AN appeal to raise money for a playground for disabled children has received another boost.

Lexden Springs School, which cares for children with special needs, is aiming to raise £100,000 to build play facilities at the school in Halstead Road, Colchester.

Now the 100,000 Smiles appeal, which is backed by the Gazette, has been boosted by a £4,000 donation from charity group King Coel Kittens.

The money is part of the proceeds from the popular fireworks display at Castle Park in Colchester.

Kittens chairwoman and secretary Jackie Bowis said: "We raise money from the community event to give back tot he community.

"The 100,000 Smiles appeal is a worthwhile cause and something the children will certainly benefit from.

"The school currently has an old bit of land and few play facilities but the money will enable them to buy a specially adapted swing for the children."

The appeal aims to raise money to pay for a play area to be transformed with equipment which can be used by disabled children.

There will be special swings which support the children, a roundabout which is appropriate for wheelchair users, a wobbly bridge to help the children improve their balance and agility as well as a range of sensory equipment.

The fireworks displayed raised a total of £15,000 and the committee is now looking at how to allocate the remainder of the money.