FRIENDS, parents and residents in Easingwold are being urged to support an appeal to improve the North Yorkshire town's primary school.

Work is already under way to build new classrooms, toilet accommodation and staff facilities at a cost of £256,000.

Most of this cash has been raised from the Government, from North Yorkshire County Council, from school funds and from building firm Persimmon, which is behind new housing developments in the area. But £15,000 still needs to be raised and the school needs help from the public.

A fundraising committee has been established comprising members of the governors, PTA and staff. It is being chaired by governor Tim Madgwick, the organiser is governor Andrea Bell and also involves Diane Clarke and Sally Reel.

The appeal was launched with the unveiling of a totaliser which will be used to measure the fundraising as it progresses.

Head teacher Vanessa Huws Jones said other improvements would also include updating the school's information communication technology and work on the infant playground and adventure playground.

"All these improvements will make sure that the school provides a modern, healthy and safe environment for children now and in the future as they grow and learn.

"We are launching this appeal to ask our community to help us with our vision for the school."

She said many people in the town had a connection with the school, whether they had seen their children or grandchildren attend, been there themselves or wanted to support their local community school.

A list of events have been organised from June until December which include:

Buy A Brick Appeal - forms available from school

Sponsored cycle ride on June 30

Sponsored Walk on September 14, a gentle walk around Easingwold with a picnic at school

Christmas party on December 7 - one for the grown-ups at the Galtres Centre

Prize draw - running throughout the autumn term with prizes.

If you want to support the appeal, send a cheque made payable to EPSCAF to Community Appeal Fund, ECPS, Thirsk Road, Easingwold, YO61 3HJ.

Updated: 11:56 Friday, April 19, 2002