AN army of Larkrise supporters have rallied around a parent who launched a petition of support just a few months after the death of her son, a long-term pupil at the special school.

Arnie Bell, who was born with cerebral palsy and was wheelchair bound, spent 10 happy years at the Trowbridge school before his sudden death in February, aged 13.

When his mum Linda found out that Larkrise’s future was under threat, as part of Wiltshire Council’s plans to create an extra 220 extra places for children with special education needs by 2026, she started a petition to save the school. That now has more than 4,000 signatures, on paper and online.

Mrs Bell, of Newleaze, Steeple Ashton, said: “It would be a tragedy if this brilliant special school closed.

“Larkrise is unique. People come from all over because the support and service they provide is second to none.

“Arnie went there for 10 years and he loved it. He had a wonderful relationship with the teachers, who were so attentive to his needs, and the pupils.

“Knowing how much they did for my Arnie, Larkrise has to stay open. You would never get that incredible care in a school like the one Wiltshire Council are proposing.

“Ashton Street Centre is a purpose built property which is based just a few yards from their doorstep and is perfect to help expand and save this amazing school.”

Mrs Bell, her husband Aiden, sons Scott and Logan and daughter-in-law Claire planned to donate the £1,500 raised at a celebration of Arnie’s life to buy a swing for the school, but were told there was no room for it in the playground.

“When we got told about it potentially closing, I started this petition, which is doing so well,” she said.

“Arnie had a personality that was as bright as the sun. He was high on life and he was an inspiration to all. We are Arnie’s Army and we will fight on to try and save this unique school.”

Laura Mayes, Wiltshire cabinet member for children’s services, said: “Our schools in the north of the county are full and more than full in some cases. We need at least 70 additional places by 2026 and we need to be planning that now. We have committed investment to provide these places because we need to get this right for all our children and young people with complex needs. These are decisions for now and the next 25 years, so we really appreciate how many people have got engaged with these issues.”

The petition is at www.change.org/p/help-larkrise-special-needs-school-trowbridge