CELEBRITY gardener Alan Titchmarsh has opened a new outdoor learning and play area at Treloar School.

The bright and vibrant area at the Holybourne school, unveiled officially by Mr Titchmarsh last Wednesday, will provide younger students with access to an outdoor play area which stimulates the senses and encourages learning in a fun, hands-on way.

It has been specially designed with a track for students who are learning to drive their own wheelchairs, an accessible roundabout, and a large nest swing. There are sensory areas, learning areas, raised beds for growing plants and vegetables, sand and water play - all at the right height for accessibility. The area also includes a wooden shelter, ensuring the facility can be used all year round.

One staff member said: “It’s wonderful, the children are definitely enjoying the new playground. It’s a massive change to play time.”

Mr Titchmarsh had a special message for the gathered group.

“Treloar’s is an extraordinary place, filled with special people,” he said. “What goes on here is hugely revered by those who know and those who live close by. It is great that play has been introduced to real life at Treloar’s. This is a tremendous way to get everyone connected. Thank you for introducing children to the outside. Thank you to everyone who has done their bit to make this happen.”

In thanking those organisations and individuals for their generosity in enabling the new playground to be built, Lucinda Gillingham, head of fundraising development at Treloar, said: “This playground provides our physically disabled young people with fun experiential opportunities which are hugely important to their curriculum learning and play time. The playground will also be open to visiting pupils from local schools and groups where they can play alongside our students, having fun whilst learning about disability and inclusion.

“Thank you to the many generous donors who helped to make play possible for the children at Treloar’s.”

n The Treloar playground has been selected by Tesco Express stores on Anstey Lane in Alton and in Four Marks and Bordon as a candidate for the July and August Bags of Help initiative, which invites customers to vote to support projects within the community with grants from £1,000 to £4,000 – all raised from the 5p carrier bag levy.