Minibus donation helps County Durham school pupils to 'make many happy memories'

School children with medical needs and complex learning difficulties can "make many happy memories" after their minibus was replaced.

Villa Real School in Consett, County Durham, received a donation of £57,000 from the Mark Benevolent Fund for the vehicle, after the Mark Master Masons of Durham applied for the funding on its behalf.

Villa Real is a mixed day school for children and young people aged from two to 19 who have severe, profound, medical and complex learning difficulties, with some pupils also diagnosed as autistic or with Cerebral Palsy.

READ MORE: Gabby Logan's net worth, Newcastle United link and famous husband after Match of the Day statement

READ MORE: The scary Lewis Miley message after Newcastle United star gives Eddie Howe headache

The school's previous minibus had reached the end of its life and the cost of replacing it was significant due to the special adaptations needed. This prompted the Mark Master Masons of Durham to apply to the organisation's national fund, which aims to provide rapid assistance to worthy causes.

Jill Bowes, headteacher at Villa Real School, said: "The minibus enables pupils with complex learning difficulties and limited mobility to attend enrichment activities and integrate into our communities in ways that would otherwise be impossible. This includes taking part in volunteering and social action projects that help to boost their confidence.

"We're very grateful to our local freemasons and the Mark Benevolent Fund for covering the cost of our new minibus."

Members of the Mark Masons of Durham were joined by Graeme Hutchinson, of the Mark Benevolent Fund, at an official presentation event at the school.

Graeme said: "After assessing the application and learning about the positive difference the minibus would make, we were only too happy to help. The presentation of this minibus has been possible due to the amazing and continual support and donations of the Mark Masons."

Durham Mark Provincial Grand Master, David Hanson, added: "This new minibus will allow pupils to get out and about and make many happy memories. We are proud to have played a part in securing this much-needed vehicle for the school."