A SPECIAL school in Taunton has launched a massive fundraising appeal to improve its hydrotherapy facilities. 

Selworthy School has launched a £1million appeal to improve its 20-year-old hydrotherapy pool. 

The pool is a vital facilities at the school, but it started to show its age and has been out-of-action since September. 

It is used for pain reduction, strengthening of muscles and improves self esteem of the students. 

The original pool was built when the school catered for just 40 learners, the school now has 96. 

Fundraising lead Cameron Merry said: “Our upper school is moving to a new, purpose built site in 2019, while our lower school will be remaining on the current site.

"Our challenge now is to make sure that the facilities here are as good as the facilities at the new site.

"The benefits of hydrotherapy are truly life changing and the impact is far reaching."

The new pool won't just be for the students, as outside of school hours it will be available to hire in the community. 

Mr Merry added: "We know that there are so many people who do not attend Selworthy School who will benefit from the facility. That is why our plan is for the facility to be used by the school during the day and outside of these hours the community will be able to hire the pool.

"We know we need to raise £1million to re build this facility and are incredibly lucky to have such a supportive community. We are now looking for businesses to support our appeal.

"You can make us your charity of the year or organise fundraising events in aid of Selworthy School. We are also looking to establish mutually beneficial corporate partnerships for this appeal.”

The launch event was attended by businesses and families. 

Patron of the Splash Appeal, Gideon Amos, said: "Taunton is, and has always been a rich and diverse hub for schools and learning, at its heart Selworthy provides a vital role that is second to none in the care it provides - it is a privilege to work alongside such dedicated staff, parents and governors.

"Local businesses are already showing interest in supporting this much needed facility that will benefit hundreds of families and local people - but most important of all providing hydrotherapy can develop muscles and reduce the pain that young students have to put up with on a daily basis.

"I hope everyone will dig deep to support this fantastic initiative."

To donate to the appeal text SWIM11 £5 to 70070.

For more information email cmerry@selworthy.somerset.sch.uk.