A school in Blyth for children with special educational needs is now able to convert a second train carriage after their unique library captured the imaginations of the children.
The Dales School, which was featured on last week's episode of George Clarke's Amazing Spaces, has already converted one of the carriages of a disused train into a library and a grant from the Harrison Foundation will allow them to convert another one.
In the programme from last week, George Clarke was stunned by the incredible transformation of the train, and marvelled at the work that had been done by teacher James Groundwater and other volunteers as well as the positive impact that it was clearly having on the children.
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This second carriage will be made into a Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) room, with the aim of cultivating future career aspirations alongside local businesses, in fields such as mechanics and architecture. It will also be used to teach railway safety and travel skills to children with special educational needs.
The Harrison Foundation heard about the project from local media and Blyth MP Ian Levy, and the North East based charity decided to answer The Dales School's plea for funding.
Head teacher at the Dales School, Dr Sue Fisher said: "The Dales school is extremely proud to be working with the Harrison Foundation, particularly as they have helped so many individuals to gain life experiences, this is something we are passionate about at the Dales school.
"Their community work aligns within our vision for the STEM carriage. With the Harrison Foundation as our partner, we will be able to achieve our vision and aspirations to benefit and inspire the next generation."
Blyth Valley MP Ian Levy said: "I've been really impressed with the ambition of this project and am happy to have been able to help in some small way.
"The school, and James Groundwater in particular, deserve huge credit for their persistence in making it happen and I'd like to thank all of the organisations and companies who contributed including the Harrison Foundation. It's great to have such a wonderful facility in Blyth Valley and to see it on the television."
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