A PRIMARY school in Barry is a step closer to building an all-weather eco lodge after the parent teacher association (PTA) received a financial boost from a housebuilder.

Barry Island Primary School PTA has been handed £1,000 by Persimmon Homes East Wales as part of its community champions scheme.

Each month the housebuilder donates up to £1,000 each to two groups or individuals.

The school garden is an integral part of children’s lessons where they learn about the environment and social responsibility.

The new lodge will mean that lessons will go ahead without disruption from the weather.

The lodge will cost £6,500, of which £3,000 has already been raised.

As well as lessons, the lodge will be used to strengthen ties with the local community by hosting events.

Coffee mornings, reading clubs, and open garden days will all be staged in the lodge, which will be built using recyclable materials.

School PTA secretary, Caroline Harris said: “The school hopes the lodge will become a focal point, encouraging people of all ages and backgrounds in the community to meet and build relations.

“We have raised £3,000 so far towards the costs so a £1,000 donation is fantastic as it will enable us to make a start on the groundworks.

“We are extremely thankful to Persimmon Homes East Wales.”

Persimmon Homes East Wales sales director, Victoria William said: “We are delighted to support Barry Island Primary School PTA.

“The new lodge promises to be an excellent addition to the school garden, both for the pupils and the local community.

“The school PTA has already done so well to raise £3,000.

"We hope our donation takes them a step closer to make the new eco lodge a reality.”