CHILDREN gave up part of their weekend to help raise money to improve security after a series of arson attacks on a school's minibuses.
An appeal was launched by Weston Coyney Junior School, in Princess Drove, in October after three of their vehicles were targeted in the space of three months.
The incidents left the school with no way of taking pupils on trips.
Staff managed to get a replacement minibus at a discounted price of �8,000 but they now need a garage to store it securely at the site.
On Saturday, a group of Year Six youngsters helped at the school's PTFA's annual car wash, with all the money collected going towards the fund.
A garage is expected to cost �6,000 and the PTFA has raised half the amount.
Drivers were asked to pay �2 to have their car washed and over the course of two hours, �140 was raised.
Group member and organiser Paul Glover, of Forsbrook, said: "The children were really enthusiastic and we were fortunate to have people choosing to pay more than �2."
Pupil Hannah Stokes, from Weston Coyney, was among those who helped out.
The 10-year-old said: "I wanted to help because we really need the money."
Parent Chris Aston, of Weston Coyney, also lent a hand.
The 37-year-old Bentley Motors worker, who also runs his own business installing aerials, said: "I like to help where I can when it comes to fund-raising because the school is so great with my son Oliver.
"It's a bit demoralising when something like what happened to the minibuses takes place on your own turf."
Tracey Finney, secretary of the PTFA and the school's community governor, said: "We are really pleased with the amount we raised because it is the best we have done with a car wash.
"We were in absolute disbelief when we walked on to the playground and found the last minibus had been set on fire.
"We couldn't understand why anyone would do it. Our new one is parked off-site but we need a garage to keep it here securely. It's not just used for school trips. It is available for community use and is a valuable asset."
Headteacher Julie Nevitt said: "The car wash was an important fund-raiser for us. I'd like to thank everyone involved for their donations and support."
Anyone who would like to support the garage appeal can send a cheque, made payable to the Weston Coyney Junior School PTFA.
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