A SCHOOL head has issued a cash plea to parents to help pay for essential books and equipment for his pupils.

Park Primary School, Colne, will hold a week of sponsored events after the school holidays in a bid to raise £3,000.

Head Andrew McIlroy has written to parents explaining why the cash-strapped school needs their help. In his letter he said: "I try really hard not to ask for help with money, but this year's budget cut is preventing us from providing the children with what we feel they need to meet the demands of the National Curriculum, particularly in terms of extra reading books and design technology materials.

"Given the state of the budget and the amount of money we need, a sponsored event seems to be the best solution."

Among the activities planned for the first week back in lessons are a sponsored bounce for the infants and a sponsored walk for the older children. Sponsor forms have been sent to parents so they can drum up funds over the fortnight break. The children are due back at school on September 22. Park recognises it is not the first school to have to ask parents for financial help in providing essential equipment for children because of budget cuts. The problem is a long-standing one.

Six years ago the school held a similar sponsored event to raise £2,000 for a new maths scheme.

Mr McIlroy was away on holiday and not able to comment on the funds problem.

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