A GARSTON secondary school has received a healthy kick-start to its appeal for a new music block, thanks to a donation from developers Linden Homes.

Members of the fundraising committee at Parmiter's School in High Elms Lane were delighted when approached by the Harefield-based firm, wishing to donate £10,000 towards the project.

The new block, due to be situated at the heart of the school's main building, is an integral feature of its Jubilee Arts Project which is designed to mark the school's 25 years of existence, and which will improve the facilities for youngsters studying art, drama and music both at the school and within the local community.

The development, estimated to cost £1 million, will include an orchestral room, two large music classrooms, six practice rooms and a state-of-the-art recording studio.

Headteacher Mr Brian Coulshed, who looks forward to officially launching the school's fundraising appeal in October, said: "This significant donation has set our fundraising off to a great start.

"We are looking to start building in June of next year, and look forward to inviting Linden Homes to visit the music suite once work is completed."

The Jubilee Arts Project has already attracted a considerable amount of interest from groups and organisations within the local community and the support of a number of popular arts figures including Sir Tim Rice and Fiona Dollman, who have agreed to be patrons.