore, the project helps children to develop their art skills and their schools benefit from a valuable fund-raising opportunity.

"Children who take part in the Fun Mats are asked to design a colourful, coaster-size, picture using paint, felt tip pens or wax crayons."

The drawing is then reproduced as a coaster and returned to the participating school.

Parents can buy the original coaster, additional coasters and other personalised products.

"Our recommended selling prices allow the organisers to make a profit on every product sold," she said. "Original coasters are sent to parents on a sale or return basis. But the return of unwanted coasters is minimal.

"I think it's very important that schools can raise money out of this as well. Some schools have made £200 and others have made £2,000."

Further details on the Fun Mats fund-raising art project are available from Gill Gwillam, Fund-raising Matters, Unit 2, The Park, Spring Lane South, Malvern, Worcestershire, WR14 1AQ,or call 01684 893842.